DNA MOTORING TOOLS-00234 Low Profile Hydraulic Trolley Service/Floor Jack, 2 Ton (4000 lbs) Capacity, Lifting Range 5.1"-13", Black

First impressions and setup

I put this 2-ton low-profile floor jack to work the way most DIYers will: tire rotations, brake jobs, and quick inspections on a compact sedan, a small crossover, and a golf cart. Out of the box, the DNA jack is straightforward—handle in, release valve checked, a few pumps to prime the hydraulics, and it’s ready. It’s compact and reasonably light for a steel jack, which matters if you’re storing it on a shelf or carrying it out to the driveway. The finish is tidy, welds look consistent, and nothing rattled or felt loose before the first lift.

Build and design

Construction is classic steel: rigid frame, fixed front wheels, and rear swivel casters. The saddle is decently sized for the class, and the release valve is integrated into the pump handle. I prefer this layout because it keeps the control right where you’re working. The overall footprint is small, which makes it easy to position under pinch welds and subframe points, even in tight garages. It’s not a featherweight, but it’s more portable than older, bulkier 2-ton models I’ve used.

The safety release valve is a key inclusion. You shouldn’t be trying to exceed capacity, of course, but it’s reassuring that the system is designed to protect itself and the operator from overload. As always with hydraulic jacks, this is a lifting tool, not a support device—jack stands are non-negotiable.

Lift range and real-world fit

Minimum height is 5.1 inches, maximum height is 13 inches. The low profile is helpful for getting under most cars, but it’s not “ultra-low.” If you have a very low-slung performance car on aftermarket springs, measure first. For typical sedans and hatchbacks, I had no access issues. On the crossover, I could still fit this jack under front or rear jacking points, but the limited 13-inch max height became the main constraint.

That 13-inch top end is the defining characteristic of this jack. It’s fine for getting a car onto low or medium stands, lifting a corner to swap wheels, or doing light service tasks. It’s less ideal for taller vehicles where you want more clearance once stands are placed. If your routine work includes crossovers and SUVs, you’ll likely want a jack that reaches 17–20 inches.

Performance under load

For a 2-ton unit, the DNA jack performs as expected. It brought my sedan up cleanly and confidently, and handled the crossover without strain when lifting at rated points. Pump count is moderate—more strokes than a dual-piston “quick lift” jack, but not excessive. I never felt like I was fighting the jack or buried in sweat just to get a wheel off the ground.

At full extension, I noticed a small amount of settling over several minutes—about half an inch in my case. That’s not unusual for budget-friendly short-cylinder jacks and is one more reason not to linger under a load before stands are set. Once I had stands in place, the jack did its job as a lifter and moved on.

Control and lowering behavior

The release valve is sensitive. It’s possible to lower slowly and smoothly, but it requires a careful touch. If you pop the valve open too far, the car will come down faster than you want. My workaround is simple: preload the stands slightly before lowering and crack the valve a fraction of a turn at a time. If you’re used to pro-shop jacks with ultra-fine control, this will feel coarse. If you’re new to trolley jacks, practice with no load, then with a lightly loaded corner, to get a feel for the valve’s range.

Mobility and ergonomics

The casters roll easily on smooth concrete and epoxy floors; like most casters, they struggle on gravel or cracked asphalt. I found it easy to nudge the jack into precise position thanks to its compact size. The handle length is on the shorter side, which limits leverage and reach under deep front overhangs. In a small garage that’s not a big deal; under a truck, it can be. A longer handle would help, but it’s a trade-off with portability.

Safety and maintenance

• Always chock the opposite wheels and work on a flat, hard surface.
• Lift vertically. This jack isn’t designed for side-loads or prying tasks.
• Use proper jack stands and a rubber pinch-weld puck or pad to protect lift points.
• Store the jack with the saddle lowered to reduce seal stress.
• If you notice spongy operation, bleed the system per the manual and check hydraulic fluid.
• If settling exceeds a small amount or happens quickly, inspect, bleed, and contact support if it persists.

These are basic habits, but they matter more with compact jacks that have short cylinders and sensitive valves.

Where it shines

• Small cars, golf carts, mowers, and other light equipment. The low profile and small footprint make positioning easy.
• Occasional DIY maintenance like rotations, brake service, and inspections. It raises to a usable height quickly.
• Tight storage and transport. It’s not cumbersome to move, and setup is fast.

Where it falls short

• Limited max height. If your workflow relies on more clearance or taller stands, 13 inches will feel restrictive.
• Valve finesse. Controlled lowering is possible, but the margin between “hold” and “drop faster than I like” is thin.
• Shorter handle. You’ll do more strokes and may struggle with reach on vehicles with deep front valances or higher lift points.

None of these are deal-breakers at this price and size, but they define who will be happiest with this tool.

Alternatives to consider

If you need more height, look for a 2–3 ton jack with a 17–20 inch max lift, ideally dual-piston for fewer strokes and better control. If portability is paramount and you only service very low cars, an ultra-low-profile jack with a 3–3.5 inch minimum height will be more versatile for slammed setups, though often at a higher cost.

Who it’s for

This is a solid pick for the home mechanic who primarily services sedans, hatchbacks, and small crossovers; for folks maintaining golf carts and lawn equipment; and for anyone with limited storage who still wants a steel jack that feels sturdy. If you’re in a professional shop or regularly lifting SUVs and trucks, you’ll outgrow the height and want a heavier-duty, taller jack.

Final recommendation

I recommend the DNA jack for light-duty, occasional use on smaller vehicles, with clear expectations around its lift range and valve behavior. It’s compact, sturdy for its class, and easy to position. It lifts confidently to a working height for most car jobs, and the built-in safety valve and stable saddle inspire confidence during the lift. The trade-offs are real: 13 inches of maximum height limits versatility on taller vehicles, and the release valve is touchy enough to demand a careful hand. If your use case fits its strengths—tight spaces, low cars, routine maintenance—it’s a dependable, budget-friendly tool that earns a spot in the garage. If you need more height or finer control, step up to a taller, dual-piston model and you’ll be happier in the long run.