2 post lifts are a workshop essential. They are versatile, space efficient and ideal for everyday servicing across cars, SUVs and light commercial vehicles. With so many models on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for your space and workload.
This guide breaks everything down so you can compare models, understand key features and choose a 2 post lift that fits your workshop layout, budget and future plans. For the full range, visit our 2 post lifts category.
1. What is a 2 post lift
A 2 post lift raises a vehicle using two posts and a set of adjustable lifting arms that pick up on the manufacturers chassis points. It gives technicians clear access to the underside of the vehicle, which makes it ideal for:
- General servicing
- Brake work
- Exhaust repairs
- Suspension work
- Tyre work and underbody inspection
Compared with other lift types, a 2 post lift offers a strong balance of access, speed and small footprint. You can see our full range of options on the 2 post lifts page.
2. Who a 2 post lift is best suited for
A 2 post lift is normally the right choice if you:
- Service a mix of cars, SUVs and light vans
- Need open access to wheels, suspension and the underside
- Want a fast, versatile lift for day to day work
- Have limited workshop space
- Want a lower cost option than a 4 post or scissor lift
Typical users include:
- Independent garages
- MOT bays for pre inspection and servicing
- Fleet workshops
- Body shops and tyre centres
A 2 post lift is less suitable for heavy commercial vehicles, very long wheelbase vans above 5 tonnes or dedicated wheel alignment work, where a 4 post lift may be a better fit.
3. Key features explained
When you compare 2 post lift models, these are the features that matter most.
Lifting capacity
Most workshop 2 post lifts sit between 3.2 tonne and 5 tonne capacity. A 4 tonne model is the most popular choice and covers the majority of cars and light commercial vehicles.
Arm type
- 2 stage arms are suited to smaller cars and hatchbacks.
- 3 stage arms offer more reach and flexibility for SUVs, pickups and vans.
Safety systems
Key safety features to look for include:
- Automatic safety locks
- Height limit switch
- Arm restraints
- Overload protection
- Emergency lowering
Lock release
Lock release is the way the safety locks are disengaged when lowering the lift. You typically choose between electric release and manual release. We cover this in more detail below.
Floor type
2 post lifts are usually offered as an H-frame or floor plate model, or as a clear floor model with an overhead crossbar. Each has benefits for different workshops.
4. Electric release vs manual release
Electric release
- Disengages the safety locks automatically from the control side
- Faster workflow and a simpler process for the technician
- Only one operator needed to lower safely
- Preferred in busier commercial workshops
Manual release
- Operates using levers on both posts
- Lower cost
- Simpler electrics and fewer components
- Ideal for lower volume use or basic budget setups
If you are running a busy garage with several lifts in constant use, an electric release model is usually the more efficient choice. If you are price sensitive and only lifting a few vehicles each day, a manual release model can still be a sensible option.
5. Floor plate vs clear floor
Floor plate or H-frame lifts
- Steel plate or frame connects the two posts at floor level
- Slightly reduces clearance under the centre of the vehicle
- Adds stiffness and stability on varied or older concrete floors
- Often the best choice for existing buildings with unknown slab quality
Clear floor lifts
- No plate at floor level between the posts
- Cables and hydraulic lines are routed in an overhead bar
- Better access under the vehicle for tall technicians and taller vehicles
- Best suited to modern workshops with known, good quality concrete
If you are unsure which style is right for your premises, our team can review your workshop layout and slab details and recommend a suitable option.
6. Single phase vs three phase power
230V single phase
- Works in most small workshops and home style garages
- Slightly slower lift and lower times in day to day use
- Ideal for lower to medium use and lighter workloads
400V three phase
- Faster lift and lower times
- More efficient for frequent, heavy daily use
- Recommended for busy commercial workshops
Many 4 tonne 2 post lifts are available in both single phase and three phase versions, so you can choose based on existing supply and usage patterns.
