Maximizing garage space and adding professional-grade capability to your home workshop has never been easier with a 4-post car lift. These robust systems are no longer exclusive to commercial garages, offering enthusiasts and DIY mechanics a safe and efficient way to store vehicles, perform maintenance, or tackle complex projects. Choosing the right model is crucial for safety and functionality.
This roundup focuses on lifts designed for home use, considering factors like lifting capacity, physical dimensions, power requirements, and included accessories. From heavy-duty models for trucks to space-saving portable options, there is a solution for nearly every garage and project need. Our list highlights ten of the best 4-post lifts available to help you make an informed decision.
The Best 4-Post Car Lifts for Your Home Garage
- APlusLift HW-8SXLT 8000LB Extra Tall Extra Long 4-Post Lift
- TRIUMPH NSS8TL 8000Lbs Taller Longer 4 Post Storage Service Lift
- HPDMC 15,000Lbs 4-Post Car Lift 220V Heavy Duty – CE Certified
- BendPak HD-9XW 9000lb Capacity 4 Post Car Lift – Standard Width
- BendPak HD-9 9000lb Capacity 4 Post Car Lift – Standard Width
- QuickJack BL-3500SLX Portable Car Lift – 3,500-lbs. Capacity
- Fence Post Mount for Bird Buddy – Secure 4″×4″ Fence Post Attachment
- Weize 8500 lbs 4 Post Car Lift with Casters Kits Four Post Parking Lift
- DMC-FPPS 8500 lbs Four Post Parking Lift, 110V Heavy Duty 4 Post Lift
- Tuxedo TP-15AK Four Post Lift with Aluminum Runways
APlusLift HW-8SXLT 8000LB Extra Tall Extra Long 4-Post Lift
The APlusLift HW-8SXLT is a standout option for those needing extra clearance. With its generous drive-through width of 99 inches and a high lifting point, it comfortably accommodates larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs. This model is built for both storage and service applications, providing ample room to work underneath.
This lift is valued for its comprehensive package, which includes a free caster kit for mobility, a jack tray, drip trays, and removable approach ramps. The industry-leading 36-month parts replacement warranty adds significant peace of mind, protecting your investment for an extended period and highlighting the manufacturer’s confidence in its durability.
TRIUMPH NSS8TL 8000Lbs Taller Longer 4 Post Storage Service Lift
The TRIUMPH NSS8TL offers similar oversized dimensions to the APlusLift, with a 94-inch overall height and a 190-inch length. This design is specifically tailored for users who require additional space for taller vehicles or need extra room for service tasks. Its 8,000-pound capacity handles a wide range of consumer vehicles with ease.
As a versatile hoist, it is well-suited for both long-term parking and regular automotive maintenance. The substantial drive-through width ensures that even wide-bodied trucks can be positioned without difficulty. It represents a solid, no-frills option for the home mechanic looking for a full-size lift with a spacious design.
HPDMC 15,000Lbs 4-Post Car Lift 220V Heavy Duty
For those dealing with heavy-duty trucks and equipment, the HPDMC lift is a formidable choice. With a massive 15,000-pound capacity, it far exceeds the needs of a typical home garage, making it suitable for the largest consumer vehicles. Its CE certification is a mark of its adherence to international safety standards.
This model includes a powerful 6,000-pound capacity rolling jack, which is essential for lifting wheels off the runways for brake and suspension work. The sturdy construction and wide overall footprint provide enhanced stability, a critical feature when working with such heavy loads. This is the lift for the serious enthusiast with heavy-duty requirements.
BendPak HD-9XW 9000lb Capacity 4 Post Car Lift
BendPak is a renowned name in the automotive lift industry, and the HD-9XW exemplifies its commitment to quality. This standard-width, high-lift model is engineered for parking, storage, and service, offering versatility for any home garage or shop. Note that a forklift is required for offloading, so preparation for delivery is necessary.
