Are you ready to take your truck to the next level? If you are thinking of lifting your truck, there are a few things you should know first. Lift kit pricing is not one-size-fits-all. It can vary depending on the height and type of vehicle you’re lifting.
Fair warning, too, if you think you can lift it yourself: You may want to reconsider. When you make such extensive alterations, chances are something will go wrong. Avoid any mistakes by scheduling an installation with a mechanic who has the best tools and knowledge to accompany the lift.
What To Know About Lift Kits
Lift kits are aftermarket products not sold or installed by vehicle manufacturers designed for functionality and style. Companies specialize in building lift kits for specific makes and models. This means you’ll need a local mechanic’s expertise to choose the right lift kit for your truck or SUV.
Different types of lift kits are manufactured to fulfill specific needs. For example, if you’re driving 25 miles to work every day, large tires with a two-foot-tall lift may not be the best option. Similarly, if you are towing a lot of weight day-in and day-out, a higher center of gravity may make your drive more challenging.
Think about your routine. Where do you drive on a daily basis? Where do you spend your weekends? How often do you take road trips? Trust your local repair shop to help you pick the best lift kit for your lifestyle and your truck.
Different Types of Lift Kits
First, you’ll want to decide what kind of lift you’re getting: a suspension or body lift. Each offers its own benefits and comes at different costs. A suspension lift kit could cost anywhere from $450 to $2,000 because it provides additional height, ground clearance, and suspension travel. But a body lift that is typically used solely for gaining height could be as cheap as $80.
After you decide which type of kit will get the job done, consider the options for your vehicle and your lifestyle. For example, a leveling kit will create more space for the truck’s suspension to shift, which will help with towing. Typically, they come at a lower cost than lift kits but still work to elevate the front of your truck for additional ground clearance.
Ultimately, it comes down to what you’re using your lift for. If you’re off-roading on the weekends, you’ll need a suspension lift for more ground clearance. But if you’re going for aesthetics to show off some cool wheels, a body lift may be the best choice.
To DIY or Not to DIY
If you’re an avid auto-enthusiast, you’ll probably want to install your lift kit yourself. But this puts you at risk for many unforeseen costs. Here are some reasons we recommend a mechanic does the work for you:
- Installations can cause accidental damage to your vehicle
- You may need to purchase new tools along the way
- You are putting your safety at risk
- Some lift kits are more complicated to install than others
A trusted local mechanic experienced in lift kit installations is the best option for your peace of mind and your wallet.
What To Know About the Cost
Lift kits elevate your truck’s style and—quite literally—height, but they come at a steep cost. Many factors contribute to the total cost of your lift kit, like what type of truck you’re lifting, the kind of lift required, the tools needed, and the labor for the installation. Lift kits and their installation are usually not impulsive expenses. That’s why so many drivers rely on professionals to ensure proper application.
What To Know About Installation
Installing your lift kit the right way is crucial for your safety and the overall performance of your vehicle.
Professional mechanics know what can and cannot be done to your vehicle. When lifting a truck or SUV, you change the balance and force distribution on the tires, suspension, brakes, engine, and more. In turn, there are many possibilities for something to go wrong during the install. Experts know how to adjust the vehicle in the safest way possible.
Lift kits benefit your vehicle in many ways, giving you more clearance, better visibility, and off-road performance. These advantages don’t come without wear and tear. That’s why you should partner with a local mechanic to get your lift kit installed for your vehicle.
After diving deeper into how much a lift kit costs and the benefits of working with a trusted mechanic, are you ready to take your truck or SUV to new heights? If so, leave the lift kit to the professionals and schedule an appointment with Big Chief Tire.