Vehicle Lifts & Hoists

Mechanics spend hours under vehicles held up by lifts. When a vehicle slides off the arms, a lift fails, or the balance shifts as a heavy part comes out, the result can be fatal. Correct setup and lock use make lifts very safe.

• Mechanics
• Fleet shops
• Dealerships

Types

• Two-post lifts: arms under the frame or pinch welds. Most sensitive to lift-point placement and balance.
• Four-post (drive-on) lifts: runways under the tires; jacking beams for wheel work.
• In-ground and scissor lifts
• Mobile column lifts for heavy trucks and buses

Before lifting

• Lift rated for the vehicle’s weight (EVs and loaded trucks are heavier than they look)
• Vehicle positioned with its center of gravity where the lift maker requires
• Arm pads on the manufacturer’s lift points; use adapters as needed
• Area clear of people, tools and parts
• Doors closed, hood clear of the posts

Lifting

1. Raise just until the tires leave the floor, then stop and check the pads and balance. Shake-test gently.
2. Raise to working height.
3. Lower onto the mechanical locks before anyone goes under. Don’t rely on hydraulics alone.

Lowering

• Clear tools, stands and people from under the vehicle.
• Raise slightly to release the locks, then lower slowly, watching both sides.
• Swing arms out of the way before driving off.

Inspection and certification

• Check the lift daily: cables, chains, locks, arm restraints, hydraulic leaks and anchor bolts.
• Industry standards call for a yearly inspection by a qualified lift inspector.
• Look for lifts certified to the ANSI/ALI standard (the Automotive Lift Institute gold label).
• Tag out any lift with a problem.

Last updated: October 2, 2026