When building or renovating a garage, one of the most important considerations is sizing. Ensuring your garage is wide enough to accommodate your vehicle is crucial for both functionality and safety. But how wide does a garage need to be to fit a car? The answer isn’t universal—several variables come into play depending on the type of car you own, your storage needs, and whether the garage will be used for other purposes.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different car sizes and types, explore standard garage dimensions, and explain how to determine the right width for your specific setup. Whether you drive a sedan, an SUV, or a truck, this article will provide you with actionable insights to ensure your garage is the right width.
Understanding Vehicle Dimensions
Before determining how wide a garage should be, it’s essential to understand the dimensions of your vehicle. The width of a car can vary significantly based on the type, model, and purpose.
Standard Car Widths
Most passenger cars today have the following widths:
- Compact Sedans: 66 to 70 inches (5.5 to 5.8 feet)
- Mid-Size Sedans: 70 to 74 inches (5.8 to 6.2 feet)
- Full-Size Sedans: 74 to 76 inches (6.2 to 6.3 feet)
- Crossovers and SUVs: 74 to 80 inches (6.2 to 6.7 feet)
- Trucks and SUVs (Full-size): 80 to 90 inches (6.7 to 7.5 feet)
Keep in mind that these are approximate figures. For example, the Ford F-150 is around 82 inches wide without mirrors, while the Toyota Corolla is roughly 70 inches. A good rule is to check your particular vehicle’s specifications—always measure from the widest point (excluding mirrors) to be precise.
The Standard Garage Widths
Garages come in various widths based on their intended use and local building codes. Here’s an overview of common garage widths:
One-Car Garage
A standard one-car garage is typically between 12 to 16 feet wide. However, the ideal width for a comfortable fit without crowding the sides is around 14 to 15 feet. That leaves about 7 to 9 feet of clearance on each side, assuming a mid-size sedan (7 feet wide) is parked inside.
Two-Car Garage
Two-car garages are usually between 20 to 24 feet wide. This provides enough space for two mid-size cars parked side-by-side, with some additional room for movement or storage. The ideal minimum width for a two-car garage is 22 feet to provide a comfortable 10.5 feet per side for each vehicle (considering about 1.5 feet of clearance between the two cars).
Three-Car Garage
Three-car garages typically start at 32 feet wide and can go up to 36 feet. These are designed to accommodate a range of car sizes with additional storage flexibility. With 32 feet, each vehicle can have about 9 to 10 feet of space, depending on how the vehicles are arranged.
How Much Clearance Do You Need?
Garage width is not just about fitting the car inside. It’s about having enough space to move around it comfortably, open doors without bumping into walls or other objects, and potentially store tools or equipment. Here are some important factors to consider.
Recommended Side Clearance
It’s generally recommended to have 2 to 3 feet of clearance on each side of the car. This allows for ease of entry and exit, as well as space for storage if you plan on keeping bikes, bins, or tools next to your car. This clearance also helps prevent unintentional scratches or dents when moving items in and out of the garage.
Front and Back Clearance
While width is the main topic, don’t forget about front and back clearance. If you plan on using an automatic garage door opener or want to have space to maneuver in and out of the garage, it’s wise to have an extra 2 to 3 feet of depth in the garage.
Door Clearance
The garage door’s width should correspond to the door that will be installed. Standard single-car garage doors are typically 8 to 9 feet wide, while two-car garage doors are 16 to 18 feet wide. Ensure that the door is not too narrow for the garage opening to avoid issues with alignment and function.
How to Measure and Calculate Required Garage Width
To calculate your ideal garage width, follow these steps:
- Measure Your Car: Determine the total width of your vehicle, excluding side mirrors. Record this measurement in feet.
- Determine the Number of Cars: Decide how many vehicles you plan to store in the garage. This will help determine the base width.
- Add Clearance: For each vehicle, add the recommended clearance space on both sides. This usually adds up to about 4 to 6 feet total for side clearance.
- Consider Other Objects: If you plan to store other items like tools, bikes, gardening equipment, or a workbench, add additional space accordingly.
For example:
| Item | Width (feet) |
|---|---|
| Mid-size Sedan | 6.2 |
| Clearance (per side) | 2.5 |
| Total for One Car | 6.2 + 2.5 + 2.5 = 11.2 feet |
Thus, a 12-foot wide garage would be the minimum for a single mid-size sedan with some flexibility. The same calculation applies to multiple vehicles but scaled accordingly.
