Look at it objectively. The car ramp is generally constructed from sturdily welded angle steel, complete with lots of diagonals to support the load. You'll also find plastic car ramps for sale. When you're shopping for new car ramps, you'll find that they are rated to a certain capacity. A rule of thumb is that the ramps should be capable of supporting more than half of the weight of your car. Car ramps can be made out of either plastic or metal, and you may assume that plastic car ramps would be cheaper than metal ramps, but that's not always the case. Think of car ramps as an investment that'll save you money in the long term - they'll enable you to work safely under your car instead of having to take it to a garage to carry out the work. As a result, they could pay for themselves in as little as one home maintenance session. What are car ramps used for? You'll find the kerb weight of your car in the Haynes Manual, AutoFix or often in the owner's manual. If you are buying ramps second-hand (always inspect them in person rather than buying them online), they should have a rating stamped on them – such as '2 tonne' or '3 tonne car ramps' – but if not and you have a larger, heavier car then proceed with caution. 3. Dimensions

Compact, convenient and innovative 3tonne (pair) rated car ramps (maximum single axle weight of 1800kg) supplied with four stands and removable lifting beam, capable of raising a vehicle completely off the ground giving a clear workspace between vehicle and floor Car ramps are simple tools, but there are still a few important things to bear in mind when buying a pair for your vehicle. 1. Ground clearance

Car ramps for sale – what to watch for

Regular ramps will work on the majority of cars, so it is only exotic sports cars, modified cars with non-standard suspension and racing cars that are likely to need specialist ramps, also known as car ramp extensions or low profile car ramps. 2. 3 tonne car ramps

Some cars struggle to get up ramps if they have low ground clearance caused by spoilers and diffusers, but low rise car ramps are available. Here's an invaluable tip: If you find that the car pushes the car ramps out of the way when you try to mount them, tie a short length of thin rope around the bottom rung of the ramp and lay the rope on the ground. Car ramps are a method of raising your vehicle so you can work safely underneath it, and are an alternative to axle stands.

Some sports cars struggle to get up ramps if they have low ground clearance, but low rise car ramps or car ramp extensions are available to avoid you damaging the vehicle. Can car ramps collapse?