car ramps can be safely used for an oil change if you buy a quality set, use them correctly, and follow proper safety procedures. Many DIY vehicle owners use car ramps instead of floor jacks because they are simple, stable, and convenient for routine maintenance.
What Are Car Ramps?
Car ramps are heavy-duty inclined platforms that allow a vehicle to be driven up several inches off the ground, providing access to the engine oil drain plug, oil filter, and other underbody components. They are commonly made from reinforced plastic, steel, or composite materials and are designed to support the weight of a vehicle safely.
Are Car Ramps Safe?
When used correctly, quality car ramps are generally very safe. In many situations, they can be safer than a hydraulic jack because the vehicle rests on a solid structure rather than relying on hydraulic pressure.
However, safety depends on:
Choosing ramps with a weight rating higher than your vehicle's weight.
Using ramps on a flat, solid surface such as concrete.
Ensuring the tires are centered on the ramps.
Applying the parking brake after driving onto the ramps.
Placing wheel chocks behind the wheels remaining on the ground.
Inspecting ramps regularly for cracks, deformation, or damage.
How to Use Car Ramps for an Oil Change
Step 1: Park on Level Ground
Choose a flat concrete surface. Avoid gravel, dirt, grass, or sloped driveways.
Step 2: Position the Ramps
Align the ramps directly in front of the tires that will drive onto them, usually the front wheels for a front-engine vehicle.
Step 3: Drive Slowly Onto the Ramps
Drive forward slowly and steadily until the tires reach the built-in stop at the top of the ramps. Many ramps have a raised lip that prevents overdriving.
Step 4: Secure the Vehicle
Shift the transmission into Park (automatic) or first gear (manual), engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
Step 5: Verify Stability
Gently shake the vehicle to confirm it is stable before working underneath.
Step 6: Perform the Oil Change
Drain the old oil, replace the oil filter, reinstall the drain plug with the proper torque specification, and refill the engine with the correct oil.
Step 7: Exit the Ramps Carefully
After finishing, remove wheel chocks, start the engine, and slowly reverse off the ramps.
Advantages of Car Ramps
Easier and faster than using a floor jack.
Provides stable support for routine maintenance.
No need to place jack stands under the vehicle.
Lightweight plastic models are easy to store.
Excellent for oil changes, inspections, and underbody checks.
Potential Risks
Car ramps can become dangerous if:
The vehicle exceeds the ramp's load rating.
The ramp material is cracked or damaged.
The surface is slippery or uneven.
The driver accelerates too quickly and overshoots the stop.
Low-clearance vehicles scrape the ramp during approach.
Which Vehicles Work Best?
Car ramps are ideal for:
Sedans
SUVs
Crossovers
Pickup trucks
They may be less suitable for:
Very low sports cars
Lowered vehicles
Some luxury performance models with limited front clearance
Final Recommendation
If you perform regular oil changes at home, a high-quality set of car ramps is a worthwhile investment and can be used safely for many years. Choose ramps from a reputable manufacturer, verify that the load capacity exceeds your vehicle's gross weight, always use wheel chocks, and never work under a vehicle that is not properly secured. For most DIY oil changes, properly rated car ramps are one of the safest and most convenient lifting solutions available.