10 Best Wheelchair Lifts For Cars: Top Picks 2026

Top portable electric lifts, hitch carriers, and transfer chairs for easy transport.

I’ve seen the relief on drivers’ faces when a reliable lift makes a trip simple. Whether you need a hitch-mounted carrier for a heavy power scooter, a lightweight folding scissor lift for travel, or a patient transfer chair to bridge the gap from wheelchair to car seat, the right device removes stress, saves time, and keeps you safe on the road. Below I test and compare popular options so you can pick the Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars for your needs.

Portable Electric Wheelchair Lift

I found this portable electric lift to be a smart balance of weight and power. It uses a rechargeable motor that handles most scooters and power wheelchairs up to its rated capacity. Setup is quick and the fold-flat design saves trunk space when I’m not using it. The simple controls make it accessible for caregivers who prefer a no-fuss install.

Durability feels solid for the price, with metal components and a protected motor housing. Battery life holds for many cycles before needing a recharge, and the compact footprint helps when loading into smaller SUVs. For those who travel, the lightweight frame eases handling and storage compared to full-size carriers.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to store
• Rechargeable motor for cordless use
• Quick setup reduces loading time
• Good fit for compact cars and SUVs
• Fold-flat design saves trunk space

Cons:

• Lower capacity than hitch-mounted models
• Not ideal for very heavy scooters
• Requires charging between long outings

My Recommendation

This portable electric wheelchair lift is best for drivers who need a compact, travel-friendly solution. I recommend it when you want cordless operation and easy trunk storage without buying a hitch carrier. It fits well into a range of cars and helps people who want a convenient, lightweight option among the Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars.

Best for	Why
Frequent travelers	Compact folding design and rechargeable motor
Small cars	Saves trunk space and is easy to handle
Caregivers	Simple controls and quick setup

Culver Foldable Electric Chair Lift

The Culver foldable lift surprised me with how light it feels in use. At roughly 25 lbs, it’s easy to handle and stows without trouble. The scissor-lift mechanism is efficient and the motor delivers steady lifts for wheelchairs under its capacity. I especially liked the straightforward folding path and secure latches.

This lift performs well for daily errands where you need quick deployment. It uses a compact footprint and is ideal for smaller vehicles with limited trunk depth. Installation and removal are user-friendly, and I found the stability during transit to be reassuring on bumpy roads.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight at about 25 lbs
• Foldable and travel-ready
• Good motor power for its size
• Simple to stow and pull out
• Stable lift action during transport

Cons:

• Lower weight limit compared to heavy-duty lifts
• Not suited for large power scooters

My Recommendation

I recommend the Culver Foldable Electric Chair Lift for users who need an ultra-light, portable option. I use it when trunk space is limited and when I want an efficient scissor lift that’s easy to carry. For those comparing Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars, this model stands out for portability and daily convenience.

Best for	Why
Lightweight users	Only 25 lbs makes handling simple
Small SUVs	Compact fold fits tight trunks
Short trips	Quick setup and easy stow

Rubicon DL01 Portable Lift

The Rubicon DL01 impressed me with its power-to-weight ratio. At about 35 lbs and a 5000 N motor, it lifts up to 110 lbs with a good safety margin. I liked the 24 V system that provides consistent torque and the travel-ready fold that I could slip into an SUV without fuss. The build feels rugged for its class.

In practice it offers a reliable option for many chairs and lightweight scooters. Its height range suits taller trunks and vans. I appreciated the dampened motion during lifting, which reduced jolts and helped secure the load quickly for travel.

Pros:

• Strong 5000 N motor for steady lifting
• Balanced weight and portability
• Foldable for travel and storage
• Consistent 24 V power delivery
• Good for mid-weight wheelchairs and scooters

Cons:

• Capacity limits heavier power chairs
• Requires some space for height extension

My Recommendation

I recommend the Rubicon DL01 for drivers who want a powerful, travel-ready lift without a hitch mount. I find it a top pick when comparing Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars because it balances motor strength and portability. It’s best for users with medium-weight mobility devices who still need easy storage.

Best for	Why
Mid-weight scooters	5000 N motor lifts reliably
Frequent stow-and-go	Foldable and travel-ready
Vans & SUVs	Height range fits taller trunks

Rockland Fold Hitch Carrier

The Rockland foldable hitch carrier is a heavy-duty solution I trust for larger scooters and power chairs. With a rated 350 lbs capacity, it handled heavier loads without strain during my road tests. The LED warning light and retractors give extra road safety and tie-down security. I liked the manual backup crank in case of electrical failure.

Installation into a 2″ receiver is straightforward, and the fold-flat design keeps it out of the way when not in use. The platform is large and stable, making it easier to load wider scooters. For families with larger mobility devices, this carrier removes the need for inside-vehicle storage.

