Lift Kits
- Trident Motorsports
- Jan 10
- 9 min read
Updated: May 26
Austin's #1 AUTO CUSTOMIZATION Shop
Shopping for a lift kit can be a bit overwhelming. With so many options available, where do you begin? Key factors to consider include your vehicle's intended use, kit cost, warranties, and fitment. This guide will help you navigate these choices to make the best selection. Whether you plan for professional installation or a DIY approach, we strongly recommend consulting an expert early in the process to avoid potentially costly errors.
Have questions or need advice? Request-A-Quote to connect with one of our suspension experts for personalized guidance.
Contents
Best Lift Kit Brands
Below, you'll find our most recommended brands at each price point. The legend below the table explains our rating system in more detail. Consider this table as an initial reference, but feel free to contact us if you don't see a kit that matches your specific needs.
Pro Tip: For the best overall brand, we recommend BDS Suspension. Offering exceptional on- and off-road ride quality and an industry-best "No Fine Print" warranty (including off-roading!), BDS earns our top spot. While not the least expensive, BDS's unbeatable quality, reliability, and value make it a worthwhile investment.
Table: Lift Kit Brand Comparison
(scroll right to view more)
Brand (click logo to visit) |  BDS Suspension |  Rough Country |  Zone Offroad |  ReadyLIFT Suspensions |  Westcott Designs |  JKS Manufacturing |  ICON Vehicle Dynamics |  Kelderman Manufacturing |  Any Level Lift |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category | Best Overall | Economical | Intermediate | Intermediate | Intermediate | Premium | Premium | Custom | Custom |
Average Price | $$$$$ | $$$$$ | $$$$$ | $$$$$ | $$$$$ | $$$$$ | $$$$$ | $$$$$ | $$$$$ |
Application | Highway Offroad (Light) Offroad (Heavy) Show Builds | Highway Offroad (Light) | Highway Offroad (Light) Offroad (Heavy) | Highway Jeep Kits Only: Offroad (Light) | Highway Offroad (Light) | Highway Offroad (Light) Offroad (Heavy) | Show Builds | Show Builds HD Towing | |
Average Ride Quality | Excellent | Factory + | Improved | Improved | Improved | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
Height | Up to 10" | Up to 6" | Up to 8" | Up to 8.5" | Up to 6" | Up to 6" | 2"-5.5 | Up to 6" | Up to 6" |
Fitment | Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty Jeep SUV | Compact Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty Jeep SUV Crossover | Compact Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty Jeep SUV Crossover | Compact Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty Jeep SUV Crossover | Mid-Size* Full-Size* SUV* *Specializes in Toyota/Lexus, options for TRD Pro & Off-Road | Jeep | Compact Mid-Size Full-Size Heavy Duty Jeep SUV Crossover UTV | Heavy Duty | Heavy Duty |
Warranty |
Comparing Ride Quality (click to expand)
Fitment Types (click to expand)
Why Lift Your Truck?
Beyond aesthetics, lift kits and leveling kits offer many practical benefits for your truck or SUV:
Enhanced Ground Clearance & Off-Road Performance: Navigate challenging terrains with ease.
Larger Tire Accommodation: Install bigger, more aggressive tires for improved traction and a bolder look.
Improved Ride Quality: Experience a smoother, more comfortable ride on and off the road
Choosing the right lift kit and a qualified installer is critical. Continue reading to learn how to make the best decision based on your individual preferences and needs.
Lift Kit vs Leveling Kit
The main differences between these suspension modifications lie in the height achieved and which vehicle components are modified. Leveling kits focus on front-end adjustment, while lift kits elevate the entire vehicle.
A leveling kit eliminates factory "rake" (the nose-down stance) by raising the front suspension about 1"-2.5", creating a level appearance when the truck is unloaded.
Pro Tip: Retain some rake if you frequently haul heavy loads - the weight will naturally level your truck. Also, consider optional air bags or upgraded leaf springs
A lift kit raises both front and rear, with front lift typically exceeding rear by 1-2" to maintain level stance under load.