Types of Garages and Their Ideal Widths
Different garage styles and configurations can also affect how wide your garage should be. Here’s an overview of common types:
Attached Garages
An attached garage is connected directly to the home and is typically built according to standard home plans. These garages often match the dimensions of the house or specific architectural features. If you have an attached garage, the width is usually determined by how many cars you want inside and the available space on your lot.
Detached Garages
Detached garages offer more flexibility in size and configuration. However, you still want to consider the same width rules based on vehicle and storage requirements.
Side-Entry vs. Front-Entry Garages
Side-entry garages may affect how much clearance you need for pedestrian access or driveway space. Side-entry garages generally allow for better curb appeal but still require adequate width to accommodate the same vehicles.
Factors That Affect Your Garage Width
Several additional considerations can change how wide your garage needs to be:
Type of Car (Sedan, SUV, Truck)
As previously mentioned, different car types significantly impact the required width. Compact cars take up less room, while larger trucks may need a minimum width of 18 feet for a single vehicle, especially if you want space to move around it.
Usage of the Garage
More than just a place to park your car, a garage can double as a storage space, workshop, or even a living space. If you plan to use it beyond just parking, you might need to add 1 to 2 feet of width for each activity planned.
Side Mirrors
Although not part of the car’s measured width in official specs, side mirrors can extend beyond the body by 3 to 7 inches on each side. If you want those mirrors to fold in without scraping walls or other vehicles, consider adding that extra space into the garage width.
Garage Door Opener Clearance
If you’re installing a garage door opener with an automatic lift system, the opener’s mechanism requires a certain amount of vertical and horizontal clearance. This can affect how much usable space you have when calculating garage width for parking.
Variations in Local Building Codes
Building codes can impact garage dimensions. Different regions or municipalities may have minimum requirements for garage widths to ensure safety and accessibility.
Why Codes Vary
Codes vary depending on environmental factors, lot sizes, and local zoning laws. In some cases, building departments may have strict rules about where the garage can be placed on the lot, which can indirectly influence minimum width.
Tips for Checking Local Requirements
Always consult with your local zoning board or municipality before finalizing your garage construction plans. They can provide precise minimums and maximums for garage size based on your area’s building code.
Custom Sizing Your Garage
If standard widths don’t match your specific needs, custom garage design may be your best option. Custom sizing allows you to tailor the garage width specifically for your:
- Vehicle type(s)
- Storage preferences
- Room for future additions
- Gym or workshop area (if applicable)
This is particularly useful for homeowners with unique needs, such as high-end automobiles, classic car collections, or oversized vehicles like RVs or boats.
Summary of Recommended Garage Widths
Here’s a quick table summarizing the ideal garage widths for various vehicle combinations:
| Garage Type | Min. Recommended Width | Average Garage Door Width |
|---|---|---|
| Single Compact Car | 12 – 14 ft | 8 – 9 ft |
| Single Mid-size or Full-size Car | 14 – 16 ft | 9 ft |
| Two Mid-size Cars | 20 – 24 ft | 16 – 18 ft |
| Three Cars | 30 – 36 ft | 18 – 20 ft |
| Wide Truck or SUV | 18 – 20 ft | 10 – 12 ft |
Conclusion: Ensure the Right Fit
In summary, how wide a garage needs to be to fit a car depends on multiple variables including vehicle size, number of vehicles, required clearances, and usage. While minimums can range from 12 feet for compact cars to over 20 feet for larger trucks, aiming for adequate clearance and comfort will prevent headaches later.
Whether you’re building a simple single-car garage or planning a multi-vehicle workshop, taking the time to understand your vehicle’s dimensions and planning accordingly is key. Invest in the right width now, and you’ll enjoy a safer, more functional space for years to come.
Don’t forget that customizing your garage to fit your specific needs—especially if you own a wide or unusual vehicle—can make all the difference. Remember, the wide garage isn’t just about fitting a car—it’s about fitting your lifestyle.
So, take measurements, consult professionals, and make an informed decision when determining your ideal garage width.
How wide does a garage need to be to fit a standard car?