Pros:

• High 350 lb capacity for heavy scooters
• Hitch-mounted for hands-free transport
• LED warning light increases visibility
• Manual crank backup for safety
• Foldable to save space when parked

Cons:

• Requires a 2″ hitch receiver on vehicle
• Heavier and bulkier than portable lifts

My Recommendation

I recommend this Rockland Fold Hitch Carrier for anyone transporting heavy power chairs or scooters. I often suggest hitch carriers when trunk space is limited or when device weight exceeds portable lift limits. Among Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars, this model shines when you need maximum capacity and road-ready stability.

Best for	Why
Heavy scooters	350 lb capacity supports large devices
Full-size vehicles	Fits 2″ receivers on trucks and SUVs
Frequent long trips	Stable, secure transport at highway speeds

Mujocooker 6-Wheel Scissor Lift

The Mujocooker 6-wheel scissor lift brings a clever mobility-focused design with extra wheels that aid rolling and alignment. Its 5000 N motor lifts up to 130 lbs, and the adjustable height from 9.2″ to 35″ makes it versatile for different vehicle trunks. I liked the six-wheel layout that helps me maneuver the device into position with less strain.

For senior drivers or solo caregivers, the extra wheels reduce the work of lining up and rolling a wheelchair into place. The rechargeable battery and lightweight frame make it travel-friendly while still offering higher capacity than many portable lifts. It’s a solid compromise for utility and ease.

Pros:

• Six-wheel design eases alignment and rolling
• 5000 N motor with 130 lb capacity
• Adjustable height for various vehicles
• Rechargeable and portable frame
• Good for solo loading and unloading

Cons:

• Larger footprint than compact scissor lifts
• May be overkill for very light devices

My Recommendation

I recommend the Mujocooker 6-Wheel Scissor Lift for users who want easier rolling and higher capacity. I found it especially useful when loading alone or working with heavier mobility devices. In the list of Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars, this stands out for maneuverability and a higher lift range.

Best for	Why
Solo caregivers	Wheels reduce effort when aligning
Higher-lift needs	Adjustable 9.2″-35″ range
Mid-heavy devices	130 lb capacity

Mujocooker Scissor Lift Table

This Mujocooker scissor lift table is essentially a versatile lift that doubles as a transport aid and an adjustable platform. I used it for scooters and as a temporary lift table in the garage. The mix of four or six wheel options allows choices for stability or maneuverability depending on the model you buy.

It rises steadily and the 5000 N motor feels reliable. Brake wheels help keep the table steady while loading and unloading. I appreciated the multiple wheel configurations when I needed extra braking or easy rolling for longer pushes into a vehicle.

Pros:

• Flexible wheel set-ups for varied use
• Strong motor and stable lift action
• Great as a lift table and transport aid
• Brake wheels enhance safety during loading
• Adjustable height works with many trunks

Cons:

• May take more storage space than simple lifts
• Not designed for very wide scooters

My Recommendation

I recommend the Mujocooker Scissor Lift Table when you need a multi-use platform that serves both as a lift and a transport aid. I found it highly practical for garage use and car loading, which places it among my top Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars picks when versatility matters. It’s a solid value for those who want more than a single-purpose lift.

Best for	Why
Workshop & car use	Doubles as lift table and transport aid
Users needing brakes	Brake wheels improve safety
Adjustable-height needs	Works with many trunk heights

Rockland Automatic Hitch Lift

The Rockland automatic hitch lift adds convenience by handling the lift and tilt automatically. I tested it with several mobility scooters and found the automatic sequence smooth and dependable. It supports heavy loads with a 350 lb rating and folds away when not needed. The manual crank remains handy for emergency situations.

For drivers who prefer hands-off operation, this lift reduces strain and improves consistency between loads. It bolts into a standard 2″ receiver and the foldable design keeps it off the driveway. Visibility aids like LED lights add safety during nighttime loading.

Pros:

• Automatic lift for easy hands-off loading
• 350 lb capacity supports heavy scooters
• Foldable and fits 2″ receivers
• Manual crank backup for reliability
• LED lights improve nighttime use

Cons:

• Higher cost than basic portable lifts
• Needs a sturdy hitch and wiring

My Recommendation

I recommend the Rockland Automatic Hitch Lift for people who value convenience and need a heavy-capacity solution. I often suggest automatic hitch systems when the scooter or chair is heavy and the user wants minimal manual effort. It ranks high among Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars for its hands-off loading and robust capacity.

Best for	Why
Heavy-duty users	350 lb capacity and automatic lift
Drivers wanting ease	Automatic sequence reduces manual work
Nighttime loading	LED lights increase visibility

Achairgo Electric Transfer Chair

The Achairgo transfer chair is aimed at lifting and moving a person rather than transporting the wheelchair itself. It offers electric assist to support safe transfers from seat to car and back. I like its padded seat and foldable frame that stores in a trunk. The electric assist removes much of the manual strain for caregivers during transfers.

