If you’re the owner of a truck, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of leveling kits. These kits are designed to raise the front or rear of your vehicle, making it level with the other side. While this may seem like a great idea, there are actually some drawbacks to using leveling kits.
A suspension lift kit may be useful if you use your truck or SUV for off-roading. This is because the additional ground clearance can assist to avoid obstacles.
Some of the most important advantages of using a leveling kit include better handling, greater ground clearance, and improved appearance. Some of the most common drawbacks of utilizing a leveling kit include decreased fuel efficiency and smaller tire clearance.
In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of using leveling kits so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not they are right for you.
What Are Truck Leveling Kits?
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A truck leveling kit is an aftermarket suspension modification that is installed on trucks and SUVs in order to level out the vehicle.
The main purpose of installing a truck leveling kit is to make the vehicle look more aesthetically pleasing, as many people feel that a truck or SUV looks better when it is level with the ground.
In addition to improving the look of the vehicle, a truck leveling kit can also improve its performance by increasing the amount of traction that it has.
This is especially beneficial for those who take their trucks off-road frequently. While there are a number of different ways to level out a vehicle, truck leveling kits are typically the most popular and effective method.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a truck leveling kit, which will be discussed in more detail below.
The first thing to consider when choosing a truck leveling kit is the type of suspension that your vehicle has. There are two main types of suspensions: coil spring and leaf spring. Coil spring suspensions are found on newer vehicles, while leaf spring suspensions are typically found on older vehicles.
If you have a coil spring suspension, then you will need to purchase a coil spring leveling kit. If you have a leaf spring suspension, then you will need to purchase a leaf spring leveling kit.
There are also kits available that can be used for both types of suspensions. Once you have determined the type of suspension that your vehicle has, you can then begin looking at different truck leveling kits.
As mentioned above, one of the main reasons why people install truck leveling kits is to improve the appearance of their vehicle. If you are looking to improve the look of your truck or SUV, then you will want to choose a kit that is made from high-quality materials.
There are a number of different materials that can be used to make truck leveling kits, but the most popular material is aluminum. Aluminum is lightweight and durable, making it an ideal choice for those who want to improve the look of their vehicle without adding a lot of weight.
Another thing to consider when choosing a truck leveling kit is the height adjustment range. The height adjustment range is the amount of adjustability that you have in terms of how high or low your vehicle sits.
Some kits only allow for a few inches of adjustability, while others can provide up to four inches of adjustability. If you are looking to level out your vehicle completely, then you will want to choose a kit with a larger height adjustment range.
Finally, you will also want to consider the price of the truck leveling kit that you are interested in. Truck leveling kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
The price of the kit will depend on the material that it is made from, the brand, and the features that it offers. When choosing a truck leveling kit, be sure to keep all of these factors in mind in order to find the best kit for your needs.
Pros of a Leveling Kit
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There are many benefits to having a suspension leveling kit installed on your truck or SUV. In addition to improving the look of your vehicle, a suspension leveling kit can also improve its performance.
Some of the main benefits of a suspension leveling kit include:
Increased Traction
One of the biggest benefits of a suspension leveling kit is that it can increase the amount of traction that your vehicle has. This is especially beneficial for those who take their trucks off-road frequently.
Improved Handling
Another benefit of a suspension leveling kit is that it can improve the handling of your vehicle. This is due to the fact that a higher center of gravity typically results in better handling.
Enhanced Appearance
As mentioned above, one of the main reasons why people install suspension leveling kits is to improve the look of their vehicle. A suspension leveling kit can make your truck or SUV look more aggressive and muscular.
Increased Ground Clearance
One final benefit of a suspension leveling kit is that it can increase the amount of ground clearance that your vehicle has. This is beneficial for those who frequently take their vehicles off-road or through rough terrain.
No matter what your reason is for wanting a suspension leveling kit, there are many benefits that you can enjoy by having one installed on your truck or SUV.
What Are the Cons of Leveling a Leveling Kit?
While there are many benefits that come along with using a suspension leveling kit, there are also a few potential drawbacks. Some of the main disadvantages of using a suspension leveling kit include:
- Increased Weight – One of the biggest disadvantages of using a suspension leveling kit is that it can add extra weight to your vehicle. This is due to the fact that most kits are made from heavy-duty materials.
