Portable Car Jacks That Fit in Your Trunk
The BigRed T81502 Torin Hydraulic Jack is the best overall portable compact car jack. It offers a 1.5 ton capacity with a low profile, making it ideal for most sedans and small SUVs. Its double welded steel construction ensures durability, but it is heavier than some aluminum rivals.
A flat tire or brake job can happen anywhere. A portable car jack that fits in your trunk is a lifesaver. But not all jacks are created equal. Some are too tall for sports cars, others too weak for trucks.
We compared seven real jacks currently sold on Amazon. Each one was chosen for its compact size, lifting power, and portability. Read on to find the right jack for your vehicle and budget.
The shortlist, ranked
BigRed T81502 Torin Hydraulic Jack
This 1.5 ton jack has a low profile and a wide base for stability. Owners report it lifts most sedans and crossovers with ease. Its steel frame is sturdy, but at 31.5 pounds it is not the lightest.
Pros
- Low profile fits many cars
- Durable steel construction
- Wide base for stability
Cons
- Heavy for some users
- No carrying case
Pro-Lif T-6002 Aluminum Floor Jack
Weighing only 22 pounds, this aluminum jack is easy to lift in and out of your trunk. It has a 1.5 ton capacity and a low profile. Some owners note that the handle requires a bit more effort to pump.
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum body
- Low profile for sports cars
- Compact size for storage
Cons
- Handle can be stiff
- Smaller lifting range
Torin T10151 Steel Scissor Jack
A simple and reliable scissor jack at a low cost. It is compact and lightweight, but it lifts slowly. Owners say it works well for emergency tire changes, but not for frequent garage use.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Extremely portable
- Easy to store
Cons
- Slow lifting
- Not for heavy use
Powerbuilt 6202 3 Ton Bottle Jack
This bottle jack lifts up to 3 tons, making it suitable for larger vehicles. It is compact and has a wide base. However, its minimum height is higher, so it is not ideal for low cars.
Pros
- High capacity
- Stable bottle design
- Compact for its power
Cons
- Too tall for low cars
- Limited lifting height
BigRed T83006 Torin Hydraulic Bottle Jack
With a minimum height of 5.5 inches, this bottle jack slides under many lowered cars. It has a 3 ton capacity. Owners appreciate its solid build, but the handle can be short.
Pros
- Low profile for sports cars
- High lifting capacity
- Sturdy steel construction
Cons
- Short handle
- A bit heavy
Sunex 7401LP 1.5 Ton Aluminum Jack
This aluminum jack is built for frequent use with a quick lift system. It is lightweight and has a low profile. Owners say it is smooth and reliable, but it costs more than others.
Pros
- Smooth lifting
- Durable aluminum
- Low profile
Cons
- Pricey
- Not for heavy duty
Arcan 2 Ton Low Profile Floor Jack
This floor jack has a 2 ton capacity and a low profile. It is heavier than aluminum jacks but offers great stability. Owners report it lifts quickly and fits under most cars.
Pros
- Lifts quickly
- Stable base
- Good capacity
Cons
- Heavy
- Large footprint
How they compare
| # | Model | Capacity | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BigRed T81502 Torin Hydraulic Jack | 1.5 tons (3,000 lbs) | Best overall for most cars | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Pro-Lif T-6002 Aluminum Floor Jack | 1.5 tons (3,000 lbs) | Best for lightweight portability | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Torin T10151 Steel Scissor Jack | 1.5 tons (3,000 lbs) | Best budget option | 8.6 | Check price |
| 4 | Powerbuilt 6202 3 Ton Bottle Jack | 3 tons (6,000 lbs) | Best for trucks and SUVs | 8.9 | Check price |
| 5 | BigRed T83006 Torin Hydraulic Bottle Jack | 3 tons (6,000 lbs) | Best for low clearance vehicles | 8.8 | Check price |
| 6 | Sunex 7401LP 1.5 Ton Aluminum Jack | 1.5 tons (3,000 lbs) | Best for professional use | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | Arcan 2 Ton Low Profile Floor Jack | 2 tons (4,000 lbs) | Best for low profile sedans | 9.0 | Check price |
What to look for
Frequently asked questions
Are portable car jacks safe to use on the side of the road?
Yes, if you use them on level ground and always use jack stands. Portable jacks are for lifting, not supporting. Never put any part of your body under the car while it is on a jack alone.
Can I use a scissor jack for a tire change?
Absolutely. Scissor jacks are commonly used for emergency tire changes. They are compact and easy to use, but they lift slowly. Always follow the owner’s manual for proper placement.
What is the difference between a bottle jack and a floor jack?
Bottle jacks are vertical and compact, while floor jacks have a horizontal frame and wheels. Floor jacks are easier to position and lift faster. Bottle jacks are smaller and can fit in tight spaces.
How do I know if a jack will fit under my car?
Measure the clearance under your car’s lowest point. Then check the jack’s minimum height. The jack must be lower than that measurement to slide under the car. Many low profile jacks have a minimum height of 3 to 4 inches.
Should I buy a 2 ton jack or a 3 ton jack?
It depends on your vehicle. A 2 ton jack can lift most cars and small SUVs. A 3 ton jack is for larger trucks and SUVs. Always choose a capacity higher than your vehicle’s weight to be safe.
What maintenance does a hydraulic jack require?
Check the hydraulic fluid level periodically. Keep the piston clean and free of dirt. Lubricate the moving parts occasionally. Store the jack in a dry place to prevent rust.
Can I use a floor jack on gravel or dirt?
It is not recommended. Floor jacks need a hard, level surface to be stable. On gravel, the jack could sink or tip. Use a piece of plywood under the jack for extra support if necessary.
How often should I replace my car jack?
If the jack shows signs of leaking, rust, or difficulty in lifting, replace it. Regular inspection is key. Many jacks last for years with proper care. If you use it frequently, check it more often.
Our take
For most drivers, the BigRed T81502 Torin Hydraulic Jack is the best choice. It combines a low profile, solid steel build, and a reliable 1.5 ton capacity at a reasonable price. If you have a low sports car, the Arcan 2 Ton Low Profile Floor Jack is worth the extra weight for its performance. For heavy trucks, the Powerbuilt 6202 bottle jack is the right call.