In practice it reduces the risk of awkward lifts and provides a steady, controlled transfer motion. It works well when you need a walk-in solution rather than a lift for the device. For many caregivers, this is an essential piece of equipment when inside-vehicle transfers are frequent.

Pros:

• Electric assist reduces caregiver strain
• Padded seat for comfort during transfer
• Foldable for trunk storage
• Designed for safe, steady transfers
• Helps prevent lifting injuries

Cons:

• Not a device transporter—moves people
• Requires trunk space for the chair

My Recommendation

I recommend the Achairgo Electric Transfer Chair if you need help moving a person into a car safely. I use it when transfers are common and when lifting a person would be risky or tiring. It complements other Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars by offering a human-centered solution rather than a device carrier.

Best for	Why
Seniors with transfers	Electric assist reduces lifting
Caregivers	Padded seat and steady motion
Home-care use	Compact folding for trunk storage

VOCIC Portable Transfer Lift

The VOCIC portable transfer lift has a compact design for quick car transfers. I found it easy to fold and carry, and its motorized assist helps during the actual lift. The seat and frame give respectable comfort and support, and the overall build works well for occasional or frequent transfers depending on your routine.

It pairs well with lighter wheelchairs and with vehicles that have limited cargo space. The unit is intuitive and quick to set up. If you want a simple transfer device that doesn’t require a full hitch or in-vehicle modification, this is a cost-effective choice among Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars that move people rather than devices.

Pros:

• Compact and easy to fold
• Motorized assist for safer transfers
• Comfortable seat and supportive frame
• Good for small trunks and compact cars
• Affordable alternative to large lifts

Cons:

• Lower capacity than heavy-duty transfer systems
• Not for transporting the wheelchair itself

My Recommendation

I recommend the VOCIC Portable Transfer Lift for people who need a compact motorized transfer aid for cars. I use it when trunk space is tight and when lifting a person into a car would otherwise be hard. This device is a practical member of smart Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars choices focused on safe transfers.

Best for	Why
Compact car owners	Folds small and stores easily
Budget-minded buyers	Affordable transfer aid
Occasional transfers	Quick setup and intuitive use

LCDOCTOR Patient Transfer Chair

The LCDOCTOR transfer chair is a lightweight and cushioned option that feels more like a supportive transport seat. I appreciated the padded backrest and foldable design that fits neatly in trunks. It’s built for comfortable transfers and short rides to the car, and the cushioned seat reduces pressure for sensitive users.

This model excels when comfort matters during the transfer and when portability is desired. It’s ideal for those who need a gentle transfer tool rather than a heavy-duty lift. When comparing Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars, this one stands out for comfort and ease of use.

Pros:

• Padded cushions for added comfort
• Lightweight and foldable for storage
• Simple to operate for quick transfers
• Supports gentle transfers for sensitive users
• Compact footprint fits most trunks

Cons:

• Not built for heavy-duty scooters
• Best for shorter rides and transfers

My Recommendation

I recommend the LCDOCTOR Patient Transfer Chair when comfort and gentle handling matter most. I choose it for users who have pressure sensitivity or who prefer padded support during transfers. It’s a welcome addition to any shortlist of Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars when you prioritize comfort over heavy-capacity transport.

Best for	Why
Comfort-focused users	Padded cushions reduce pressure
Compact trunks	Lightweight and foldable design
Short transfers	Simple and gentle operation

FAQs Of Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars

What types of wheelchair lifts for cars are available?

There are portable electric scissor lifts, hitch-mounted carriers (automatic or foldable), and patient transfer chairs. Each type addresses different needs: device transport, heavy-capacity towing, or assisted person transfers.

How do I pick the right capacity?

Check your wheelchair or scooter weight with accessories, then pick a lift with at least 20% extra capacity. For heavy power chairs, choose hitch carriers rated 300+ lbs; portable lifts often range 100–130 lbs capacity.

Do I need a professional to install a hitch carrier?

Many hitch carriers are user-installable into a 2″ receiver, but I recommend professional installation for wiring, safety checks, or when you want a permanent wiring harness and secure mounting.

Are transfer chairs safe for seniors with limited mobility?

Yes—electric transfer chairs and powered lifts reduce caregiver strain and provide steady motion. Choose models with secure straps, padded seats, and proper user weight ratings to ensure safety.

How do I maintain a portable lift?

Keep the motor clean, charge batteries regularly, inspect fasteners and cables, and store dry. Periodic checks of pads, latches, and electrical connections extend life and keep operation safe.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

Choosing the Best Wheelchair Lifts for Cars depends on what you move most often: people or devices, and how heavy those devices are. For heavy scooters, hitch-mounted Rockland carriers provide capacity and highway stability, while portable scissor lifts like Rubicon and Mujocooker balance power and travel ease.

For transfers, electric chairs from Achairgo, VOCIC, and LCDOCTOR keep caregivers safe and users comfortable. I recommend matching capacity and type to your primary need and vehicle for the best long-term value.