Safety First – Common Problems and Essential Maintenance for Your Vehicle Lifts

If your run your own garage or workshop, you’ll know that vehicle lifts are essential equipment. They ensure safe and efficient vehicle repairs by providing mechanics with full access to the underside of cars, trucks, or motorcycles. However, with frequent use, wear and tear is unavoidable. Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping vehicle lifts functioning safely and smoothly.

Common Problems with Vehicle Lifts

Even the most reliable vehicle lifts can face issues over time. Identifying these common problems early is the first step toward ensuring a safe and functional workshop.

Hydraulic Leaks

Hydraulic systems are crucial for the operation of some vehicle lifts. Over time, seals and hoses may deteriorate, leading to hydraulic fluid leaks. This can compromise the lift’s functionality and increase the risk of unexpected failures.

Prevention tip: Regularly inspect hoses, seals, and fittings for signs of leakage. Promptly replace damaged or worn components.

Uneven Lifting

If you’ve noticed your lift raising one side of the vehicle higher than the other, this can be a serious safety concern. This is often caused by worn or stretched cables, improper maintenance, or mechanical or electronic misalignment.

Prevention tip: Test the lift’s functionality regularly. Check cables and chains for wear and ensure equal tension on both sides.

Damage to Lifting Arms or Pads

The lifting arms and pads that come into direct contact with vehicles can wear down over time, especially if used frequently for heavy-duty lifting. Damaged pads can create an unstable lift, increasing the risk of accidents.

Prevention tip: Regularly inspect lifting arms, pads, and adapters for cracks, damage, or excessive wear. Replace them as needed to ensure a secure lift.

Electrical Problems

Electrical faults in the motor, controls, or wiring can interrupt the operation of vehicle lifts. Common signs include the lift failing to operate, sudden stops, or error signals.

Prevention tip: Schedule annual inspections of the lift’s electrical components to address faults before they disrupt operations.

Rust and Corrosion

Moisture, spills, or exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals can lead to rust and corrosion on key mechanical components. Over time, this can reduce the structural integrity of your lift.

Prevention tip: Clean your lift regularly and apply protective coatings to safeguard against rust. Pay particular attention to joints and metal components.

Failure to Meet Safety Standards

Failing to comply with safety standards can put your business at significant risk. Under LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulation) vehicle lifts must be thoroughly examined every 6 months. As well as being properly maintained which is stated in PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations). The Garage Equipment Association recommend a full service inspection every 6 months.

Prevention tip: Have a GEA accredited company service your lifts regularly.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Vehicle Lifts

Preventative maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your vehicle lift while ensuring safety for operators and customers. Here are the essential steps to keep your lifts running smoothly:

Perform Daily Visual Inspections

A simple routine inspection can prevent larger problems from developing. Check for leaks, worn-out components, and visible damage to lifting systems. Daily inspections ensure any issues are identified and resolved quickly.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Proper lubrication keeps all moving components, such as lift chains, pulleys, and screws, operating efficiently. Without lubrication, these parts can seize up, leading to wear and eventual failure.

Test Safety Features Regularly

Your lift should have built-in safety mechanisms, such as locks or fail-safe systems. Perform routine tests to confirm they are functioning properly. This precaution helps to prevent accidents, especially during long-term heavy use.

Clean Your Lifts

Dirt, grime, and oil buildup can affect lift performance. Regularly clean your vehicle lift, particularly after a busy week in the garage. Use appropriate cleaning solutions to avoid corrosion.

Stick to Manufacturer Guidelines

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This includes routine services such as lubrication, part replacement, and adhering to the safe working load capacity.

Professional Servicing

While in-house maintenance is important, professional servicing is essential. The GEA recommends 6 monthly services on all vehicle lifts. Certified technicians can perform a comprehensive check of your lift, ensuring it operates within safety standards. Thorough examination (e.g. Insurance inspection) is in addition to, not a substitute for regular maintenance/servicing.

How Automotive Tools Can Help

At Automotive Tools, we understand the importance of reliable and safe vehicle lifts for your business. As an authorised distributor of OMCN products, we have over 35 years of experience providing high-quality garage equipment to businesses of all sizes throughout the UK. Whether you need 2-post car lifts, 4-post lifts, scissor lifts, or bespoke solutions, we’re here to help.

Here’s how Automotive Tools can support your lift maintenance and operational needs:

A Wide Range of Vehicle Lifts

Our extensive product range includes mechanical and hydraulic lifts designed for every type of vehicle, from cars and motorcycles to vans and HGVs. Whether you’re looking for mobile column lifts, scissor car lifts, or anything else, we have you covered.

Genuine Spare Parts

We stock genuine OMCN spare parts, ensuring your lifts can be repaired with high-quality components that match their original specifications. From hydraulic seals to lifting arms, we provide the parts you need to fix problems quickly.

Expert Recommendations

Not sure which lift or part is right for your business? Speak to one of our experienced team members for tailored advice. We assess your operational requirements and recommend equipment that matches your budget, space, and applications.

Comprehensive Repair Services

Our team offers garage equipment repair services to keep your lifts running at peak performance. Whether you need a one-off repair or ongoing servicing, Automotive Tools’ expert technicians are here to help.

After-Sales Support

We pride ourselves on offering outstanding after-sales support. From installation guidance to troubleshooting assistance, our team is always on hand to help.

Why Safety Always Comes First

Vehicle lifts are the backbone of any automotive workshop, allowing for efficient and safe vehicle servicing. However, to ensure they continue operating reliably, regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential. Neglecting lift safety can result in accidents, equipment damage, and costly downtime for your business.

At Automotive Tools, we are committed to helping you maintain the highest standards of operational safety and efficiency. By supplying top-quality vehicle lifts, genuine spare parts, and expert advice, we ensure your garage remains well-equipped to handle any challenge.

Ready to elevate the performance of your garage? Contact Automotive Tools today to explore our range of vehicle lifts and discover how we can support your business.