Safety and durability are key features, with fully enclosed lifting cables and sheaves that protect critical components from dust and debris. The integrated safety locks provide secure positioning at various heights. As a product from a leading brand, this lift is built to professional standards, ensuring long-term reliability.
BendPak HD-9 9000lb Capacity 4 Post Car Lift
The BendPak HD-9 is another top-tier option from this trusted manufacturer, offering a 9,000-pound capacity for most cars and light trucks. Its robust construction utilizes heavy-duty aircraft cable and dual-hub cable sheaves for smooth and reliable operation. Like its sibling model, it requires a forklift for delivery.
This lift is a classic choice for home garages seeking a permanent, highly reliable solution for storage and maintenance. The focus on high-quality components and a proven design minimizes the potential for issues down the road. It is an investment in a tool that is designed to last for decades.
QuickJack BL-3500SLX Portable Car Lift
The QuickJack BL-3500SLX offers a different approach as a portable, low-profile 4-post lift. With a 3,500-pound capacity, it is perfect for compact cars and small wheelbase vehicles. Its ALI certification guarantees that it meets rigorous safety and performance standards set by the Automotive Lift Institute.
This model is ideal for garages where space is at a premium, as it stores flat when not in use. Its portability allows you to move it around the garage or even take it to the track. For owners of smaller vehicles who need a flexible and space-saving lifting solution, the QuickJack is an excellent and safe choice.
Fence Post Mount for Bird Buddy
This product is not a car lift. The Fence Post Mount for Bird Buddy is an accessory designed specifically for mounting a Bird Buddy smart bird feeder securely to a 4×4 fence post. It is a made-to-order item that includes the mount and four stainless steel screws for installation.
While it shares the “post” terminology, its function is entirely different from the automotive lifts on this list. It is intended for bird-watching enthusiasts looking to place their feeder in an optimal location in their yard. Please ensure compatibility with your Bird Buddy feeder before purchasing.
Weize 8500 lbs 4 Post Car Lift with Casters Kits
The Weize 4-post lift provides a strong 8,500-pound capacity and includes a convenient caster kit for mobility. Its 110V hydraulic power unit is a significant benefit for home users, as it operates on standard household current without requiring special industrial wiring. The 1.5 HP motor ensures smooth and efficient lifting.
With a drive-through width of 93 inches, it fits most vehicles effortlessly. The ultra-stable steel construction provides a secure platform for both storage and service work. This model strikes a good balance between capacity, convenience, and home-garage compatibility.
DMC-FPPS 8500 lbs Four Post Parking Lift
The DMC-FPPS is another robust 8,500-pound capacity lift that emphasizes value and safety. It features a single-point manual safety lock release, making it easy to secure the lift at different heights. Like the Weize model, it uses a 110V power system, which is ideal for home installation.
This model is backed by an impressive 3-year parts replacement warranty, demonstrating the manufacturer’s commitment to quality and customer support. The high-quality hydraulic system is designed for reliable, heavy-duty use in workshops and maintenance shops, providing a dependable lifting solution for the long term.
Tuxedo TP-15AK Four Post Lift with Aluminum Runways
The Tuxedo TP-15AK distinguishes itself with its aluminum runways, which significantly reduce the overall weight of the lift without compromising strength. This feature can make assembly and potential relocation easier. While specific details are limited, lifts with aluminum components are often valued for their resistance to corrosion.
This model is likely aimed at users who require a high-quality lift with premium materials. Aluminum runways are a notable upgrade that can enhance the long-term durability and ease of use of the lift. For those seeking a lift with advanced material construction, the Tuxedo TP-15AK is a compelling option to research further.
How to Choose a 4-Post Car Lift for Your Home Garage
When I started looking for a 4-post car lift for my own garage, I quickly realized it wasn’t as simple as just picking the shiniest one. There are a few key things you need to get right to make sure your new tool is a perfect fit for your space and your projects. Let me walk you through the main points I considered.