A standard garage designed to accommodate an average car should be at least 12 feet wide. This width allows for a typical car, which ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 feet in width, to fit comfortably with enough clearance on both sides for opening doors and moving around the vehicle. Side clearance is particularly important if you plan to store items along the walls or use the garage for purposes beyond just parking.
If you drive a larger vehicle such as a pickup truck or an SUV, it may be wise to consider a garage width of 14 to 16 feet. This ensures that you can open doors without hitting walls or stored equipment and provides extra space for storage or workspace areas. Always verify the width of your specific vehicle and add a minimum of 2 to 3 feet on each side to ensure comfort and ease of movement within the space.
What are the standard widths for single and double garages?
Single garages typically range from 12 to 16 feet in width, accommodating a standard sedan or compact SUV. A 12-foot width is commonly sufficient for most passenger vehicles, though some homeowners opt for 14 or 16 feet to allow for easier movement and storage space. The height and depth of the garage also play roles in overall usability, but width is the primary dimension determining vehicle fit.
Double garages usually range from 20 to 24 feet wide to accommodate two vehicles parked side by side. Each bay is often around 10 to 12 feet wide, which allows for two average-sized cars with adequate door clearance. For larger vehicles or if additional workspace or storage is desired, widths beyond 24 feet may be necessary, depending on personal needs and usage plans.
Can I fit a larger vehicle in a standard-width garage?
Fitting a larger vehicle like a full-size pickup or an SUV into a standard-width garage (12 feet) is possible but may result in tight clearances. If the vehicle is wider than 6.5 feet, you might struggle to open doors fully without touching the garage walls, which can cause damage over time. Consider the vehicle’s exact dimensions and whether you are willing to maneuver carefully every time you park.
To improve usability, it’s often worth considering expanding the garage width during construction or looking for a pre-built garage that better suits the vehicle’s size. Alternatively, you can install wall protection like garage bump guards or park the vehicle slightly angled if local building regulations allow. These measures can mitigate tight fits but may not fully replace having additional space.
How much clearance should be on each side of the car in the garage?
Experts recommend at least 2 feet of clearance on each side of the car within a garage. This allows for easier door opening, safe movement around the vehicle, and additional room for storage solutions like shelves or hook systems. Without adequate clearance, daily use of the garage can be inconvenient and may lead to accidental dents or scratches.
In tight spaces, even 1.5 feet can work, but this should be a minimum rather than an ideal target. If you plan to walk behind the car or store large items inside the garage, more clearance is always better. Consider how you’ll be using the space beyond just parking a car before finalizing the garage width.
Is it possible to build a garage that’s narrower than 12 feet?
Technically, a garage can be built narrower than 12 feet, especially to fit smaller vehicles such as compact cars, motorcycles, or golf carts. However, the usability of such a space will be limited, especially if you need to exit the vehicle inside the garage or have storage requirements. In these cases, a width between 8 and 10 feet may suffice, depending on local zoning laws and the intended use.
Narrower garages are not recommended for everyday vehicles due to the difficulty of safely entering and exiting the car. If space constraints are unavoidable, consider alternative solutions such as offset parking, installing roll-up doors that accommodate angled entry, or using the garage solely for storage once the car is parked outside. Always check with local building codes before designing a narrower than standard garage.
Does the garage door width matter if the garage is wide enough?
Yes, the garage door width is a crucial aspect of ensuring a vehicle fits comfortably. Even if the internal garage width is sufficient, the door must provide enough clearance for the vehicle to enter and exit safely. Typically, the garage door should be at least a foot wider than the vehicle to allow for smooth access and to prevent scraping along the door frame.
Selecting the proper door type, such as a sectional door or an overhead door, also affects usability. For oversized vehicles or limited driveway space, consider a door that opens vertically with minimal front clearance needed. Always coordinate the garage door size with the overall dimensions of the garage during planning.
Can I modify an existing garage to make it wider?
It is possible to widen an existing garage, but the cost and complexity of the project depend on the current structure and local building regulations. Widening may require relocating or removing a wall, extending the roofline, and obtaining permits. This type of renovation typically requires the help of a structural engineer and a licensed contractor to ensure the modification is safe and up to code.
If widening the garage is not feasible, alternative solutions include shifting the vehicle parking forward or to the side, adding swing-out doors for easier access, or reorganizing the interior to create more room. Before undertaking any modification, evaluate whether the investment is worth the benefit or if parking the vehicle outside with a cover or carport is a more practical solution.