Automotive lifts come in a large number of different styles. Some are designed specifically for small garages while others are made for large, professional garages. In both of these categories, some styles are built with long-term storage in mind. Here are a few of the different styles of car lifts you might be looking at.

Post Style Automotive Lifts

Two-post car lifts are a popular choice for most home garages because they use a small amount of space while still handling many different styles and sizes of vehicles. Symmetrical two-post lifts have two posts across from each other with stabilizing bars in the opposite direction to hold it steady centering the vehicle’s weight. Asymmetrical lifts have rotated posts with weight towards the front. The biggest difference between the two styles of lifts is that asymmetrical lifts allow access to the interior of the vehicle while a symmetrical style is better equipped to lift rear heavy vehicles.

Four post automotive lifts are commonly used for long-term storage and can lift heavier vehicles. This is because the additional two posts make them more stable. Unlike their two-post counterparts, vehicles are driven onto the lift. They are often found in the home garages of automotive enthusiasts, and even on antique and car show floors. Auto dealers often use this style for the vehicles in their showrooms.

Scissor And Parallelogram Lifts

While their design does not make them a wise choice for storage purposes, scissor lifts are ideal for working underneath a vehicle in a home garage. They often have a bigger price tag than post models and require more space. However, they give mechanics the space to work in the centers of undercarriages and are particularly convenient for larger vehicles such as buses.

Hydraulic Car Lifts

Mechanics who use their automotive lifts frequently often select this style. These models utilize the power of hydraulics to raise and lower a vehicle. Hydraulic lifts provide an added level of safety along with their ease of use. Specifically designed liquids that are run through cylinders and pumps power the action.

Some models combine the power of electricity with hydraulics. These are the most popular types of automotive lifts available since the power runs the hydraulics. They have great stability for storage and work quickly and easily enough for frequent professional and amateur mechanics as well as some professional storage companies.

Mechanical And In-Ground Lifts

These are similar to hydraulic styles without the hydraulics to raise and lower the units. Rather than liquids and cylinders, this style requires the use of locks, screws, bolts, and wrenches to lift. These models are inconvenient to use. Since hydraulic models are not priced much higher than mechanical styles, this option is often left behind.

In-ground lifts are space saving and convenient, however, these features come with a bigger price tag. These are the styles seen in big repair shops. The lift is stored at a level that is level with the floor so that cars can be parked on top overnight. They also work well for commercial applications because they add floor space when they aren’t being used to prevent damage caused by crowding.

Specific Use Models

Space-saving garage models are reserved for the indoor storage of multiple vehicles. These car lifts give the user the benefit of storing one vehicle on top just inches from a second one stored underneath. Showcase lifts have added features and appealing finishes. They are designed to complement the vehicle they are storing specifically for show purposes. They are often seen at places such as professional car shows and auto dealers. Both the garage and showcase units come in a few different styles.