First up, and this is a big one, is the lift’s capacity. You need to know the weight of the heaviest vehicle you plan to lift. Most standard lifts for home garages handle between 7,000 and 9,000 pounds. My truck is on the heavier side, so I made sure to pick a model with a little extra headroom. It’s always better to have more capacity than you think you’ll need. Next, you have to measure your garage. Check the ceiling height carefully. You need enough clearance for the lift itself, plus the height of your vehicle, plus you standing underneath it. Don’t forget to account for the space the lift takes up when it’s not in use. A 4-post lift has a large footprint, so you’ll be giving up a parking spot for it.
Then, think about the power system. You’ll find hydraulic, air-over-hydraulic, and electric models. For most home garages, a standard 110V/120V electric power unit is the most convenient. It plugs into a regular household outlet, which is a huge plus. If you have an air compressor in your garage, an air-over-hydraulic system is another solid option. Another feature I found incredibly useful is the ability to move the lift. Some models come with casters or a rolling jack. This lets you roll the entire lifted car around your garage, which is a game-changer for maximizing space. You can park a car underneath and still have access to the lifted vehicle.
Finally, pay attention to the accessories. A sliding jack tray is almost a necessity. It allows you to lift individual wheels off the runways for brake work, tire rotations, and suspension repairs. Locking mechanisms are another critical safety feature. You want automatic, redundant locks that engage as the lift rises, providing a physical barrier that will hold the lift in place even if the hydraulics fail. Taking the time to think through these points—capacity, space, power, and features—will help you find one of the best 4-post car lifts for home garages that you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special foundation for a 4-post lift?
Generally, a standard 4-inch thick concrete slab is sufficient for most home garage 4-post lifts. The key is the concrete’s psi (pounds per square inch) rating. Most manufacturers require a minimum of 3,000 psi or 4,000 psi. It’s crucial to check the specific requirements for the model you’re buying. If your garage floor is older, cracked, or thinner than 4 inches, you should consult a professional to assess it. The lift’s manual will have all the detailed specifications for proper installation.
Can I install a 4-post lift by myself?
While it’s technically possible for a very mechanically-inclined person with the right equipment, I highly recommend against a solo installation. These lifts are extremely heavy, and the assembly process requires precise alignment for safe operation. It’s much safer and more efficient to have at least one or two other helpers. For peace of mind and to ensure everything is set up correctly and safely, hiring a professional installer is often the best route. They know exactly how to handle the components and anchor the lift properly.
What is the difference between a 4-post and a 2-post lift?
This is a fundamental choice. A 4-post lift has runways that the car’s tires sit on, much like a drive-on ramp. It’s fantastic for storage, maintenance, and lubrication work. A 2-post lift uses arms that lift the car from its chassis lift points, leaving the wheels and suspension hanging free. This is better for jobs involving suspension, brake, or exhaust work. For a home garage, a 4-post lift is often preferred for its stability and because it doesn’t require precise positioning of lifting arms under the vehicle.
Are there any ongoing maintenance requirements?
Yes, but it’s not overly burdensome. Regular maintenance is essential for safety and longevity. You should periodically check the hydraulic fluid levels and look for any signs of leaks. The cables and pulleys need to be inspected for wear and kept clean. The moving parts, like the locks and rolling jacks, should be lubricated according to the manufacturer’s schedule. Giving the runways a quick wipe-down to remove dirt and debris also helps everything run smoothly. It’s all about preventative care.
Is it difficult to get a car positioned correctly on the lift?
It takes a little practice, but it’s not difficult. Most quality 4-post lifts for home use come with features that make alignment easy, like center spotting disks or guide ramps on the runways. These help you line up your tires perfectly as you drive on. After doing it a few times, it becomes second nature. Just take it slow and use any guides provided. The goal is to get all four tires centered on the runways for a balanced lift.