Lift Height 101: Low vs. Mid Rise Lifts

Lift Height 101: Low vs. Mid Rise Lifts

Lifts offer car enthusiasts and mechanics a safe and secure environment to work on the underside of a vehicle, the wheel assembly or the suspension system. Lifts make everything from detailing to maintenance and repairs much easier.

When searching for a car lift, it is important to keep in mind that some are designed more for storage whereas others are made for performing vehicle maintenance. Additionally, there are two main types of car lifts — low and mid rise — that you can choose from depending on the types of vehicles you plan to work on, what services you plan to do and the size of your garage or shop.

At North American Auto Equipment, we offer a range of low and mid rise lifts. We want to make choosing the right size car lift easy, so here are some of the main differences and uses of each type.

Low Rise Car Lifts

A low rise car lift typically operates in a garage or shop with a maximum height of 10 feet. These machines can lift a vehicle approximately 24-28 inches off the ground. Because of their size, they allow youto maximizeyour workspace while being able to adjust the vehicle easily. Even though it may take up less space, a low rise car lift is still sturdy and offers security when working on both cars and trucks.

Pros and Cons of Low Rise Car Lifts

There are many benefits to using a low rise car lift. These lifts are perfect for car enthusiasts with smaller garages or those who need just a bit of ground clearance for detailing or low car work. They reduce aches and pains caused by working in awkward positions and make tasks easier by putting your vehicle at the perfect height. If you are DIYing repairs, these lifts will also help you save money by allowing you to repair at home instead of in a shop.

One drawback to using these types of lifts is that they need a few inches of "run up," which is to say they can't lift a car from a completely flat position. This need for a weight-free start can cause a problem when you're working on vehicles with limited ground clearance, like sports cars.

Low Rise Car Lift Uses

Because of their smaller size, low rise lifts are popular with home hobby car lovers. They are used when you don't need to lift the vehicle very high, making them ideal for brake, exhaust or tire work that requires just a few extra feet of room. They can also be used for general or new car preparation as well as detailing.

Mid Rise Car Lifts

A mid rise car lift gives you more space beneath your vehicle. These lifts are adjustable as well and are popular in auto body shops, garages and tire shops. Mid rise lifts can come in different forms, such as a scissor lift, portable lift or flush-mounted lift, and they are often commercial-grade.

Pros and Cons of Mid Rise Car Lifts

Like the low rise, the mid rise car lifts also have the benefit of making car repairs easier by placing the vehicle at a convenient height. This adjustability helps to reduce body aches and pains and can save you money by allowing you to do more work yourself.

However, it is important to keep in mind that larger, more powerfulmid rise lifts tend to cost more than the low rise versions.

Mid Rise Car Lift Uses

Mid rise car lifts can facilitate the same repairs as low rise lifts, such as wheel, tire and brake repairs. However, because they lift your vehicle higher, mid rise car lifts are also ideal for more involved collision repairs and bodywork.

Check Out Low and Mid Rise Car Lifts From North American Auto Equipment

If you have any questions about our low or mid rise car lifts, please don't hesitate to contact us. We can discuss your needs and compare models so that we can come up with the perfect lift solution that is within your budget!