Contrary to popular notion, mechanics aren’t the only people who can benefit from the best mechanics creeper.
Even if you are a weekend warrior who likes to tinker occasionally with machines and tools, and part of your projects involve accessing cramped, low-profile spaces, like the underbelly of a car or a truck, then a car creeper will make life easier for you.
It’s a platform on wheels, that gives your back and your neck a comfortable resting position, while making it easier to get in and out of that space.Â
It can of course, have a lot more features depending on what make and model you choose. Like folding into a stool when not in use.Â
But there are at least a thousand different models to choose from, and we wouldn’t blame you if you are in over your head while trying to find one that works for you.Â
That’s where we step in. We have narrowed down on the best mechanics creepers in 2020 for you.Â
Strap in and enjoy the read.
Table of Contents
Best Overall Mechanics Creeper- Omega 91000
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Omega 91000 is a multipurpose car creeper that can be folded into a stool in a jiffy.Â
Just pull out one locking pin, raise the neck rest and insert the pin again. Your creeper is now a sturdy stool with a seat that’s 14” off the floor. That’s a comfortable height for most side-of-the-car maintenance tasks. Â
The entire frame is stainless steel and the construction is top notch, without any jagged edges or burrs.Â
When used as a creeper, it is a 40” platform with an adequately padded seat and headrest. It is extremely comfortable and is rated for 450 lbs., which means even a tall and heavy user should easily be able to work with it.Â
Under the deck, you have 6 x 3” polyurethane casters with ball bearings, that move effortlessly on your garage floor. Now, if you work outside on gravel or if your garage floor has uneven bumps or pits, the casters are more important than you think. These are one of the top rated casters in the business.Â
One minor complaint that some customers have had with this, is that the assembly instructions are poorly written. But that’s the case with most of the stuff that you order online. Besides, it’s just three pieces that you need to put together. I guess that’s a no-brainer.Â
Best features
- Automotive creeper that folds into a stool
- Heavy duty steel frame
- 40” padded platform with backrest and neck rest
- Rated for 450 lbs.Â
- Smooth moving platform supported by 6 x 3” Polyurethane casters with ball bearings.Â
Best Budget Car Creeper – Pro-Lift C-2036DÂ
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Pro-Lift C-2036D is a two-in-one creeper with a sleek, powder-coated steel frame, and one of the most thickly padded vinyl cushions in this list.Â
This translates into a very comfortable backrest while you are under the vehicle.Â
Also, if you are a mechanic and your work involves bending down and up repeatedly, you can use this as a resting pad for your knee caps.
It’s a 36” mechanics creeper when flat, and the seat is divided into three parts. The smallest one serves as the neck rest and can be pulled up turning it into a Z-shaped mechanical seat that’s 14” off the floor.Â
There are 6 ball-bearing, swivel caster wheels under the creeper that perform very well on smooth flooring and reasonably well on gravel. It’s not the most ideal choice for a rough gravel path though.Â
The heavy duty steel frame is rated for 300 lbs. and does not creak, groan or wobble under the weight.Â
The max weight load capacity is a little less as compared to our #1 pick, the Omega 91000. So, if you or one of the possible users of this car creeper weigh more than 300 lbs., you might want to check that one instead.Â
Best features
- Sleek, powder-coated steel frame
- Folds into a Z-shaped mechanics seat
- Easy pull-out pin design for folding and unfolding
- Seat is 14” off the ground
- 36” creeperÂ
- With swivel casters for smooth movement
- Rated for 300 lbs.Â
Best Creeper Stool With a Tool Tray – Todocope
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Todocope is one of the largest mechanic creepers that you can buy.
 It’s a whopping 47” in length and a comfortable 18” wide, with plush vinyl coated padding.Â
If you are a large guy and find conventional creepers a little too petite for comfort, this will fit the bill.Â
The frame is heavy duty steel and it has a max weight load capacity of 300 lbs. Does not bend or creak under the weight.Â
When it’s not in use as a car creeper, it can be folded into a Z-shaped mechanics stool.Â
What’s amazing is that when it transforms into a stool, there’s a hidden, flush mounted tool tray that sort of glides out from under the seat. It’s not very huge, mind you. But it’s a very useful addition to the creeper and allows you to park your frequently accessed tools within arm’s reach.Â
Another thing that we really like about the Todoscope is that due to the large padded surface, you have a huge lower tier on the Z-shaped stool when folded. That can also be put to use to park tools or a refreshing beverage.Â
Giving you 360-degree mobility in your workspace, are 7 heavy duty casters that are exceptionally good quality. Should glide on smooth surfaces, and also be able to tackle the occasional bump and pebble without flinching.Â
Best features
- Largest mechanic creeper in this list
- Creeper is 3” off the ground
- 47” long and 18” wide, plush-padded working surface
- Can be folded into a Z-shaped stool
- Comes with a hidden, flush mounted tool tray
- 7 heavy duty caster wheels for 360-degree movement
Best Mechanic Creeper with an Adjustable Headrest – Performance Tool W85005
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A lot of times, when you are under the car on a creeper and you want to reach up to clean something or to tighten a wrench, you have to crane your neck, which can be extremely uncomfortable.Â
The W85005 from Performance Tool comes with an adjustable, tilting headrest that can be adjusted to two elevated positions. You can pick one that’s comfortable enough to perform the task.