- Reduced Fuel Economy – Another potential drawback of using a suspension leveling kit is that it can reduce the fuel economy of your vehicle. This is because the extra weight of the kit can put a strain on your engine, resulting in reduced fuel efficiency.
- Decreased Tire Clearance – A final disadvantage of using a suspension leveling kit is that it can decrease the amount of tire clearance that your vehicle has. This can be a problem if you frequently take your truck or SUV off-road.
While there are some potential drawbacks to using a suspension leveling kit, the benefits typically outweigh the disadvantages. If you are looking to improve the look and performance of your truck or SUV, then a suspension lift kit may be right for you.
When Should You Use a Truck Leveling Kit?
Rough Country 2″ Leveling Kit for 2007-2018 Chevy/GMC 1500
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There are a few different situations in which you may want to use a truck leveling kit. One situation in which you may want to use a truck leveling kit is if your truck or SUV is not sitting level.
This can often be the case if your vehicle is carrying a heavy load. Using a truck leveling kit can help to level out your vehicle, resulting in a more comfortable ride.
Another situation in which you may want to use a truck leveling kit is if your vehicle does not have enough ground clearance. If you frequently take your truck or SUV off-road, then a truck leveling kit can help to increase the amount of ground clearance that your vehicle has.
A final situation in which you may want to use a truck leveling kit is if you are simply looking to improve the look of your vehicle. A truck leveling kit can give your vehicle a more aggressive and muscular appearance.
No matter what your reason is for wanting to use a truck leveling kit, there are many different situations in which it can be beneficial.
Are Leveling Kits Bad For Your Truck?
Now that you know a little bit more about suspension leveling kits, you may be wondering if they are bad for your truck or SUV. The answer to this question is that it depends.
If you use your truck or SUV for off-roading purposes, then a suspension leveling kit can actually be beneficial. This is because the extra ground clearance can help to prevent damage to your vehicle.
However, if you do not frequently take your vehicle off-road, then a suspension leveling kit may not be necessary. In fact, it could actually end up doing more harm than good. This is because the extra weight of the kit can put a strain on your engine and reduce fuel efficiency.
So, if you are wondering if a suspension leveling kit is right for you, the answer is that it depends on your individual needs and preferences.
FAQs
Can a Leveling Kit Damage My Car?
There are a few things that could potentially go wrong when installing a leveling kit, but if you follow the instructions carefully and have someone experienced help you with the installation, it should be fine.
The worst thing that could happen is that you might have to readjust the alignment of your vehicle after installing the kit. Other than that, there shouldn’t be any problems. If you’re still worried about it, you can always have a professional install the kit for you.
What’s the Difference Between a Leveling Kit And a Lift Kit?
A leveling kit is designed to level out your vehicle so that the front end is raised to be even with the rear end. A lift kit, on the other hand, will raise your entire vehicle so that it’s higher off the ground.
Leveling kits are usually less expensive and easier to install than lift kits, which is why they’re more popular. However, if you want your vehicle to be higher off the ground, you’ll need a lift kit.
Do I Need Special Tires If I Install a Leveling Kit?
No, you don’t need special tires if you install a leveling kit. In fact, you can probably continue using the same tires that you have now.
The only time you might need new tires is if you install a lift kit, which will raise your vehicle higher off the ground. In that case, you might need taller tires to avoid rubbing when you turn.
How Do I Know If I Need a Leveling Kit?
If your vehicle is sagging in the front end or if the rear end is higher than the front end, then you might need a leveling kit. You can also check your owner’s manual to see if there are any recommendations for installing a leveling kit.
Even if your vehicle doesn’t seem to be sagging, you might still want to install a leveling kit if you’re planning on adding bigger tires. Bigger tires can throw off the balance of your vehicle and make it look saggy in the front end.
Can You Install a Lift And Leveling Kit Together?
Yes, you can install a lift and leveling kit together, but it’s not necessary. If you’re just looking to level out your vehicle, then a leveling kit will probably be enough.
However, if you want your vehicle to be higher off the ground, then you’ll need a lift kit. You can also combine a leveling kit with bigger tires to achieve a similar effect as a lift kit.
Do I Need an Alignment After Installing a Leveling Kit?
