LEVELING KIT VS BODY LIFT
In part one, Your 4×4 Lift or No Lift, I reviewed reasons for adding a suspension lift to your truck, jeep, or SUV. If you’re reading this you’re still on the fence so check out these pros, cons, costs, and alternatives of installing a body lift or leveling kit on your 4×4.
LEVELING KIT
A leveling kit raises the front of your truck, jeep, or SUV to even out the overall stance of the vehicle. If you rarely load your truck or haul a heavy trailer, adding a leveling kit will let you fit larger wheels and tires under your 4×4 and level out the factory rake for a minimal investment. Most of us agree that a suspension lift looks awesome on about any truck, but if its primary purpose is for looks, consider the leveling kit option. This upgrade looks great and offers some of the same advantages.
PROS
A leveling kit will give you approximately 1-3 inches of additional front end ground clearance.
The ability to install larger tires without worrying whether they will scrub when making turns.
Will help offset the weight of a front winch.
Increases front end height 1-3 inches for an improved aesthetic, balanced appearance.
It can eliminate the visible gap between the chassis and the body.
Less expensive than a body lift.
Reduces the stress on the front suspension and brakes, making it easier to emergency brake.
A properly installed high quality leveling kit actually provides all these benefits. So what’s the catch? Here are some disadvantages to adding a leveling kit.
CONS
Installing a front-end leveling kit equalizes the suspension, which results in increased wind resistance. The increased resistance and drag decreases fuel economy. These days that’s a consideration for some. The difference in gas mileage will most likely be slight so not a major disadvantage.
The weight of the vehicle rests on the suspension. If a front-end leveling kit is installed incorrectly, it can cause increased wear and tear on the suspension system. Have a professional do your install to avoid this one.
Only affects the front of your vehicle.
In most cases, it doesn’t offer enough lift to make a pronounced visual difference overall.
Warranties are most often impacted by this type of modification.
It’s clear to see the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to the leveling kit. However, you still have options to consider.
BODY LIFT
Body lifts are ideal for creating space between the body and the frame of your vehicle, not your vehicle suspension and the ground. Making room for larger tires is its primary purpose. If that’s your reason, you’re climbing the right hill but it has limitations compared to the suspension lift. Check out the pros and cons below.
PROS
A Body Lift is a relatively simple kit to install, takes about 1-3 hours.
DIY project using basic tools if you’re mechanically inclined and confident in your ability.
Still more affordable than a suspension lift, even when professionally installed.
The ability to install larger tires without worrying whether they will scrub when making turns.
This lift shouldn’t affect your ride quality or handling.
Won’t affect your suspension geometry.
CONS
Body lifts are only available in 2 and 5 inch kits.
The only ground clearance you’ll gain is from your tires so know your limits.
May expose your frame and/or create a gap between bumper and body (Not Ideal).
Will likely void your warranty if over 2 inches.
Stretches factory components such as wiring harnesses (especially new trucks).
May negatively affect the steering column and require additional work to correct.
Cost more on average than a leveling kit.
NO LIFT OPTION
Maybe this lift idea is simply stemming from a need for change or just a general upgrade? Consider a set of new aftermarket wheels over the more expensive lift option. The Jeep below has a 4″ suspension lift and new aftermarket wheels. The Chevy has only upgraded aftermarket wheels yet they both offer a vast improvement. The difference in cash output could change your mind… 🙂
BOTTOM LINE
So what costs are involved in going forward with a leveling lift? Buying and installing yourself, expect $200- $1000 for basic up to advanced kits. You can roughly estimate the installation cost from a pro to be the same as the kit so you may pay them $400-$2000 for kit and install, the more extensive the kits, the higher the cost. Body lift kits and installation are slightly higher, seriously consider why you’d want this option over a leveling kit. They’re going to run you more like $400 to $1500 for basic to advanced and a chunk for install. My advice is to call around for quotes, get expert practical advice from a professional installer that you or your friends trust before taking the next step.
Have more lift questions, I’m here to help!
Call or text (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love, I have answers.
Sources:
Super Lift Our Blog “Body Lift vs. Suspension Lift: Which Is Best for Your Ride?” superlift.com Retrieved April 2, 2022 from: https://superlift.com/our-blog/4/post/79/body-lift-vs-suspension-lift
Staff Writer Diesel Power “Lifting vs. Leveling – which is right for you?” motortrend.com May 1, 2013 Web. Retrieved from: https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/1305dp-lifitng-vs-leveling-which-is-right-for-you/
Hawley, Dustin “How Much Does It Cost To Lift A Truck?” jdpower.com January 21, 2021 Web. Retrieved from: https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/how-much-does-it-cost-to-lift-a-truck
Harper, Jeffrey “Body Lift Vs Suspension Lift: Here’s How To Decide Which Is Right For You” hotcars.com October 6, 2020 Web. Retrieved from: https://www.hotcars.com/body-lift-vs-suspension-life-which-is-right-for-you/
