How Do Lift Kits Affect Ride Quality?

How Lift Kits Affect Ride Quality

Let’s cut to the chase: lift kits do change ride quality. Whether it’s for better or worse depends on the type of lift kit you choose, how it’s installed, and what you expect from your vehicle.

Suspension Lift Kits

Suspension lift kits are the heavy hitters of the lift world. They’re designed to give you better ground clearance and off-road performance by raising your entire suspension system. But all that awesomeness comes with a few trade-offs.

• Bumps feel bumpier. By raising your center of gravity, suspension lift kits can make your ride feel stiffer. You’ll notice potholes and speed bumps more than you did before.
• Body roll is real. A higher center of gravity also means more body roll when cornering. It’s not dangerous if you drive responsibly, but it’s something to keep in mind.
• Off-road wins, on-road loses. Suspension lift kits shine off-road, where the extra clearance and suspension travel give you an edge. On the highway, however, the ride might feel a bit rougher than you’re used to.

Body Lift Kits

Body lift kits are a simpler way to achieve a taller look without messing with your suspension. They’re great for fitting larger tires or adding a little extra clearance, but they don’t affect your suspension’s geometry. So, how do they stack up for ride quality?

• Barely noticeable. Because body lift kits don’t change your suspension, your ride quality will remain almost the same. If all you want is a taller stance and bigger tires, this is a solid option.
• No off-road gains. Unlike suspension lifts, body lifts don’t improve off-road performance. If you’re planning to hit the trails, you’ll need to rely on other mods for better articulation and clearance.

Other Factors That Impact Ride Quality

A lift kit isn’t the only thing that’ll affect how your vehicle feels. Here are a few more things to consider:

(Tire) Size Matters

Big tires are often part of the lifting equation, and they can dramatically impact your ride quality. Larger, knobby tires designed for off-roading are noisier and stiffer than the stock ones you’re used to. While they’re fantastic for tackling rough terrain, they can make your on-road experience feel a bit bumpy and loud.

Shock Absorbers Make a Difference

When you install a lift kit, you’ll often need to upgrade your shocks. High-quality lshocks can smooth out the ride and make lifted vehicles feel more stable. Cheap or poorly chosen shocks, on the other hand, can make your ride feel like a rollercoaster.

Installation Is Key

A poorly installed lift kit can wreak havoc on your ride quality. Uneven suspension geometry, improper alignment, or loose components can lead to a bumpy, unstable, and downright frustrating driving experience. If you’re not confident in your DIY skills, this is one job best left to the pros.

Tips for Maintaining Ride Quality with a Lift Kit

If you want the best of both worlds – an aggressive look and a smooth ride – follow these tips:

• Choose quality parts – Invest in reputable brands for your lift kit, shocks, and tires. You’ll thank yourself later.
• Pair with performance shocks – The right shocks can dramatically improve your ride quality, especially for suspension lifts.
• Get a professional alignment – After installing a lift kit, an alignment is crucial to maintaining proper handling and tire wear.
• Don’t go overboard – A modest lift, usually 2 to 4 inches, often strikes the perfect balance between functionality and ride quality.

So, Should You Lift Your Truck or SUV?

Ultimately, the decision to install a lift kit comes down to your priorities. If you’re an off-road enthusiast who wants to conquer trails, a suspension lift kit is worth the trade-offs for improved capability. If you’re all about the look and don’t want to sacrifice comfort, a body lift kit might be your best bet.

Whichever route you choose, know that lift kits are one of the most rewarding modifications you can make to a truck or SUV. They let you customize your ride to match your personality and driving needs, and they look flat-out awesome doing it.

Ready to Lift Your Ride?

If you’re considering a lift kit, ExtremeTerrain has everything you need to get started. From high-quality suspension kits to the best shocks and tires for your build, we’ve got the parts to take your truck or SUV to the next level. Check out our selection today and start planning your lifted dream ride!