Trolley jacks – a must-have in your car kit

How does a trolley jack do its thing?

The basics? A trolley jack uses either hydraulics or, in some cases, a mechanical screw to lift your motor with minimal elbow grease. Most use hydraulics – you just slot it under the car, pump the handle, and up she goes. Mechanical types are about as rare as hen’s teeth these days, needing a bit more graft to wind up.

• Hydraulic jacks are simple to operate – just a few pumps and you’re golden.
• Mechanical jacks are old-school screw setups – tidy for lighter loads but a bit of a slog.

It’s all about multiplying your effort so you’re not struggling or swearing, even if you’re lifting something hefty.

What should you look for in a trolley jack?

Not all trolley jacks are created equal –and picking the right one will save you bother down the line. Here’s what’s worth checking before you part with your hard-earned cash:

1. Make sure the jack can comfortably manage your car’s weight. If you drive a big old estate or a 4×4, don’t skimp – bigger is better.
2. Pay attention to the lowest and highest points it’ll reach. Especially important if you’ve got a car that sits low to the road or has high wheel arches.
3. Heavy-gauge steel jacks are solid as a rock; aluminium ones are lighter and easier to lug about.
4. Look for overload valves or bypass systems – they’re your insurance policy against overdoing it.
5. If you imagine stashing it in the boot, or moving it around the garage, go for something with a carry handle, and not too heavy for one person to manage.

Choosing wisely means you’ll have a jack that’s not just up to the job, but is safe and a doddle to use.

Breaking down the types of trolley jacks

Standard trolley jacks – your all-purpose workhorse. These are what most drivers and mechanics reach for – reliable, sturdy, and perfect for most cars on British roads.

Low-profile jacks – own a sports car or something with barely a fag paper’s clearance? Low-profile jacks slide in where others won’t, making them the pick for anything that hugs the tarmac.

Heavy-duty jacks – if you’re dealing with vans, 4x4s or anything chunky, you want a heavy-duty jack. These beasts can lift a lot more weight, and they’re built to take the strain.

Aluminium jacks – need something that’s light enough for speedy work or easy to cart about? Aluminium jacks are spot on – ideal for track days or if you’re often helping mates out on the side of the road.

When do you actually need a trolley jack?

There’s plenty you can’t do properly without lifting your car, and this is where a trolley jack earns its keep. Some of the main uses:

Swapping tyres or changing a flat in a hurry.

Doing a brake job without breaking your back.

Emergency repairs after a trip over a rogue pothole.

Whether you’re working in a professional garage or just your own drive, a trolley jack makes the job safer and a whole lot quicker.

Top tips for using your trolley jack safely

Using any bit of lifting gear comes with a few golden rules – ignore them at your peril! To keep yourself (and your car) safe, always:

1. Stick jack stands underneath – never trust any jack – no matter how beefy – for more than lifting. Always support the car before you get stuck in.
2. Don’t dive underneath while it’s only on the jack – it’s tempting to have a quick nose, but it’s not worth the risk.
3. Set up on level, solid ground – looser surfaces are a no-go – save the drama for the football, not your driveway.
4. Give it a once-over before using – keep an eye out for oil leaks, bent frames or anything dodgy-looking.
5. Stick to these and you’ll steer clear of any mishaps.

How to pick the right trolley jack for your car

A bit of forward thinking means you’ll get a jack that’s a perfect fit, rather than something that gathers dust in the garage. Capacity’s king – check your car’s weight before buying, and always round up rather than down. If you’ve got a low-slung car, make sure you check the height – and go low-profile if you have to. After something for roadside emergencies? Portability matters – you don’t want to lug something the size of a small fridge around. It’s always worth a look in your vehicle handbook too: some cars have specific lifting points or odd clearances you’ll want to bear in mind.

Why buy your trolley jack from us?

A solid trolley jack is an absolute must, whether you’re fettling at home or on the move. We only stock jacks we’d trust with our own cars – proper quality, built to last, and always at decent prices. Whether you’re looking for something heavy-duty, lightweight, or specialist, we’ve got you covered. Have a browse, pick what suits, and get ready to make your next car job that bit easier – and safer.