Elevating it is super simple. Just pull on it until it locks into place with a loud audible click. To release, just pull on a lever behind the headrest and it unlocks and goes flat.Â
The W85005 is crafted from a heavy duty, tubular steel frame and is rated for 300 lbs. It is a 40” x 17” creeper that’s 4” off the ground. So it’s a reasonably low-profile design.Â
Lastly, there are 6 x 2 ½” casters under the creeper. Unlike the casters on budget-priced models, this one has a shielded design, which makes it less likely that it will get jammed due to dirt and dander.Â
The only possible nit that one can pick in this, is that it’s not a multifunctional tool that can be turned into a stool. But unless you really need a mechanic’s seat, that feature is just overkill.Â
This is a very well designed automotive creeper and does a fine job for the primary, intended use.Â
Best features
- 40” long x 17” wide creeper
- Thick, padded surface
- Adjustable neck rest that elevates to two positions
- Crafted from a heavy duty, tubular steel frame
- Rated for 300 lbs.Â
- 2 ½” shielded casters
Best Plastic Car Creeper – Omega Lift Mechanic Plastic Creeper
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
There’s a common misconception amongst automotive enthusiasts that plastic creepers cannot match up to the quality of old metal ones.Â
The Omega Lift plastic creeper should end any such skepticism that you may have.Â
It pretty blows most of the competition out of the water with its features and its durability.Â
It has a one-piece construction and is blow molded out of HDPE plastic, which has high tensile strength and is chemical resistant to boot.Â
This mechanics creeper weighs just 15 lbs., but has a max weight load capacity of a whopping, 440 lbs. Also, at 48” long and 23” wide, it’s the largest working surface that you can get in this list.
We really like the contoured one-piece backrest. It’s large, spacious and as comfortable as a padded one. The twin molded-in trays improve your productivity and make for a great addition to access your tools when you are in a cramped space.
The creeper is perched on 6 multi-terrain swivel casters that can tackle any type of surface without veering off track or getting bogged down.Â
One differentiating factor though is the price. People in general, expect plastic tools to be cheaper than metallic ones. But the Omega Lift is pricier than some of the other options in this list.Â
We firmly believe that when it comes to automotive and industrial tools, you get what you pay for. In this case, this is hands down, the best mechanics creeper in this list, and it’s completely worth every extra dime that you pay for it.Â
Best features
- Sturdy HDPE plastic that’s chemical resistantÂ
- Weighs just 15 lbs. and has a max weight capacity of 440 lbs.Â
- 48” long and 23” wide surface
- Contoured, universal fit backrest
- 6 multi-terrain swivel casters
- 4” height
Best Low Profile Creeper – Omega-91400
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Omega 91400 is a super low profile creeper that’s provides a ½” ground clearance.Â
If you find conventional creepers a little too high for your liking, then this is just what you need. It allows you to easily get into the most space-constrained settings with ease.Â
It’s a 41” long work surface that has plush vinyl coated padding to keep your back comfy. The frame is heavy duty steel and it is tough as nails.Â
This is one of the few mechanic creepers in this list that’s rated for 400 lbs. There’s no flex to the frame even when a heavy, tall user is lying down on it.Â
It also features one of the biggest casters that you’ll find on mechanic creepers. These industrial grade casters are attached on an outrigger frame rather than under it. This allows them to easily glide over bumpy, uneven surfaces, like the ones that are found in garages.Â
Even if you work outside, this will not get stuck due to a pebble or a bump.Â
Overall, the Omega 91400 is a phenomenal choice. It might seem like a barebones design as compared to the fancier models in this list. But it’s sturdy, it’s low profile and it’s rated for 400 lbs. Hard to beat that.Â
Best features
- Sturdy metallic frame rated for 400 lbs.Â
- Super low profile design. Sits just ½” over the ground
- Industrial grade 3” castersÂ
- 41” long working surface
- Plush padded for comfort
- Easy gliding motionÂ
Coolest Design Automotive Creeper – Big Red TR6452
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Torin Big Red TR6452 is a medium-sized rolling mechanics creeper, and as implied by the name, it comes in bright red.Â
How’s that for an eye-catching addition to your garage?Â
Aesthetics apart, it’s a very sturdy automotive creeper with a heavy-duty tubular steel frame, and has a max weight capacity of 250 lbs. That might seem tepid in comparison to our 400 lbs. ones. But hey, it might be all that you need.Â
