If you’re looking to increase the height of your truck or SUV, installing a lift kit is a great option. Lift kits raise your vehicle’s suspension to allow for larger tires and improved ground clearance. But with so many lift kit options on the market, how do you choose the right one? Here’s what you should pay attention to when shopping for lift kits.

Consider Your Vehicle

The first thing to look at when shopping for a lift kit is your specific make and model of vehicle. Lift kits are designed to fit certain trucks and SUVs. Make sure any kit you consider is made for your exact year, make and model. Trying to install the wrong kit can lead to poor fitment and safety issues. Only get a lift kit engineered specifically for your vehicle.

Pick Your Lift Height

You’ll also want to decide how much you want to lift your truck or SUV. Most kits come in sizes like 2 inches, 3 inches or 4 inches. While a bigger lift allows for larger tires, it also raises your center of gravity. Make sure to consider how a taller lift will impact driving and handling. Many recommend keeping lifts under 3 inches for daily drivers.

Compare Kit Components

There can be a big difference in parts quality between budget lift kits and premium ones. Cheaper kits often use less durable materials that wear out faster. Look for kits that include upgraded components like forged steel lift blocks and thick shock absorbers. Pay extra attention to the shocks, as these heavily impact your ride quality after lifting.

Get an Alignment Spec

A proper front end alignment is crucial after installing a lift kit. Unfortunately, not all kits come with alignment specs. Look for ones that provide detailed instructions for realigning caster, camber and toe. This will ensure proper tire wear and handling after you lift your truck. Going with a kit that doesn’t have alignment specs can lead to unnecessary tire wear.

Check the Warranty

Given the importance of lift kit components, you’ll want a good manufacturer’s warranty. Many high quality kits come with at least a 3-year or a 36,000 mile warranty. This protects against any premature failure of parts. Stay away from kits that don’t offer at least some type of warranty coverage. Otherwise, you could be stuck with busted parts and a voided vehicle warranty.

Read Customer Reviews

Before buying, look at customer reviews and feedback online. This can reveal potential issues like poorly fitting components, lacking instructions and poor ride quality. Quality lift kits will have overwhelmingly positive reviews. Be wary of kits with a lot of negative feedback, as you may encounter the same problems. Checking reviews is an easy way to evaluate options.

Factor In Installation Costs

While shopping for the lift kit itself, don’t forget that you’ll need to pay for installation too. Labor costs can vary greatly between different mechanics. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $800 or more for installation and alignment. The shop’s hourly rate and your lift kit’s complexity will determine the final price. Keep this additional cost in mind when budgeting.

Choosing the ideal lift kit involves more than just the maximum lift height. By paying attention to factors like component quality, alignment specs and customer reviews, you can find a great kit for your specific vehicle. Follow these tips to boost your truck or SUV correctly. Visit an online retailer, such as Top Edge Aftermarket Parts & Accessories, to start shopping today.