How much does it cost to install a lift kit in Tampa? At LR Wheels N Lifts, we've installed thousands of lift kits and know exactly what you should expect to pay. This guide breaks down installation costs by lift height, vehicle type, and brand so you can budget accurately.
Lift Kit Installation Cost by Lift Height
The height of your lift directly impacts installation complexity and labor time. Here's what to expect in Tampa for 2025:
| Lift Height | Labor Hours | Installation Cost | Total w/ Parts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leveling Kit (2-3") | 2-4 hrs | $200-$400 | $400-$900 |
| Body Lift (1-3") | 4-6 hrs | $400-$800 | $800-$2,000 |
| 4" Suspension Lift | 6-8 hrs | $800-$1,500 | $2,500-$5,500 |
| 6" Suspension Lift | 8-10 hrs | $1,500-$2,500 | $4,000-$8,000 |
| 8" Suspension Lift | 10-14 hrs | $2,000-$3,000 | $6,000-$12,000 |
| 10-12"+ Extreme Lift | 12-20+ hrs | $2,500-$4,000+ | $10,000-$20,000+ |
Tampa labor rates: Most quality shops charge $100-$150/hour for lift kit installation. Budget shops may charge less but often lack specialized experience. At LR Wheels N Lifts, we charge competitive rates and include alignment with every lift.
Installation Cost by Vehicle
Your truck's make and model significantly affects installation complexity and cost. Some trucks require more work than others due to suspension design, electronics, and component accessibility.
Ford F-150 (2015-2024)
| Leveling Kit | $200-$350 |
| 4" Lift Install | $700-$1,200 |
| 6" Lift Install | $1,200-$2,000 |
IFS front, easier install than Super Duty. Most common lift we install.
Ford F-250/F-350 (2017-2024)
| Leveling Kit | $250-$450 |
| 4" Lift Install | $900-$1,500 |
| 6" Lift Install | $1,500-$2,500 |
Solid front axle. Heavier components. Our specialty - we install more Super Duty lifts than any shop in Tampa.
Chevy Silverado 1500
| Leveling Kit | $200-$350 |
| 4" Lift Install | $700-$1,300 |
| 6" Lift Install | $1,200-$2,200 |
IFS front. Torsion bar models require key adjustments. Very popular lift platform.
Chevy/GMC 2500HD/3500HD
| Leveling Kit | $250-$450 |
| 4" Lift Install | $900-$1,600 |
| 6" Lift Install | $1,500-$2,800 |
Heavy-duty components. Diesel models (Duramax) may need exhaust work. We're Duramax specialists.
RAM 1500 (2019-2024)
| Leveling Kit | $250-$400 |
| 4" Lift Install | $800-$1,400 |
| 6" Lift Install | $1,400-$2,400 |
Air suspension models cost more. Coil spring models are straightforward. Great aftermarket support.
RAM 2500/3500
| Leveling Kit | $250-$500 |
| 4" Lift Install | $900-$1,600 |
| 6" Lift Install | $1,600-$3,000 |
Solid front axle (4th gen). Cummins diesel popular. Excellent off-road platform.
Super Duty & Heavy-Duty Truck Specialists
LR Wheels N Lifts specializes in Ford F-250/F-350, Chevy 2500/3500, and RAM 2500/3500. We work with Power Stroke, Duramax, and Cummins diesels daily. If you want your heavy-duty truck done right, you've found the right shop.
Installation Cost by Brand
Different lift kit brands require different installation approaches. Budget kits often lack components, requiring more fab work. Premium kits include everything for a cleaner install.
| Brand | Kit Quality | Install Complexity | Typical Labor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rough Country | Budget-Friendly | Moderate | Standard rates |
| Superlift | Entry-Level | Moderate | Standard rates |
| BDS Suspension | Premium | Straightforward | Standard rates |
| Pro Comp | Mid-Range | Straightforward | Standard rates |
| Fabtech | Premium | Straightforward | Standard rates |
| Zone Offroad | Budget-Friendly | Moderate | Standard rates |
| Icon | Ultra-Premium | Technical | +10-20% labor |
| King Shocks | Race-Grade | Technical | +15-25% labor |
Our recommendation: BDS and Fabtech offer the best value for most truck owners. Premium engineering means complete kits that install cleanly. Rough Country is great for budget-conscious buyers who want a quality lift without breaking the bank.
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Tampa's Super Duty & diesel truck specialists. BDS, Rough Country, Fox authorized dealer.
Schedule Consultation View Lift ServicesWhat's Included in Professional Installation?
When you pay for professional lift kit installation, here's what you should expect:
Our Lift Kit Installation Includes:
- Complete removal of factory components
- Installation of all lift kit components (springs, shocks, control arms, etc.)
