We need to change our vehicle’s oil periodically to boost performance. And for that, the safety of the changing process needs to be guaranteed.
Here the ramps come in. But are car ramps safe for oil changes? How much do you agree on it?
Well, they’re secure once it comes to replacing the existing oil of your car. You need to ensure their weight limit and flat surface to avoid inconvenience. These ramps are safe like jacks, so most people prefer them in their daily vehicle oil-changing situations.
In this guide, we’ll talk about those points descriptively. Read on and thank us later!
Are Car Ramps Safe for Oil Changes?
Car ramps are safe for oil changes (most mechanics swear by this). They’re sure about these tools, as ramps are pretty easy to use. As they’re easy, you can gently put them under your vehicle, and there’ll be less chance of any risk.
On the other hand, car ramps take up a large area, so there’s also less possibility your vehicle will fall. This tool will build traction to the ground and support your car wheels so smoothly that you can finish the oil change on the wheels as fast as possible.
Hence, they’re quick as well.
Moreover, you can see all the car jacks support effortlessly while changing oil. You can be sure your oil replacement is done correctly if you also work with car ramps.; trust us; it’ll be super-efficient.
So yes, car ramps are helpful for the oil change.
How to Safely Raise a Vehicle Using Ramps?
A solid and good pair of ramps will help you not go under your vehicle by squeezing your body. So firstly, you’ll need –
Car Ramps: For your vehicle’s front and rear wheels, you’ll need ramps. Try to purchase those which are made with solid steel or heavy-duty plastic.
Wheel Chocks: You’ll also need some plastic stops behind the wheels. To avoid your car from rolling off, wheel chocks are necessary.
Flat Surface: Always find a flat surface whenever you use car ramps. It’ll help not to make your vehicle fall down.
Here are the steps to safely raise your favorite car by using ramps for an oil change. Let’s see!
● First, you must find a flat, firm surface where you can keep your car for work. Remember that slopes will increase the danger of the vehicle falling off.
● Then, go inside your car and make sure the center of the steering wheel is pointed straight ahead. That’ll make the wheels also straight. Hence, you can work without any trouble afterward.
● In this step, you have to be a little careful. Put the 1st ramp in front of your driver’s side wheel. Push it till it touches the rubber of your tire.
● Next, in the same way, put another ramp into the same position as the passenger’s side front wheel.
● Make sure both ramps are situated at the same angle and point so that when you start your oil changing, the ramps can support the wheels.
● Now, get inside the car. Start the engine and drive it towards the ramps. At first, your vehicle might not move forward, but it gives more gas than usual. It’ll work.
● Continue driving until it feels like you should stop. Or else you can keep one of your friends to observe where to stop.
● Finally, switch off the ignition and detach the key. Set your parking brake.
● Last but not least, don’t forget to lock the rear wheels with wheel chocks as they’ll balance the weight.
How to Change Oil with Front Wheels on Ramps?
Now that you know how to raise your car perfectly on ramps, it’s time you should get some bits about the oil-changing process. They include,
● In the beginning, raise your car highly on the car ramps. It’ll help you to see the parts of the vehicle clearly.
● You need to give your car engine a little time to cool down.
● After it’s in the normal temperature, find the drain plug.
● The safest car ramps will let your vehicle hang in there pretty effortlessly, so you can see the plug easily. It looks like a black bolt, if you don’t know.
● Right behind the plug, there’s the oil filter. Take your wrench box and carefully unscrew the drain plug.
● Make sure you have the oil collecting pan with you to take all the old oil there.
● Now, it’s time to remove the former oil filter. Replace it gently in case the oil stain makes your clothes dirty.
● Unbox the new filter and fill it in with brand-new fresh oil.
● Read the manual of your car and stuff the oil with the recommended amount.
● Then, put the filter again in the selected vehicle part and screw the drain plug.
● Clean the whole area with a towel or paper and lower your car.
● Let it sit for a moment, and then start the engine. (Of course, remove the ramps first and then start your engine).
Car Jack Vs Car Ramp for Oil Changes?
So, some people go with the car jack for an oil change and some prefer short car ramps. Here we’ll show the difference between these two so that you can decide which one will work for your vehicle.
Car Jack | Car Ramp |
Made for tight spaces | Can work anywhere |
Need some knowledge to use | Easy to use |
Modern technology based | Traditional |
Can remove tires | Can’t remove tires |
Expensive | Cost Effective |
Makes your cloth dirty | Works Clean |
Are Car Ramps Better Than Jack Stands?
Jack stands are mainly made for professionals. They’re surely lightweight than car ramps, but most accidents happened using the stands if they are not used perfectly. Therefore, it requires much consideration and experience if you want to use them.
As a beginner, it’s always better to start with the gentle and easiest tools. Car ramps are exactly like that. They take a little more time than stands, but they’ll guarantee your safety. Plus, these tools are cost-effective and reliable.
Anyone with the bare minimum knowledge can use it and your vehicle won’t be flipping down anytime.
So, we’ll recommend starting with car ramps.
Is It Ok to Change Oil on An Incline?
It’s always a great idea to change the oil on an incline. Because it’ll let all the hot oil slide into the filter pretty easily. The safety feature is also top-tier here so if you’re aware of the procedure, go for it.
Should I Lift My Car for Oil Change?
Of course, you should lift your car to change the oil. Otherwise, if the car is straight, you can’t go under it and perform all the tasks. You can use ramps to lift it properly to give your vehicle a proper balance.
Where Do You Put the Jack on A Car for An Oil Change?
To replace the old oil, you need to raise your car first. And for that, jack stands can be really helpful. You have to put the jack under your car’s rocker panels. It’s situated at the front of the rear wheels and at the back of the front wheels.
Conclusion
So, what do you think? Are car ramps safe for oil changes or not? We’re sure you got your answer as these tools are one of the safest ones to replace your dirt vehicle oil.
All you need is a little concentration and skill. Then, the rest will be done with the flow. And yes, try to wear some semi-fitted dress so that your outfit doesn’t get ruined.
Good luck!