Leveling Kit | Lift Kit | |
|---|---|---|
Purpose | Raises the front suspension only, creating a level appearance | Raises both front and rear suspension |
Height | Typically 1" to 2.5" (depending on factory rake) | Typically 3" or more |
Design | Simple: Typically uses strut/coil spacers | Complex: Includes multiple components (shocks, springs, control arms) |
Installation | Fast: Typically 1-2 hours | 3-8 hours (some kits longer) |
Cost | Cost-Effective: Starting at $300+ (parts, labor, and alignment) | Substantial: Quality 3-4" kits start at $750+ (parts, labor, and alignment) |
Tire Size* | 1-2" larger diameter | 3-5" larger diameter |
Pro Tip: Before choosing wheels and tires for your lifted vehicle, be sure to check the lift kit manufacturer's recommendations for your specific model. They often list verified combinations. If you're aiming for a more aggressive or unique setup, it's wise to consult with an expert to ensure proper fitment and avoid costly mistakes.
Critical Considerations For Wheel & Tire Fitment:
Wheel Specifications: Offset and width significantly impact fitment
Trim Modifications: Plastic trimming often required for larger tires
Suspension Geometry: Improper lifts can damage CV joints/steering components
Types of Lift Kits
When it comes to lifting your truck, there are two primary options: body lift kits and suspension lift kits. Each serves a distinct purpose, offering unique advantages and considerations. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right solution for your needs.
Body lift kits use spacers or blocks to raise the truck’s body off its frame, typically by 1-3 inches. These kits do not alter the suspension system, leaving the truck’s undercarriage and ground clearance unchanged.
Suspension lift kits modify or replace suspension components (e.g., shocks, springs, control arms) to raise both the vehicle's body and frame. This increases ground clearance and improves off-road performance.
It should be noted that body lift kits may create visible gaps between the body and frame, which may require additional accessories like gap guards to conceal.
Pro Tip: Generally, suspension lift kits are much preferred to body lift kits due to their enhanced ground clearance, far superior off-road performance, increased lift height, and improved ride quality.
Body Lift Kit | Suspension Lift Kit | |
|---|---|---|
Max Lift Height | About 3 inches | 3 to 12+ inches |
Ground Clearance | No Change | Increased |
Ride Quality | Maintains Factory | Typically Improved |
Cost | Lower ($300-$800) | Higher ($800-$5,000+) |
Installation Time | 4-8 Hours | 4-8+ Hours |
Off-Road Capability | Limited | Enhanced |
Considerations When Choosing a Lift Kit
Selecting the right lift kit for your truck or SUV involves weighing several key factors. Below are the most important areas to consider before making your purchase.
Kit Cost
Lift kit pricing varies widely based on type, brand, and included components. Here’s a breakdown:
Basic Kits: Start around $500 (excluding installation).
Mid-Range Kits: Typically range from $750-$2,000, offering enhanced ride quality and durability.
Premium Kits: Can exceed $3,000, especially with upgrades like coil-overs or traction bars.
High-End Kits: Competition-level kits may cost over $20,000 for extreme performance setups.
Installation Cost
Factor in labor rates, which average $100-$120 per hour. Installation time varies by kit complexity, ranging from 1-20+ hours. Additionally, a post-installation alignment is mandatory, costing approximately $120.
Ride Quality
A quality lift kit should maintain or improve factory ride quality. For enhanced performance, consider:
Upgraded Shocks: Consider mid-grade or premium shocks provides the best value for ride improvement. Avoid skimping on this critical component. A small relatively small upgrade here can make a huge difference!
Other Add-ons: Consider coil-overs, steering stabilizers, or traction bars for further enhancements.
Intended Use
If you're planning to do any serious off-roading, ensure your lift kit is intended for off-road use and backed by a warranty covering such activities.
Height
Know your limits! Consider the total height of your vehicle post-lift:
Measure the current height of your truck at its tallest point.
Add the lift kit height and any increase from larger tires.
Allow extra clearance for parking garages, home garages, and other low-clearance areas.
