Hi,

I have an 05 Accord (not that it is relevant to question asked here), and I would like to do my own oil changes and tranny fluid drains and fills. I just feel more comfortable doing it myself.

My question is, what kind of equipment is out there to lift the car (besides the standard car-jack). I would like to have all four wheels elevated at the same time so that car can be leveled but also high (AND SAFE) enough for me to slide underneath it. I heard there are some sort of "incline-steps" you can drive onto with each wheel at the same time and in such way elevate/lift your car. I have a small back yard (if it matters).

I know it is basic question, but it is an important (safety wise) one so thanks to all for input.

 

You can buy the steps you refered to almost at any autoparts store. Thats probably the safest way to do the work yourself without spending to much money. All you have to watch out for is driving over the edge of the ramps. You will have to have a spotter or look out the window to see.

 

Yup, ramps.

 

walmart has the jack ur looking for...its very costly.

 

When I lived in Ohio I had a 2-post car lift from Autolifters.

Else I think Jack stands are the best way to lift a car. I don't like ramps they simply don't have the same support or access as a good set of stands and a high quality jack.

I purchase a new jack and stand when I moved sold the lift to my dad since he had the space for it.

Craftsman sells a nice 3-ton jack, and stand should run about $50 for a nice set. I only like models with v or flat tops and pin locks, I don't like cam lock stands.

 

Yep, just jack from the front center jack point, two jack stands for the jack points behind the front tires and you are good to go. You don't need the car level with all 4 tires in the air to drain the oil and tranny.

Do youself a favor and get a nice torque wrench if you don't already have so you can tighten your drain bolts to spec.

 

id rather just drive p on a ramp but a manual is really hard because it is easy to go over the edge and the ramps like to slide foward.

 

Thank you all for your input.