Abstract: A hydraulically operated vertical vehicle lift for working under the vehicle or for storing one vehicle over a second vehicle. The vehicle lift utilizes four large U-shaped columns which house most of the moving parts. Particularly, cables traverse through the columns and around pulleys attached to cross members supporting the vehicle ramps. A hydraulic cylinder under a ramp pulls the cables around the pulleys causing the cross members and ramps to elevate. The orientation of the cables and pulleys direct the force generated while elevating and suspending a vehicle straight down from the internal top center of each column. This directional force provides a stable vehicle lift and the columns and ramps shield the moving parts from operator contact and protect the parts from exposure thereby increasing their useful life of the lift.