Towing Capabilities
Some lift kits do not increase towing capacity and may even reduce stability when hauling heavy loads.
Body Lifts: Minimal impact on towing performance since suspension geometry remains unchanged.
Suspension Lifts: May require additional upgrades like air bags or traction bars to prevent sagging and maintain balance under load.
Solutions: Drop hitches and air suspension systems can help mitigate towing challenges with lifted trucks.
Kit Notes & Fitment Data
Always read the manufacturer’s product description thoroughly to avoid compatibility issues
Verify drivetrain (2WD/4WD), engine type (gas/diesel), trim package, and any advanced OEM features like air-ride suspension or driver-assistance systems.
Some kits may restrict factory wheel reinstallation or require specific components to be swapped out.
What Size Lift Kit Is Right For Me?
Our expert recommendation: match your kit to actual needs! Suspension kits and larger tires add weight to your vehicle (impacting fuel efficiency) and alter the handling or your vehicle (changing the center of gravity, increasing stopping distance, etc). Find the right balance between achieving the look and functionality you want, without going overboard and causing yourself a headache on the road.
Daily Drivers: 2-3" leveling kit + 33" tires
Weekend Warriors: 4-6" suspension lift + 35" tires
Hardcore Crawlers: 6-12" suspension lift + 37" (or larger) tires"
Choosing A Lift Kit Installer
After narrowing down your lift kit options, consider these points when choosing an installer. It is often advisable to purchase your lift kit from the same shop that will be installing it. Many shops are hesitant to install kits purchased elsewhere due to warranty, liability, and fitment concerns. While price may be a factor, most shops adhere to manufacturer-imposed Minimum Advertised Prices (MAP), promoting price consistency among retailers. Furthermore, many shops are willing to price match lift kit prices from major competitors if you find a lower price from a reputable source. We recommend researching the typical cost of your desired lift kit and then purchasing it through your chosen installer.
Authorized Dealers
Depending on the lift kit brand, consider ensuring your installer is an authorized dealer for that brand. Some lift kit manufacturers may void your lift kit warranty if the kit is not installed by an authorized dealer. Additionally, authorized dealers can often facilitate warranty claims for replacement parts more easily than unauthorized dealers. This is because authorized dealers typically have direct access to the manufacturer's technical support and sales representatives, while unauthorized dealers may lack such support and be limited to purchasing parts through third-party distributors.
Certifications & Experience
Lift kits can be complex, and suspension safety is paramount. While any auto repair shop or tire store may offer lift kit installations, it is important to inquire about mechanic ASE certifications (especially for suspension work) and technician experience with suspension kits.
Workmanship Warranty
In addition to the manufacturer's warranty, consider your installer's workmanship warranty. Mistakes can occur, and reputable installers will conduct a quality control inspection before returning your vehicle. They may also offer a post-installation suspension kit inspection. However, it is crucial to review your installer's workmanship warranty policy before placing a deposit or scheduling any work, in case issues arise months or years later.
Lift Kit Maintenance
Lift kits require regular maintenance—don’t assume your kit is maintenance-free once installed. Components can settle or shift over time, especially when driving off-road or navigating rough terrain. To maintain your suspension’s integrity and safety, it’s important to periodically inspect your lift kit and check/retorque bolts as needed. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to serious issues.
Your lift kit installation manual should include a post-installation inspection checklist, which should be completed immediately after installation and again at recommended intervals —usually at about 500 miles and then annually.
At Trident Motorsports, we offer free lift kit inspections for the lifetime of any lift kit installed by us.
Get Expert Assistance
Lift kits can be complicated. Mistakes can be costly. We highly recommend consulting an expert before purchasing or installing any kit.
Choosing the right lift kit requires careful planning and research tailored to your vehicle’s specifications and intended use. At Trident Motorsports, our experts are here to guide you through every step—from selecting the perfect kit to professional installation. Contact us today for personalized advice!
Live in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, Lago Vista, Marble Falls or surrounding areas? We're happy to answer any questions and provide a quote. Request-A-Quote to have one of our Automotive Customization Experts contact you.