If you're thinking about lifting your truck, one of the first questions is "how much will it cost?" The answer depends on the type of lift, your vehicle, quality of components, and whether you DIY or hire a professional. This guide breaks down all the costs so you can budget accurately.
Quick Answer: Lift Kit Cost Summary
| Lift Type | Parts Cost | Installation | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leveling Kit (1-2") | $200 - $500 | $200 - $400 | $400 - $900 |
| Body Lift (1-3") | $400 - $1,500 | $400 - $800 | $800 - $2,300 |
| Suspension Lift (3-6") | $1,000 - $5,000 | $800 - $1,500 | $1,800 - $6,500 |
| Premium Suspension (6-12"+) | $5,000 - $15,000+ | $1,500 - $3,000+ | $6,500 - $18,000+ |
Types of Lift Kits Explained
1. Leveling Kits ($400 - $900 installed)
Leveling kits raise the front of your truck 1-2 inches to match the rear height. They're the most affordable option and work well for:
- Eliminating factory rake (front-low stance)
- Fitting slightly larger tires (1-2 sizes up)
- Improved front-end appearance
- Maintaining factory ride quality
Components: Spacers, strut extensions, or torsion keys. Simple design means quick installation (2-4 hours).
2. Body Lifts ($800 - $2,300 installed)
Body lifts raise the body away from the frame using spacer blocks, giving you 1-3 inches of additional clearance for larger tires without changing suspension geometry.
- More affordable than suspension lifts
- No change to ride quality
- Keeps factory suspension components
- Gap visible between body and frame
Best for: Tire clearance on a budget. Not recommended for serious off-roading.
3. Suspension Lifts ($1,800 - $6,500+ installed)
Suspension lifts replace or modify your truck's suspension components to raise the entire vehicle 3-6+ inches. This is the most popular option for serious truck builds.
- True lift with improved ground clearance
- Better off-road capability
- Room for much larger tires (35"+)
- Improved departure and approach angles
What's Included in a Quality Suspension Lift Kit?
Complete kits include: lifted coil springs or spacers, new shocks, control arms, brake line extensions, differential drop brackets, and all necessary hardware. Budget kits may skip components - always verify what's included.
4. Premium/Coilover Systems ($6,500 - $18,000+ installed)
High-end suspension systems using adjustable coilovers from brands like King, Fox, or Icon. These offer:
- Adjustable ride height
- Superior off-road performance
- Remote reservoirs for heat dissipation
- Customizable damping
What Affects Lift Kit Pricing?
Brand Quality
Lift kit brands range dramatically in price and quality:
- Budget ($500-1,500): Rough Country, Superlift - Good for light use
- Mid-Range ($1,500-3,500): BDS, Pro Comp, Fabtech - Excellent value
- Premium ($3,500-10,000+): Icon, King, Fox - Best performance
Lift Height
Higher lifts require more components and complexity:
- 2-3" lift: Basic components needed
- 4-6" lift: May need new driveshafts, extended brake lines
- 8"+ lift: Extensive modifications, custom work often required
Your Vehicle
Some trucks cost more to lift than others:
- Newer trucks with complex electronics cost more
- Independent front suspension (IFS) vs solid axle affects price
- 4WD costs more than 2WD due to additional components
Hidden Costs to Consider
The lift kit is just part of the total investment:
| Additional Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Larger Tires (4) | $800 - $2,000 |
| New Wheels (4) | $600 - $2,500 |
| Alignment | $150 - $250 |
| Speedometer Recalibration | $50 - $150 |
| Extended Warranty Service | $100 - $300/year |
DIY vs Professional Installation
DIY Pros: Save $500-1,500 on labor
DIY Cons: Risk of improper installation, need specialized tools, voided warranty on some kits
We recommend professional installation for suspension lifts. Improper installation can cause unsafe handling, premature wear, and costly repairs.
Get a Free Lift Kit Quote in Tampa
LR Wheels N Lifts offers competitive pricing on lift kit installation. BDS, Rough Country, Fox, and more!
View Services Get a QuoteIs a Lift Kit Worth the Cost?
A quality lift kit adds value to your truck and enhances capability. Benefits include:
- Improved off-road clearance and capability
- Room for larger, more aggressive tires
- Enhanced appearance and stance
- Better visibility on the road
- Increased resale value (for quality installations)
However, cheap lift kits can hurt resale value and create safety issues. Invest in quality components and professional installation for the best results.