How We Research
Every guide on Tinker Jacks answers one question: will this gear fit the vehicle and the job in front of you? A jack that suits a low sports car can be the wrong tool for a lifted pickup.
Here is how we work it out.
1. We start with your vehicle
We look at the kind of vehicle the guide is for: a low car, a sedan, an SUV or a full-size truck. That tells us the weight rating, the lowest saddle height and the top lift height that matter.
When your vehicle narrows the choice, we say what numbers to check before you buy.
2. We compare specs and build
For floor jacks we compare the ton rating, lift range, frame material, weight, pump design and the saddle. For jack stands we look at the rating per pair, the height range, the lock type and the base.
For ramps we check the rating, the lift height, the approach angle and the tire width they take. For creepers and seats we look at the frame, the wheels, the padding and the weight limit.
Makers describe their gear in their own words, so we name the brand for every claim. We also note the warranty terms the maker lists.
3. We read what owners report
We go through what owners say after using the gear. We look for patterns like slow leaks, a jack that creeps down, sticky release valves, ramps that slide on smooth floors and casters that jam.
One bad report doesn't sink a product. A pattern does.
4. We score each product
Our score weighs specs, features and owner feedback against what you're shopping for. The same jack can score well in one guide and lower in another, because the reader's vehicle is different.
Scores spread out on purpose. A 10 is rare.
5. We check for recalls and keep pages current
We check new picks against public recall lists from NHTSA and the CPSC, and we leave out models with a known recall. We only link new units, never renewed or used ones.
Products change and some disappear. When we update a guide, the "Updated on" date at the top changes with it.
What our picks are not
Our picks are research, not lab tests. We don't claim to have used every product we cover.
A jack is for lifting only. Never put any part of your body under a vehicle held only by a jack, and support a raised vehicle on jack stands rated for it.
Your vehicle's manual and the maker's manual decide the lift points and how to use the gear. We don't call any jack, stand or ramp safe in every situation.