- Brake line extension and routing
- Driveshaft angle adjustment (if needed)
- Steering geometry correction
- Full safety inspection of all components
- Torque all fasteners to manufacturer specs
- Test drive for vibrations and handling
- 4-wheel alignment (included with every lift)
- Final walk-through and maintenance tips
What to Watch Out For
Some shops quote low labor and then charge extra for alignment, driveshaft adjustment, or "additional required parts." Always ask what's included. At LR Wheels N Lifts, we quote complete installed prices with no surprises.
Additional Costs to Budget For
The lift kit and installation aren't the only costs. Here's what else you might need:
| Item | Cost Range | When Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Alignment | $100-$200 | Always required (we include it) |
| Larger Tires (set of 4) | $800-$2,500 | Optional, but recommended |
| New Wheels (set of 4) | $600-$3,000 | Optional, for proper offset/backspacing |
| Driveshaft | $300-$800 | 6"+ lifts on some trucks |
| Extended Brake Lines | $100-$300 | Usually included in quality kits |
| Speedometer Recalibration | $50-$150 | If changing tire size significantly |
| Ball Joints/Tie Rods | $200-$600 | If worn, should replace during install |
| Bump Stops | $50-$150 | Usually included in quality kits |
DIY vs Professional Installation
Can you save money installing a lift kit yourself? Here's an honest breakdown:
DIY Installation
- Savings: $500-$2,000 on labor
- Time required: 8-20+ hours (your first lift)
- Tools needed: Spring compressor, ball joint press, torque wrench, jack stands, specialty sockets
- Still need: Professional alignment ($100-$200)
- Risks: Improper installation, safety issues, component damage, voided warranty
Professional Installation
- Cost: $500-$3,000+ depending on lift
- Time: Same-day to next-day completion
- Benefits: Proper torque specs, warranty coverage, alignment included, safety guaranteed
- Peace of mind: Done right the first time by experienced technicians
Our honest take: Leveling kits are DIY-friendly for experienced mechanics. Suspension lifts over 4 inches should be professionally installed. The safety and warranty implications aren't worth the savings risk.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Here's realistic timing for lift kit installations:
| Lift Type | Shop Time | Pickup Same Day? |
|---|---|---|
| Leveling Kit | 2-4 hours | Yes - morning drop-off, afternoon pickup |
| Body Lift | 4-6 hours | Yes - full day reservation needed |
| 4" Suspension Lift | 6-8 hours | Usually - may extend to next morning |
| 6" Suspension Lift | 8-10 hours | Often next-day pickup |
| 8"+ Extreme Lift | 10-16+ hours | 2-3 day turnaround typical |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install a lift kit?
Lift kit installation costs $500-$3,000+ for labor in Tampa depending on lift height and complexity. Leveling kits cost $200-$400 to install. 4-inch suspension lifts cost $800-$1,500. 6-inch or larger lifts cost $1,500-$3,000+. These prices are for labor only and don't include parts.
How much does a 4-inch lift kit cost installed?
A 4-inch suspension lift kit costs $2,500-$5,500 fully installed in Tampa. This includes parts ($1,000-$3,500 for quality brands like BDS or Rough Country) and labor ($800-$1,500). Budget kits may cost less, but we recommend quality components for safety.
How much does a 6-inch lift kit cost installed?
A 6-inch suspension lift kit costs $4,000-$8,000+ fully installed. Parts range from $2,000-$5,000 depending on brand. Installation labor runs $1,500-$2,500 due to increased complexity including driveshaft modifications and extended control arms.
Is it cheaper to install a lift kit yourself?
DIY installation saves $500-$2,000 on labor, but requires specialized tools, mechanical experience, and 8-20+ hours. You'll still need professional alignment. Improper installation causes unsafe handling and can void warranties. We recommend professional installation for suspension lifts.
Does a lift kit void my truck warranty?
A lift kit doesn't automatically void your warranty. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, dealers must prove the modification caused the failure. Quality kits from BDS, Rough Country, and Fabtech are designed to work safely. Many also include their own warranties.
How long does lift kit installation take?
Installation takes 4-12+ hours depending on lift height. Leveling kits: 2-4 hours. 4" lifts: 6-8 hours. 6"+ lifts: 8-12+ hours. Most shops complete installations same-day or next-day.
What's included in professional lift kit installation?
Quality installation includes: component removal and installation, brake line routing, driveshaft adjustment, steering correction, safety inspection, proper torque on all fasteners, test drive, and 4-wheel alignment. Beware shops that quote low and then add fees.
Do I need new tires with a lift kit?
Not required, but highly recommended. A lifted truck with stock tires looks unfinished and doesn't take advantage of the increased clearance. Most owners size up 1-3 tire sizes when lifting. Budget $800-$2,500 for quality larger tires.
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Tampa's trusted lift kit specialists. Over 1,000 lifts installed. BDS, Fox, Rough Country authorized dealer. Serving Tampa, Brandon, Clearwater, St. Pete, and Wesley Chapel.
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