Wondering how much a leveling kit costs in Tampa? You've come to the right place. At LR Wheels N Lifts, we install leveling kits daily and know exactly what you should expect to pay. This guide breaks down every cost so you can budget accurately for your truck.
Tampa Leveling Kit Cost Breakdown
Here's what leveling kit installation costs in the Tampa Bay area for 2025. Prices include parts, labor, and alignment.
| Kit Type | Parts | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coil Spring Spacers | $50 - $150 | $200 - $300 | $300 - $500 |
| Strut Extensions | $150 - $300 | $250 - $400 | $400 - $700 |
| Torsion Keys | $100 - $250 | $200 - $350 | $350 - $600 |
| Complete Kit (w/ shocks) | $300 - $500 | $350 - $500 | $650 - $1,000 |
Note: Tampa shop rates average $100-$150/hour. Our rates are competitive, and we include alignment with every leveling kit install.
Leveling Kit Cost by Brand
The brand you choose significantly affects price. Here's what popular leveling kit brands cost:
Rough Country
Best budget option. Lifetime warranty. Most popular choice.
MotoFab
Easiest DIY install. CNC machined aluminum. Great value.
ReadyLIFT
Factory ride quality. SST kits popular. Mid-range quality.
Kryptonite
Heavy-duty. Built for work trucks. Premium quality.
Zone Off-Road
Off-road focused. Complete kits. Good quality.
BDS Suspension
Premium brand. Excellent engineering. We recommend.
Leveling Kit Cost by Truck
Your truck's make and model affects complexity and cost. Here's what to expect:
| Vehicle | Parts Range | Total Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Ford F-150 (2015-2024) | $70 - $300 | $350 - $700 |
| Ford F-250/F-350 (2017-2024) | $150 - $400 | $450 - $900 |
| Chevy Silverado 1500 | $70 - $250 | $350 - $650 |
| Chevy Silverado 2500/3500 | $150 - $350 | $450 - $800 |
| GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500 | $70 - $350 | $350 - $800 |
| RAM 1500 (2019-2024) | $100 - $300 | $400 - $700 |
| RAM 2500/3500 | $150 - $400 | $450 - $900 |
| Toyota Tundra | $100 - $300 | $400 - $700 |
| Toyota Tacoma | $70 - $250 | $350 - $600 |
| Jeep Wrangler JL/JK | $100 - $350 | $400 - $750 |
Tampa Truck Owners: We Specialize in Super Duty Trucks
LR Wheels N Lifts focuses on Ford F-250, F-350, Chevy 2500/3500, and RAM Heavy Duty trucks. We're authorized dealers for BDS, Rough Country, and ReadyLIFT. Call (813) 464-9023 for your exact quote.
What is a Leveling Kit?
A leveling kit raises the front of your truck 1-3 inches to eliminate the factory "rake" - that nose-down stance trucks come with from the factory. Manufacturers design trucks this way to handle heavy loads in the bed, but most owners prefer a level stance.
What Leveling Kits Include
- Coil spring spacers - Aluminum or steel spacers installed above the coil spring
- Strut extensions - Spacers that mount between the strut and frame
- Torsion keys - For trucks with torsion bar suspension (GM, some Ford)
- Hardware - New bolts, nuts, and alignment cams
- Complete kits - May include new shocks, bump stops, and brake lines
Leveling Kit Benefits
- Eliminate factory rake for a level stance
- Fit larger tires (up to 33" on most trucks)
- Improved appearance and more aggressive look
- Better approach angle for light off-roading
- Add a front plow or winch without sagging
- Maintain near-factory ride quality
- Better fuel economy than full lift kits
Hidden Costs to Budget For
The leveling kit and installation aren't the only costs. Here's what else you might need:
| Additional Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Alignment | $80 - $150 | Required - We include this |
| Larger Tires (set of 4) | $600 - $1,500 | Optional - Can fit 1-2 sizes larger |
| New Wheels (set of 4) | $400 - $2,000 | Optional - For different offset/style |
| New Shocks | $200 - $600 | Recommended for worn shocks |
| CV Axle Inspection | $0 - $50 | We check during install |
| Speedometer Recalibration | $50 - $100 | Only if you change tire size |
Get Your Free Leveling Kit Quote
Tampa's trusted truck specialists. Same-day installation available. All major brands in stock.
