When it comes to modifying a vehicle, especially trucks and SUVs, two popular upgrades that come to mind are suspension lift kits and leveling kits. Both kits serve different purposes, but their impact on the vehicle’s appearance and performance can be significant.
Whether you're aiming for a more aggressive stance, improved off-road capability, or just want to fit larger tires, understanding the differences between a suspension lift kit and a leveling kit is crucial to make an informed decision.
In this blog, we’ll break down these two types of kits, how they work, and which one might be right for you.
A suspension lift kit is a comprehensive system designed to raise the entire vehicle's suspension. It includes various components like new shocks, struts, springs, control arms, and other suspension-related parts that are specifically engineered to lift the vehicle's ride height.
This lift is typically 3 inches or more, but can range from mild to extreme, depending on the kit and the vehicle.
Purpose of a Suspension Lift Kit:
- Aesthetic Appeal: A suspension lift provides a head-turning, aggressive look. It enhances the overall stance of the vehicle, making it stand out on the road.
- Larger Tires: A suspension lift gives you the space to install much larger tires, for a commanding, custom appearance. Tire sizes can range from 33" to 44" or larger, depending on the vehicle and suspenion lift kit.
- Increased Ground Clearance: A suspension lift kit significantly raises the vehicle’s clearance, which is ideal for off-roading. With more ground clearance, you’re less likely to hit obstacles like rocks, logs, or uneven terrain. For owners who don't off-road their trucks a suspension lift kit is the ultimate way to make your truck stand out (literally).
- Improved Off-Road Performance: For those looking to tackle rough terrain, a lifted vehicle can navigate rocks, mud, and water crossings more easily. The kit can also improve suspension travel, allowing the vehicle to absorb impacts better during off-road adventures.
Pros of Suspension Lift Kits:
- Aggressive and commanding aesthetic
- HUGE selection of lift heights and custom options
- Ability to fit significantly larger tires
- More ground clearance for serious off-roading
- Improved suspension travel and off-road performance
Cons of Suspension Lift Kits:
- Can be expensive, especially for higher-end kits
- Installation can be complex and may require professional assistance
- Depending on location, local bumper height laws can become an issue
- Large tires will impact fuel economy
A leveling kit is a more basic and cost-effective modification designed to raise the front end of your vehicle to match the rear. Many trucks, SUVs, and even some crossovers come from the factory with a slight rear-end rake, where the back is higher than the front.
While this setup is designed to accommodate towing and load carrying, it can create an uneven appearance, which some owners might want to correct.
Leveling kits are typically made of spacers or strut extensions that are installed on the front suspension, giving the vehicle a more level stance without raising the entire vehicle. The typical lift achieved with a leveling kit is between 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
Purpose of a Leveling Kit:
- Correct Rake: The primary goal of a leveling kit is to correct the factory rake, which makes the vehicle look more balanced.
- Aesthetic Improvement: The leveling kit gives the vehicle a more aggressive, level stance without drastically altering its ride height or handling.
- Larger Tires: A leveling kit can allow for the fitment of slightly larger tires (depending on the kit and vehicle), giving the vehicle a more rugged, off-road look.
- Minor Ground Clearance Boost: While not as substantial as a full suspension lift, a leveling kit does provide a small increase in front-end ground clearance, which can help in certain off-road situations.
Pros of Leveling Kits:
- More affordable and less expensive than a full suspension lift kit
- Easier and quicker to install (often a DIY job)
- Corrects the front-end rake and improves vehicle appearance
- Minor increase in ground clearance and the ability to fit larger tires
- Maintains the vehicle’s overall handling characteristics
- Can improve ride quality compared to stock (depending on kit)
Cons of Leveling Kits:
- Limited ground clearance compared to a complete suspension lift kit
- Does not improve suspension travel or off-road performance significantly
- Limited options for customization
Key Differences Between Suspension Lift Kits and Leveling Kits
| Feature | Suspension Lift Kit | Leveling Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Lift Height | Typically 3 inches or more | Typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Purpose | Increase ground clearance, fit larger tires, enhance off-road ability | Correct the front-end rake, improve appearance |
| Components | Includes full suspension system upgrades (springs, shocks, control arms, etc.) | Simple spacers or strut extensions |
| Off-Road Capability | Significantly improves off-road performance | Minimal effect on off-road performance |
| Cost | Expensive (high-end kits can cost thousands) | Relatively inexpensive (typically a few hundred dollars) |
| Installation Complexity | Can be complex and requires professional installation | Simple and often a DIY job |
| Impact on Ride Quality | Can affect ride quality, especially on-road handling | Minimal impact, as it doesn't alter suspension much |
| Aesthetic Changes | Significant increase in ride height and aggressive stance | Corrects rake, providing a more level appearance |
Which One Should You Choose?
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Choose a Suspension Lift Kit if:
- You want to fit much larger tires (often 35" or bigger).
- You're looking for an overall vehicle transformation with enhanced suspension performance.
- Budget is less of a concern, and you're willing to invest in both the kit and professional installation.
- You plan to do serious off-roading and need substantial ground clearance and/or want a totally custom look.
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Choose a Leveling Kit if:
- You simply want to correct the factory rake and improve your vehicle's appearance.
- You don’t need extensive off-road modifications or massive ground clearance.
- You're on a budget and prefer a more affordable, easier-to-install option.
- You still want to fit slightly larger tires but don't need drastic changes in ride height.
Both suspension lift kits and leveling kits have their unique benefits and drawbacks.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your specific goals, driving habits, and budget. Either way, both upgrades will enhance your vehicle's appearance and give you the opportunity to tackle new challenges on and off the road.
Here at FASS Motorsports, we're proud to offer a MASSIVE selection of both leveling and lift kits for a wide variety of trucks. Located in Washington, Missouri, we are a one-stop-shop, offering:
- Hassle-free build consultations
- No-pressure price quotes
- Complete installation services
- And so much more!
Our address is:
If you have questions about suspension upgrades, give us a call at (636) 429-7020, or email us at info@fassmotorsports.com!