When you own a low car, maintaining it can sometimes feel like a challenge. Many car ramps aren’t designed with low-clearance vehicles in mind, which can lead to damage, frustration, and the need for more expensive repairs. Fortunately, there are car ramps on the market specifically designed for low cars that make maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and underbody inspections easier car ramp for low cars. But how do you choose the best one for your vehicle? This guide breaks down the features to consider when selecting the perfect car ramps for low-clearance cars.
1. Understand the Clearance Requirements
Low-clearance cars, such as sports cars, sedans, and lowered vehicles, require ramps with a low incline and adequate lift height. Before purchasing a car ramp, you must know the ground clearance of your vehicle. Generally, low-clearance vehicles have a ground clearance of 3 to 5 inches. If your car’s clearance is on the lower end, you’ll need ramps with an incline that won’t scrape or damage the undercarriage of the car.
2. Consider the Ramp Material
The material of the ramp impacts both durability and weight capacity. Common materials include:
- Plastic: Lightweight and rust-resistant, plastic ramps are easy to store and transport. They are best for lighter vehicles and are often less expensive.
- Steel: Steel ramps are heavier but typically more durable and can support heavier vehicles. They tend to provide a more stable base, but make sure they are coated to prevent rust if you live in a humid environment.
- Aluminum: Aluminum ramps offer a good balance of strength, weight, and portability. They are lightweight but strong enough for most cars and rust-resistant. This makes them ideal for car owners who need a ramp that will last.
3. Look for Low-Incline Ramps
For low-clearance vehicles, a steep incline is a big no-no. A ramp with a gentler slope is necessary to prevent the vehicle from scraping against the ramp or bottoming out. Low-incline ramps are designed to allow the car to drive onto them more gradually, minimizing the chance of damage. Look for ramps with an incline of around 10 to 12 degrees. The lower the slope, the better for your low car.
4. Check the Weight Capacity
While most car ramps are designed to handle a variety of vehicles, you should always check the weight capacity to ensure it’s sufficient for your car. Lightweight ramps may be convenient for regular use, but they might not be suitable for heavier vehicles. Be sure to pick ramps that can comfortably hold your vehicle’s weight, especially if you drive a heavier sports car or luxury vehicle.
5. Choose the Right Length
The length of the ramp plays a key role in how easy it is to drive up. Longer ramps create a gentler incline, which is vital for low-clearance cars. Short ramps may cause the vehicle’s undercarriage to scrape or bottom out. Depending on your vehicle’s clearance, look for ramps that are at least 36 inches long to create a gradual slope.
6. Non-Slip Surface for Safety
A non-slip surface is essential for preventing your car from sliding off the ramp while driving up or down. Look for ramps with textured or ribbed surfaces to provide better traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Some ramps also feature raised ridges or rubber pads that help keep the car securely in place.
7. Consider Ramp Storage and Portability
If you’re short on space or need to transport your ramps, consider their portability. Lightweight plastic or aluminum ramps are often easier to store and transport. Look for ramps that are either foldable or have a compact design so you can store them easily in your garage or car trunk.
8. Top Recommendations for Low-Car Ramps
Here are a few of the best ramps for low-clearance vehicles:
- RhinoGear 11909ABMI RhinoRamps These ramps are perfect for vehicles with a ground clearance of up to 6 inches. Made from durable polypropylene, they provide a 17-degree incline, ensuring a smooth drive-up without scraping.
- Torin Big Red TR6300 These steel ramps have a weight capacity of 3 tons and are designed with a low incline, making them ideal for low-clearance vehicles. The steel construction adds strength and durability, while the non-slip surface ensures safety.
- QuickJack BL-5000SLX While not a traditional ramp, the QuickJack portable car lift system is another excellent option for low-clearance vehicles. It lifts the vehicle off the ground entirely, providing a safe and easy way to work on the car’s underside.
9. Conclusion
Choosing the right car ramp for a low-clearance vehicle is crucial for both vehicle safety and maintenance convenience. Be sure to consider the incline, weight capacity, material, and overall stability of the ramp. Whether you’re performing regular maintenance or tackling DIY repairs, a high-quality ramp will make the job easier and protect your car from damage.