It’s always a good idea to get an alignment after installing any kind of suspension component, including a leveling kit. This is because the new components can throw off the alignment of your vehicle. An alignment will ensure that your vehicle is driving straight and that the tires are wearing evenly.
How Often Do I Need to Replace My Leveling Kit?
Leveling kits are designed to be permanent, so you shouldn’t have to replace them unless something goes wrong. However, you might need to readjust the leveling kit over time as your vehicle settles. You can also add new components to your leveling kit, such as taller shocks, to achieve a different look.
Conclusion
Some of the main benefits of using a leveling kit include improved handling, increased ground clearance, and enhanced appearances. Some of the main disadvantages of using a leveling kit include decreased fuel economy and reduced tire clearance.
When deciding whether or not to use a leveling kit, it is important to weigh the pros and cons to see if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. If you are simply looking to improve the look of your vehicle, then a leveling kit may be right for you.
However, if you frequently take your truck or SUV off-road, then you may want to reconsider using a leveling kit. This is because the increased ground clearance can actually make it more difficult to navigate rough terrain.
No matter what your reason is for wanting a suspension leveling kit, there are many benefits that you can enjoy by having one installed on your truck or SUV.
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FAQs
Are there any downsides to a leveling kit? ›
Increased Wear on Suspension
If a front-end leveling kit is installed incorrectly, it can cause increased wear and tear on the suspension system. The good news is that this con can be avoided by using expert technicians to professionally install and maintain the leveling kit.
A leveling kit will change the overall design of the vehicle, which will result in increased wear and tear on the suspension system. The good news is that there is a way to avoid these problems with professional installation and routine maintenance.
Does a leveling kit affect handling? ›Adding a body leveling kit has no real impact on the suspension system. However, it can affect handling. It raises the vehicle's center of gravity, making it slightly tippy around corners. A body leveling kit is another relatively inexpensive method for adding needed space for larger wheels and tires.
How many inches should I level my truck? ›Most leveling kits add two inches to the front, so two inches of rake is pretty common, but some vehicles vary in height, so you may need to find a kit that's a little more flexible in terms of raising the suspension.
Is it better to lift or leveling your truck? ›A leveling kit is a great choice for the driver who wants larger tires or more ground clearance for their day-to-day. Lifting kits are significantly more complex and expensive, but they give you the room you'll need to install tires of up to 40 inches in diameter.
Do leveling kits wear out ball joints? ›However, the increased angle and pressure that lift kits can add to these ball joints can cause them to wear out quickly, and in extreme cases, they can fail, which snaps the wheel sideways, leading you to end up on the side of the road - that's a bad day.
Is there a benefit to leveling your truck? ›Leveling your truck or SUV will give you extra space to fit a larger set of tires. Reducing the rake creates more space between the tire and wheel arch. Adding larger tires will and a leveling kit will make your vehicle sit much higher than it did stock.
Does a lift kit cause problems? ›Even installed properly, a lift kit creates problems of its own: Raising the truck also raises its centre of gravity (CG). Ideally, the CG is low to the ground, which improves stability, but increasing CG height increases the chance the truck could end up on its side after a sudden swerve or panic braking.
Will putting a leveling kit on my truck void the warranty? ›Lifting your truck past 2” (or at all for some brands, like Toyota) will void the warranty on parts that are affected or damaged by the lift kit. However, anything not related to or affected by the lift kit will still be covered. So, if a head gasket is leaking or your A/C unit goes kaput, they'll still be covered.
Do lift kits affect braking and handling? ›Additionally, lift kits can also lead to decreased steering and braking ability and function. Steering geometry can be impacted by a higher center of gravity and larger tires.
Does a lift kit affect gas mileage? ›
A suspension lift will also add weight to your truck reducing fuel efficiency, therefore, choosing lighter weight kit components will mitigate greater fuel consumption.
Do I need new shocks with a 2 inch leveling kit? ›In order for a 2-inch leveling kit to work properly, the shocks on your truck must be compatible. Some trucks come with shocks that are already compatible with a 2-inch leveling kit, while others require that you purchase new shocks separately.
How much should it cost to level a truck? ›Although the changes are mostly cosmetic, it is possible to use levelling kits to raise the truck's body by 1-2 inches. Cost: Expect to pay between $100 and $500 for a levelling kit, before the cost of labor.
