Best Car Jack Under £100
Changing a tyre or tackling garage maintenance doesn't have to cost a fortune. We have reviewed the best car jacks under £100, focusing on lift capacity, build quality, and stability to help you choose a reliable model that won't break the bank.
Quick answer
For most drivers, the Sealey 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is the best car jack under £100. It offers a robust steel construction, a low-profile saddle for sports cars, and a proven track record for reliability. For a budget-friendly alternative, the Draper 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is a solid performer.
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Research updated June 2026.
Sealey 2 Tonne Trolley Jack
Reliable, durable, and excellent value for money.
| Product | Best For | Capacity | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sealey 2 Tonne Trolley Jack | Overall / Reliability | 2 Tonne | 4.7 / 5 | Check Price |
| Draper 2 Tonne Trolley Jack | Budget Value | 2 Tonne | 4.5 / 5 | Check Price |
| Clarke CTJ1250B Trolley Jack | Low Profile | 1.25 Tonne | 4.4 / 5 | Check Price |
| Stanley 2 Tonne Trolley Jack | Build Quality | 2 Tonne | 4.3 / 5 | Check Price |
| Sealey 3 Tonne Trolley Jack | Heavy Duty | 3 Tonne | 4.6 / 5 | Check Price |
Sealey 2 Tonne Trolley Jack
Best OverallPros
- Excellent build quality for the price
- Low minimum height for sports cars
- Smooth lifting action
Cons
- Handle can be a bit short for some users
- Not suitable for heavy-duty trucks
The Sealey 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is a staple in many UK garages for a reason. It combines a sturdy steel chassis with a reliable hydraulic system that lifts smoothly and holds securely. Owner reviews consistently praise its durability and the fact that it does not leak oil, a common issue with cheaper jacks. The low-profile saddle makes it ideal for cars with lower ground clearance, while the 2-tonne capacity covers most family saloons and SUVs.
One minor drawback is the handle length, which some users find a bit short for optimal leverage, but this is a small trade-off for the overall quality. It is a straightforward, no-fuss jack that performs exactly as expected, making it the best car jack under £100 for most people.
Draper 2 Tonne Trolley Jack
Best Budget ValuePros
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Good lifting range for most cars
Cons
- Not as robust as the Sealey
- Slightly higher minimum saddle height
If you are on a tight budget, the Draper 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is a fantastic choice. It offers a 2-tonne capacity at a price that is often significantly lower than its competitors. The jack is lighter than many others, making it easier to carry around the garage or store in the boot of a car. It lifts smoothly and has a good maximum height for most standard vehicles.
The main compromise is on the overall build quality, which is adequate but not as heavy-duty as the Sealey. The minimum saddle height is also a bit higher, so it might not fit under very low sports cars. However, for occasional home use on a standard family car, this is an excellent value pick.
Clarke CTJ1250B Trolley Jack
Best Low ProfilePros
- Very low minimum saddle height
- Compact and easy to store
- Good for low-clearance vehicles
Cons
- Lower capacity (1.25 tonne)
- Not ideal for larger SUVs
The Clarke CTJ1250B is specifically designed for cars with very low ground clearance, such as modified or sports cars. With a minimum saddle height of just 85mm, it can slide under bumpers and side skirts that other jacks cannot reach. It is also a compact unit, making it easy to store in a small garage or the boot of a car. The build quality is good for its class, with a solid feel and a smooth lifting action.
The trade-off is its lower capacity of 1.25 tonnes, which limits its use to smaller vehicles. It is not suitable for lifting heavy SUVs or vans. However, if you drive a low car, this is the best car jack under £100 for you.
Stanley 2 Tonne Trolley Jack
Best Build QualityPros
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Double-welded chassis for strength
- Large rubber saddle pad
Cons
- Heavier than competitors
- Higher minimum height
The Stanley 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is built like a tank. It features a heavy-duty steel chassis with double-welded joints, giving it a feeling of immense strength and durability. The large rubber saddle pad provides a secure grip on the vehicle's jacking point, reducing the risk of slipping. It lifts smoothly and has a good maximum height, making it suitable for a wide range of vehicles.
