¿How much does it cost to put a car lift in the garage?

Are you a weekend wrench enthusiast or a shop owner?

In any case, here we tell you what you need to install a lift and not lose money in the process.

When it comes to optimizing a garage, nothing is more appealing than a car lift. These majestic machines are perfect for do-it-yourselfers who want to learn about the anatomy of their vehicles. But finding the right quality car lift for your garage can be tricky.

The first thing home mechanics consider is cost. Some may have the resources to buy any lift they want. But, in general, these pieces of equipment are out of the budget for many. But don't worry, JMC is here to guide you in the right direction. How much does it cost to install a car lift in your garage?

¿Will a vehicle lift fit in my garage?

Before calculating the price, you must determine if your garage will support an elevator. Don't worry, we'll let you know the price soon.

Length of a garage

The first step is to make sure you have the space in your workshop or garage. Keep in mind that the maximum elevation of a 2 post lift is 2.75 meters. So you must have at least 2.90 meters of height available. For a 4 post lift you must have a height of 2.75 meters.

Also, depending on the lift you bought, you must have the electrical installation ready, which can be 110 and 220 volts. Remember that lift installers do not usually do electrical installations.

Distance to the garage ceiling when installing a vehicle hoist

This is where the money starts to come in. Without having to buy the elevator.

If you are installing a 9000 lb. 2 post lift, professional installation costs between $800 and $1,300, depending on the state you live in. With a good installer, this can take 3 to 4 hours at most.

Will my garage floor support the weight of a vehicle lift?

This will not be a problem since most lifts do not add weight to the garage floor.

Voltage and accessories for elevator operation

Although some elevators operate on standard household current, other models require higher voltages and electrical work. Some even require connection to a compressor for operation.

Now, about elevator cost

Lifts vary in price, size and construction. Check out our guide to vehicle lifts here to learn about the different types.

If you will be working on one or two cars (recreational use), a smaller capacity two-post lift will be ideal.

If your plan is to use the lift to store a vehicle in an elevated position, or you need more stability/access to the vehicle doors, a four-post lift will be more suitable.

As you can see, the cost depends on the specific requirements.

For example:If you are installing a 9000 lb. 2 post lift, professional installation costs between $800 and $1,300, depending on the state you live in. With a good installer, this can take 3 to 4 hours at most.

The installation cost for a 4 post lift can vary between $1,100 and $1,700 since this lift is more robust, so it also requires a little more time.

Installation costs

We do not know your level of experience in these installations. However, for safety's sake, we recommend that you hire professional services. Below are some estimated costs (not all are mandatory).

Installation of the elevator itself - $1000

Adding high lift kit/equipment to garage door: $900

Anchoring to garage floor: $350 (less if done at time of initial installation)

Electrical work and compressor may not be required. This will depend on the make and model of the elevator purchased, but if it is necessary, you will need to add these costs.

What is included in the installation?

• Leveling the lift
• Fixing the columns to the concrete
• Connecting the hydraulics
• And doing a test run

Now, can you do it yourself?

Of course you can do it. All you need is a friend to carry the poles and a case of beer on a weekend.
The lift manuals are extremely simple and intuitive. It will be like building a giant lego where you will put your FORD 150, Civic or Posrche. It's up to you.

If you want a personalized advice and the best prices and Lifts, contact JMC automovite equipment and we will assist you immediately.

Purchase of your elevator

Once you have decided to purchase, be sure to check the measurements. These include the clear height to the roof (including the top of the lift uprights), as well as the height of the vehicle once raised.

You will probably want to test the height on a full-size vehicle. However, we recommend you consider the largest and heaviest vehicle you plan to lift. Then, be sure to allow extra margin for possible measurement errors.

Be sure to include the costs of the compressor and electrical service in your budget. Once this is done, you are ready to proceed with the installation.

Why the cost increase?

Those who don't work in the industry are probably aware of the rising costs of automotive equipment.

Four-post lifts, which used to cost $3000 in 2015 and 2016, are now over $4000. Similar price changes have been applied to two-post lifts, as well as all other products.

Since the events of 2024, the cost of steel, shipping and even installation have increased. We hope this will not result in further cost increases, as we wish to remain the supplier of high quality automotive equipment at an affordable price.

While we don't know what the future holds in terms of pricing, we are available 24 hours a day to help you get your garage up and running.

Contact us today for more information on how to get started.