The backrest is thickly padded with a double-stitched vinyl cover that’s chemical resistant and easy to clean. It’s a very comfortable work surface and features an adjustable headrest, which is always a welcome addition.Â
However, the headrest has to be locked into position using a basic latch mechanism, which feels like a letdown. It’s prone to problems and many customers have noticed that it only works flawlessly in the highest position.Â
That should not be a deal breaker though, if you only intend to use this as a basic creeper without ever engaging the adjustable headrest.Â
The Big Red creeper sits about 4.4” off the ground, which is a comfortable height for a variety of applications. Six caster wheels provide 360-degree mobility.Â
Torin is a very reputed brand in the automotive spares business. Despite a few tiny niggles, the Big Red is a pretty good creeper for the price.Â
Best features
- Bright red vinyl covering
- Sturdy, tubular steel frame
- Plush padded backrest
- 40” long work surface with an adjustable headrest
- 4.4” off the ground
- Six caster wheels for 360-degree mobility
Top Rated Plastic Creeper – Lisle Jeepers Creeper
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lisle Jeepers Creeper is one of the most widely used plastic mechanic creepers by DIYers and auto enthusiasts. It has been around for more than 20-years and is considered as one of the best mechanic creepers that you can buy.Â
It has a very basic, skateboard-like design with an ergonomic body-fitting backrest that’s 38” long and almost 18” wide. The one-piece body is crafted from HDPE and weighs just 11.5 lbs., but can carry a maximum weight load of 300 lbs.Â
Make no mistake, this is a very sturdy creeper, even for tall and heavy guys. To top it off, it’s very low profile and offers 7/8th of an inch of floor clearance.Â
This best creeper features grooved handles on three sides that allow you to carry it easily or hang it in the garage.Â
On the underbelly, you have six 2-inch swivel rollers with urethane casters that are renowned for their longevity. These are corrosion resistant and work flawlessly on a variety of surfaces. In case you do need to replace them, swapping them is super easy as well.Â
If you are looking for a tried and tested mechanics creeper, go for the Lisle Jeepers Creeper. We are sure that you cannot go wrong with this.Â
Best features
- Top rated mechanics creeper for over two decades
- Basic, skateboard-like designÂ
- Ergonomic body-fitting backrest
- 38” long and 18” wide
- One-piece body crafted from HDPE
- Weighs just 11.5 lbs. and has a max weight capacity of 300 lbs.Â
- Low profile design with 7/8th of an inch ground clearance
Best Snap-On Mechanics Creeper – Williams 42301
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Williams 42301 is an American-made low profile automotive creeper that has been around for years.Â
It is made by Snap-On, although the Snap-On brand now retails for more than 2x the price of this one.Â
This is a very sturdy creeper that’s made with 16 gauge, 3/4-Inch square stock steel. It’s rated for 300 lbs., but there are customers who weight a lot more and have used this with zero problems.Â
It’s built like a tank. The only difference is that this one’s padded with a 1” thick cushion on top. Keeps you comfy while you work.Â
We also like the drop-rail design that increases the clearance for your shoulders and arms, when you are under the vehicle. It seems like a gimmick at first, but it’s a very useful feature.Â
The 2 ½” hooded casters offer great mobility, while also protecting your clothes from getting snagged and stained with grease.Â
For buyers who want a time-tested American made mechanics creeper, look no further.Â
Best features
- Time-tested design made by Snap-On
- Made in America
- 16 gauge, 3/4-Inch square stock steel
- Rated for 300 lbs.Â
- 1” thick cushioned backrest
- Drop rail design that increases clearance for shoulders and arms
- 2 ½” hooded castersÂ
Best Mechanics Creeper for Outdoor Use – Traxion 1-100 ProGear
Last update on 2021-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Traxion 1-100 ProGear Creeper glides over the most brutal terrain.Â
It features massive 5” casters made of TPR synthetic rubber that will not get bogged down by pits or pebbles.Â
Despite the huge wheels, it is surprisingly low profile. That’s due to the outrigger steel frame that provides you with a 2” ground clearance, which is phenomenal.Â
The 40” long and 22” extra wide contoured deck is amply padded and makes for a comfortable work surface, even for prolonged use.Â
With a 400 lbs. max weight rating, even the tallest and heaviest users will find the creeper a stable and sturdy choice.Â
Now, this is a very wide creeper and you may find it a little to navigate through narrow spaces, like between jack stands for example. If that’s something that bothers you, then do check some of the other options in this list.
