What You Need to Know About In-Ground Auto Lifts

Inexperienced hobbyists who would like to buy a car lift may not know which type is the best for their needs. This article discusses some of the key benefits and drawbacks of in-ground car lifts. Use this information to make an informed decision about the suitability of this type of car lift for your application.

What In-Ground Car Lifts Are

In-ground car lifts are auto lifts that are installed deep in the floor or ground. The lift can operate in different ways, such as operating like an elevator that lifts a vehicle so that its underside can be accessed. Others can operate like scissor lifts. The load capacity of these lifts varies from one model to another.

The Pros

Space economy. In-ground auto lifts can be hidden away in the ground once you don't want to use them. This can enable you to park your car in the same spot where the auto lift is located. This makes in-ground car lifts suitable for locations where space is limited.

Strength. In-ground auto lifts tend to be very strong and stable. This is because they are firmly anchored inside concrete bases in your garage or yard. You will therefore be less likely to have an accident resulting from an unstable car lift if you install an in-ground auto lift.

Ease of use. In-ground auto lifts are also easy to use. This is because all that you are required to do is to drive a car onto their platform before you engage the lift mechanism to hoist up that car. This is especially true of the type that is designed to operate like a car elevator.

The Cons

They can be expensive. In-ground auto lifts tend to cost more to buy and install. For instance, the cost of cutting up the concrete in your garage in order to install the lift can increase the cost of the project significantly.

It is hard to detect leaks. Most of the frame of in-ground lifts is below grade. This makes it difficult to detect faults, such as hydraulic leaks, in case they develop. Consequently, leaks can worsen to the level of contaminating underground water sources on your property.

Weigh the pros and cons above before you make a final decision. It may also be helpful for you to talk to an expert for advice on how to overcome some of the challenges of owning an in-ground auto lift. For instance, the professional may advise you to install an oil barrier in order to limit the damage caused by hydraulic fluid leaks.