The main downside is its weight, which makes it less portable. It is also not as low-profile as some other models, so it may struggle with very low cars. However, for a user who prioritises strength and longevity over portability, this is a top contender.
Sealey 3 Tonne Trolley Jack
Best Heavy DutyPros
- High 3-tonne capacity for vans and SUVs
- Very stable and sturdy
- Great lift height
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Not suitable for low cars
For those who need to lift heavier vehicles like large SUVs, vans, or 4x4s, the Sealey 3 Tonne Trolley Jack is the best car jack under £100. It offers a significant 3-tonne capacity and a high maximum lift height, providing plenty of clearance for working underneath. The build quality is excellent, with a wide base for stability and a powerful hydraulic system that lifts heavy loads with relative ease.
The main trade-offs are its weight and bulk, making it a garage-only tool. It also has a high minimum saddle height, so it will not fit under low cars. But for its intended purpose, it is a fantastic, heavy-duty option.
What to Check Before Buying a Car Jack
Choosing the right car jack involves more than just looking at the price tag. The most important factor is the jack's capacity, which should always exceed the weight of your vehicle. A 2-tonne jack is sufficient for most family cars and small SUVs, while larger vehicles may require a 3-tonne model. Always check your vehicle's gross weight in the owner's manual before making a purchase.
Another key consideration is the minimum and maximum lift height. The minimum height must be low enough to slide under your car's jacking point, especially if you drive a sports car or a lowered vehicle. The maximum height should provide enough clearance to safely work underneath, usually at least 350mm. Finally, consider the build quality and the brand's reputation for reliability, as a cheap jack can be dangerous if it fails.
Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is buying a jack with a capacity that is too low for the vehicle. Always buy a jack with a capacity that is at least 20% higher than your car's weight to ensure a safety margin. Another error is neglecting to use axle stands. A car jack is only for lifting, not for supporting a vehicle for extended periods. Always use a pair of axle stands rated for the vehicle's weight once it is lifted.
Finally, do not ignore the importance of a stable, level surface. Using a jack on soft ground or an incline can cause it to slip or tip over, leading to serious injury. Always work on a flat, hard surface like concrete or tarmac.
FAQs
What is the best car jack under £100?
The Sealey 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is widely considered the best overall option for its reliability, build quality, and value.
How much weight should a car jack lift?
You should choose a jack with a capacity that is at least 20% higher than your vehicle's gross weight for a safety margin.
Can I use a car jack without axle stands?
No, you should never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use axle stands for safety.
What is a low-profile car jack?
A low-profile jack has a very low minimum saddle height, allowing it to fit under sports cars and lowered vehicles.
Are trolley jacks better than scissor jacks?
Yes, trolley jacks are generally easier to use, faster, and more stable than the scissor jacks that come with most cars.
How do I maintain a car jack?
Keep the ram clean and lubricated, check for oil leaks regularly, and store it in a dry place to prevent rust.
Can a 2-tonne jack lift a 4x4?
It depends on the weight of the 4x4. Many smaller SUVs are fine, but larger ones may require a 3-tonne jack.
What is the best budget car jack?
The Draper 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is the best budget option, offering good performance at a very low price.
Is a steel or aluminium jack better?
Steel jacks are stronger and more durable, while aluminium jacks are lighter and more portable but often more expensive.
Where should I place a car jack?
Always place the jack on the vehicle's designated jacking points, which are usually marked in the owner's manual.
Our verdict
For the vast majority of drivers, the Sealey 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is the best car jack under £100. It offers the perfect balance of reliability, build quality, and capacity for home use. If you are on a strict budget, the Draper 2 Tonne Trolley Jack is a very capable alternative that will not let you down.