Nothing says, “I own this street,” like a lifted truck. Adding mud means, “I own this street, and everything is not paved too.” It is the ultimate statement when Bad to the Bone is the theme song for your ride. Nothing else will better set your truck apart from the crowd.
Like most things in 21st-century life, options abound for your lift, and prices can vary substantially. Additional accessories are also a need to reaffirm your lifted statement because it’s a crime against trucks to do the lift.
1 Lift Options
There is tremendous variation when it comes to lift kits for trucks, and price, quality, lift utility, and statement are all considerations—quality and selection matter when shopping for a lift kit.
- Lift Size
The first consideration is always how high you want to lift your truck. Kits typically start at 1” and go up to 8”. They tend to be grouped as 1-2”, 3-5”, and 6-8”. A 1-2” lift is typically desired by those just wanting a little extra clearance for off-road driving. 3” and up is when a lift becomes a statement. 3-5” lifts will accommodate 35” wheels, whereas 6-8” lifts can accommodate the 37” big boys.
- Price
Lift kits can vary from as little as several hundred dollars to $4,000. Like most things, quality and price tend to be significantly correlated. An inexpensive kit will be a minor lift as the suspension requirements aren’t nearly as demanding. Moving up the price list, higher lifts factor used into the price. A less expensive kit is fine for the show on paved roads, whereas those planning to tear up the dirt in some rough areas would be best served to spend more.
The price point, around $1,500, usually includes premium shocks and struts. Quality can matter when it comes to tire wear and ride quality, and spending a little more to save on tires is highly recommended.
Shopping a large selection can offer tons of options, but it is always best to go into it with a good idea of what you want out of your lift kit first. Chances are you’ll find it.
2 Accessories
Adding a lift kit without customizing your wheels is considered an arrestable offense. A lift is making your wheels an even bigger focus now, and stock just isn’t going to cut it. Wheels mean that the truck is truly your own, and how you represent it shows you care. Wheel finishes can be everything from blacked out to brushed chrome, and they can reaffirm that aggressive look or add a touch of elegance.
$1,200 will usually get you into some wheels that make a profound statement. Size increases will require new rubber, which will significantly add to that amount.
3 Brakes
A lift means increased stopping power is very helpful. Plan on increased stopping distance due to extra weight. They aren’t necessary, but you’ll be happy you’ve got them. Also, painted calipers add that little extra to the look of your truck.
Brakes can be one of the most expensive options to add to a truck, running as high as $5,500 for ultra-premium, big brakes for the front end. You don’t need supercar breaks to get an improvement out of brake performance but plan on a couple thousand to be safe.
4 A Big Consideration
Before anything else, it is essential to know the laws of your state in regards to truck height. For example, a state will have laws regarding the truck’s height and the height of the tail lights or headlights from the ground. Many states regulate based on the height of the bumper from the ground. Mudflaps might also be required in your state.
Big traffic tickets aren’t fun after you’ve spent thousands.
A lift kit can be an excellent way to tell the world that your truck is incredible, and it can also serve a functional purpose for those wandering off-road regularly. However, buying a lift does require some considerations regarding laws, additional needs, and accessories that accentuate it.
A truck is a statement that tells people who you are, regardless of the type or age of the truck. For those wanting to say, “check me out,” a lift is necessary.