Best features
- Massive 5” caster wheels with TRP rubber coating
- Rugged outrigger steel frame
- Super low profile with 2” ground clearance
- 40” long and 22” wide deck
- 400 lbs. max weight rating
How to Select The Best Mechanics Creeper
To someone who’s new to this, the best mechanics creeper might appear like an overrated, wheeled platform that allows you to get underneath a vehicle.
What’s the big deal about it anyway?Â
But anyone who’s used one of these would know that there’s a lot more to it than what meets the eye.Â
A quality creeper is an invaluable addition to a workspace that improves productivity, keeps you comfortable and allows you to easily maneuver your way through a cramped space.Â
Here are some of the most important factors to consider while you shop for one of these.Â
Ground Clearance
The ground clearance is hands down, the most important thing to consider before you buy a creeper, especially if you do not have an overhead mobile lift. Some vehicles have terrible ground clearance and you need a creeper with recessed wheels, or an outrigger frame to be able to access the underbelly comfortably.
Always remember that you will need a fair bit of room above the deck to work freely. So if ground clearance is a concern, pick one of the low profile designs that we’ve listed.Â
Material – Metal vs. Plastic
To be fair, this does not make much of a difference to the performance or the longevity of the creeper. Most HDPE plastic creepers have better weight load capacities than their metal counterparts. Moreover, these are usually crafted from a single piece of plastic, which means fewer parts and hence, fewer chances of a malfunction. So, pick one that works for you. We have listed some great options in both plastic and metal.Â
Types of Automotive Creeper
There are two types of creepers that you can find.Â
- Conventional : A conventional creeper is essentially a single piece of plastic or plywood affixed on a frame and fitted with casters for mobility. Almost like a skateboard. The backrest design can vary depending on the model you select. It can be padded or unpadded or contoured. Despite seeming unassuming in its appearance, conventional creepers are quite effective and very popular with professional mechanics.Â
- Folding: Folding creepers can be pulled up to transform it to a stool or a mechanic’s seat. The advantage is that these are very useful for someone looking to service the sides of their vehicle. The caveat is that these usually have a thicker profile which makes it difficult to maneuver into cramped spaces.Â
Backrest
Always pay close attention to the quality of the backrest. If you are young, then a plastic mechanic creeper with a contoured backrest might work fine for you. But after a few years, you may start to crave a padded one. There’s no doubt that padded backrests are way more comfortable than unpadded ones. So think ahead and buy one that will work for the next few years.Â
Casters
What kind of surface do you plan to use the best mechanics creeper on? Most creepers are made for use on smooth surfaces and will start to stutter the moment they encounter the slightest of bumps. If you plan to use it outdoors, or in a garage with an uneven floor, buy one with large casters.Â
Hooded casters with ball bearings offer a snag-free and smooth ride. Open bearing designs tend to get jammed very easily. Also, your clothes will end up in them a lot more than you imagine.Â
Lastly look at how the casters are affixed to the frame. Believe it or not, even the sturdiest of casters will end up biting the dust after a while. You should be able to swap them out easily, if need be.Â
FAQ
Q. Do you really need a mechanics creeper?
A. If you work frequently under a car, or in a similar cramped space, then yes. You definitely need a mechanics creeper, unless you fancy crawling into such a setting that is. A creeper will help prevent injuries, it will keep you comfortable, it will make it easier to access and move around in such a space. It’s a no-brainer choice almost.Â
Q. What’s the ideal height for the best mechanics creeper?Â
A. That depends on the intended application. Low profile creepers are versatile and can be used even with vehicles that have the least ground clearance. But if the surface is bumpy, you might have to choose between the height and selecting one with large casters. Something like the Traxion 1-100 might be a decent middle ground.Â
Q. What’s a decent price range for a quality creeper?
A. The pricing for the best mechanics creeper can vary extensively. At the lower end of the price range, you have creepers priced at $20-30. At the higher end, you can expect to pay up to $250 for a professional-grade unit. Like they say, you get what you pay for. So choose wisely.Â
This list has a wide variety of creepers at different price points. We hope that you can find one that fits your budget.Â
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