7. Choosing the right capacity
3.2 to 3.5 tonne lifts
- Suitable for small cars and hatchbacks
- Lower cost to purchase
- Not ideal if you regularly work on SUVs or vans
4 tonne lifts
- The most popular capacity for mixed work
- Covers most cars, SUVs, pickups and light vans
- Good all round choice for independent garages and fleet workshops
5 tonne and above
- Designed for large vans and heavier light commercial vehicles
- Often used in fleet and specialist commercial workshops
- May require extra attention to floor quality and fixings
If you are unsure, a 4 tonne lift is usually the safest starting point for a modern independent workshop. For more detail you can browse our current 2 post lift range.
8. Space and installation requirements
Every model is slightly different, but as a general guide you will need:
- Ceiling height: often 3.9 metres or higher
- Concrete depth: usually 150 to 200 mm of good quality concrete
- Floor level: within the manufacturer tolerance for level and flatness
- Width: around 3.3 to 3.5 metres overall, depending on the model
- Power: single phase or three phase supply to suit the lift
Our engineers can confirm exact requirements and advise on any remedial work before installation.
9. Safety systems to look for
A quality 2 post lift should always include robust safety features. As a minimum, look for:
- Mechanical or electromagnetic safety locks on each post
- Automatic arm locking system
- Lift pad extensions for different chassis heights
- Safety cut out at maximum height
- Cable or chain break protection
- Hydraulic safety valves to prevent sudden drop
- Clear operating instructions and safety labels
All 2 post lifts supplied by Tyre Equipment Direct include appropriate safety systems and are built to current standards.
10. 2 post vs 4 post vs scissor lifts
Not sure if a 2 post lift is right for you at all. This quick comparison may help.
| Feature | 2 post lift | 4 post lift | Scissor lift |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | General servicing and repairs | MOT lanes and wheel alignment | Tyres and quick service work |
| Access underneath | Full access | Partial access between runways | Partial, depends on layout |
| Workshop footprint | Small | Large | Medium |
| Vehicle stability | Good | Very high | Good |
| Typical cost | Medium | Higher | Medium |
If you want maximum underbody access in the smallest footprint, a 2 post lift is normally the right solution.
11. Comparison of popular 2 post lift types
| Model type | Release type | Capacity | Power | Floor style | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 tonne electric release | Electric | 4,000 kg | Single phase or three phase | H-frame or floor plate | Busy independent garages |
| 4 tonne manual release | Manual | 4,000 kg | Single phase or three phase | H-frame or floor plate | Budget conscious workshops |
| 4 tonne clear floor | Electric | 4,000 kg | Three phase | Clear floor | Modern workshops with tall vehicles |
| 5 tonne heavy duty | Manual or electric | 5,000 kg | Three phase | H-frame | Vans and light commercial fleets |
For exact specifications and current stock, visit the 2 post lifts category or contact our team for tailored advice.
12. 2 post lift FAQs
What size concrete base do I need for a 2 post lift
Most installations require between 150 mm and 200 mm of good quality concrete, but always refer to the manufacturers specification. Our team can confirm this before installation.
Are 2 post lifts safe for vans
Yes, as long as the vehicle weight is within the lift rating and the lifting points are reachable with the arms. For regular work on larger vans it is often worth choosing a 4 tonne or 5 tonne model.
Electric or manual release: which is better
Electric release is faster and simpler for the operator, so it suits busy commercial workshops. Manual release is cheaper and has fewer components, which can be useful in low use or budget situations.
Can I install a 2 post lift myself
We strongly recommend professional installation. Safe operation relies on correct fixing, level setup and proper electrical connection. Professional installation also helps with compliance and warranty.
What is the best lift for a small workshop
In most small garages a 4 tonne H-frame electric release 2 post lift gives the best balance of capacity, footprint and day to day ease of use.
If you have specific questions about layout, power or which model will work best with your mix of vehicles, get in touch with Tyre Equipment Direct and we can talk you through the options.