Schedule Online Send MessageLeveling Kit vs Lift Kit: Which Do You Need?
Not sure if you need a leveling kit or a full lift? Here's the quick breakdown:
| Factor | Leveling Kit | Lift Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Height Gain | 1-3" (front only) | 2-12" (entire truck) |
| Cost Installed | $300 - $1,000 | $1,800 - $10,000+ |
| Max Tire Size | Up to 33" | 35" - 40"+ |
| Install Time | 2-4 hours | 6-12+ hours |
| Ride Quality | Near factory | Varies by kit |
| Fuel Economy | Minimal impact | 5-15% decrease |
| Off-Road Capability | Light improvement | Major improvement |
Our recommendation: If you want to eliminate rake and fit 33" tires, a leveling kit is perfect. If you want 35"+ tires and serious off-road capability, go with a suspension lift kit.
DIY vs Professional Installation
DIY Installation
- Pros: Save $200-$400 on labor
- Cons: Need tools (spring compressor, jack stands, torque wrench), 4-6 hours of work, still need professional alignment
- Difficulty: Moderate - Easier than lift kits but requires mechanical skill
Professional Installation
- Pros: Done in 2-3 hours, alignment included, warranty coverage, proper torque specs
- Cons: Costs $200-$500 more than DIY
- Why we recommend it: Improper installation causes unsafe handling, premature tire wear, and can damage suspension components
Why Tampa Truck Owners Choose LR Wheels N Lifts
We're not a general mechanic shop - we specialize in lifted trucks. Our techs install leveling and lift kits daily, ensuring your truck is done right the first time. Plus, we're authorized dealers for the top brands, so we can match you with the right kit for your truck.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Installation time depends on kit complexity and your vehicle:
- Coil spring spacers: 2-2.5 hours
- Strut spacers: 2.5-3.5 hours
- Torsion key adjustment: 2-3 hours
- Complete kits with shocks: 3-4 hours
- Alignment: Add 30-60 minutes
Most leveling kit installs at our Tampa shop are completed same-day. Schedule your morning appointment and drive home leveled by lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a leveling kit cost?
A leveling kit costs $50-$500 for parts and $200-$500 for professional installation in Tampa. Total cost ranges from $300-$1,000 depending on kit brand, vehicle type, and shop rates. Budget brands like Rough Country start around $69, while premium kits from ReadyLIFT or Kryptonite run $300-$500.
Do I need an alignment after a leveling kit?
Yes, you always need an alignment after installing a leveling kit. Lifting the front changes the suspension geometry, affecting tire wear and handling. Alignment costs $80-$150 in Tampa - we include it with every leveling kit installation.
Will a leveling kit void my warranty?
A leveling kit itself doesn't automatically void your warranty, but under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, the dealer must prove the modification caused the failure. Quality kits from Rough Country, BDS, and ReadyLIFT are designed to work within factory tolerances and rarely cause warranty issues.
What size tires can I fit with a leveling kit?
A 2-2.5" leveling kit typically allows 33" tires on most trucks without rubbing. Some trucks can fit 33s stock, while others may need minor trimming. For 35" tires or larger, you'll need a full suspension lift kit.
Is a leveling kit worth it?
Yes, a leveling kit is worth it if you want to eliminate factory rake, fit slightly larger tires, or improve your truck's appearance. At $300-$600 installed, it's the most affordable way to modify your truck's stance with minimal impact on ride quality or fuel economy.
How long does a leveling kit last?
Quality leveling kits last the lifetime of your truck. Aluminum and steel spacers don't wear out. However, if your shocks were already worn, the added height may accelerate their wear - consider upgrading shocks at the same time for best results.
Can I install a leveling kit myself?
Yes, leveling kits are DIY-friendly if you have mechanical experience, proper tools (spring compressor, torque wrench, jack stands), and 4-6 hours. However, you'll still need a professional alignment afterward ($80-$150). Improper installation can cause unsafe handling.
Ready to Level Your Truck?
Tampa's lifted truck specialists. Same-day installation. All major brands in stock. Serving Tampa, Brandon, Clearwater, St. Pete, and Wesley Chapel.
Schedule Now View Services