How do I know what leveling kit I need? ›If you're buying the front kit only, just purchase that height (we recommend rounding down if you're in between heights). If you're buying a full kit, you will have to do some more math to find out what you need. For example, if the rear minus the front was 2", then you need a 2" front kit to have your truck sit level.
Why are trucks not level? ›Lift versus Level
On any stock truck coming straight from the manufacturer, the rear of the vehicle sits a few inches higher than the front end. This is called a raked stance. Trucks are designed this way intentionally. The higher backend means less risk to the factory rear suspension under a heavy load.
They are known for providing subtle enhancements and are often used to provide a lift for adding larger tires without a noticeable difference. Leveling kits also level out the nose dip on most trucks. The increased ground clearance might be exactly what you're looking for.
Does a leveling kit raise the back? ›As the name implies, leveling kits are designed to level the height of your vehicle. They raise the front of the vehicle by one or two inches, so it's the same height as the back. These kits generally cost less than lift kits, and they're much easier to install.
Do I need upper control arms for a leveling kit? ›If you're adding a lift kit to your vehicle, remember that the upper control arm influences wheel travel, suspension durability, and wheel alignment. If you're looking for a suspension modification that improves overall vehicle performance with no compromises, a replacement control arm is a good place to start.
Do you need an alignment after installing a leveling kit? ›Yes, your 4×4 will need an alignment after the installation of a leveling kit. All IFS 4x4s will need a full alignment, while solid-axle 4x4s can typically get by with centering the steering wheel via the draglink adjustment. Some solid-axle 4x4s will also require caster adjustment for proper handling and road manners.
Can a lift kit cause death wobble? ›Technically, no, lift kits are not always the problem. Many vehicle owners who do lift their vehicle have not had problems with the death wobble occurring to them, but it has been known that vehicles with a 2.5-inch lift kit or higher can have instances where the death wobble can occur.
Do lift kits affect resale value? ›
Resale – A reasonable-height aftermarket lift kit probably won't hurt the resale value if you can find the right buyer. In fact, with that buyer, it might even increase resale value. However, any vehicle customizing will reduce your pool of potential buyers.
Why does my lifted truck ride so rough? ›When you lift your truck, whether it's by two inches or twelve, you'll change the truck's center of gravity. Your truck will sit higher off the ground, so the center of gravity will be slightly higher as well. This means your truck may not be as stable once the lift kit has been installed.
Can a leveling kit be removed? ›Can I Remove a Leveling Kit? If you own a leveled truck, you can return it to stock easily. You just need to remove the leveling kit, easy peasy. This does not apply to “Level-Lifts” or any other kit which includes drop crossmembers.
Should I put a leveling kit on my f150? ›A lift or leveling kit can really elevate the ride height, handling, and capabilities of your Ford F-150. No matter if you'd like to make purely cosmetic changes with new wheels or you want enhanced off-road performance, there's a lift or leveling kit that will get the job done.
What can I do to my truck without voiding the warranty? ›- Suspension. To start, coilovers and a combination of springs or shocks are a safe bet. ...
- Cat-Back Exhaust. ...
- Wheels. ...
- Brakes. ...
- Sway Bars. ...
- Short Shifter. ...
- Exterior Mods.
Never lower a vehicle onto the vehicle support stand. Never try to stabilize a falling vehicle — get out of the way! Make sure the wheels are properly chocked on drive-on lifts. Only use equipment provided by the manufacturer.
Do lift kits damage vehicles? ›Improper installation can cause a slew of problems down the road for your car. Keep in mind that DIY jobs can also risk your safety because improperly installed lift kits can cause damage to your vehicle's suspension, frame, or body.
How long do lift kits last? ›Superlift kits are designed to last about 10 years or some. Many models last a few extra years, but it's impossible to tell how long any specific lift kit will last. As mentioned above, proper maintenance will allow your Superlift lift kit to push well beyond expectations.
How can I increase the mpg of my lifted truck? ›Cold-Air Intake System - Installing a cold-air intake system on your truck can improve your fuel economy by 3 to 5 gallons. This is because a cold-air system allows your engine to take in air more freely. Meaning you need less fuel to keep things moving.
How much does a shop charge to install a leveling kit? ›Buying and installing a leveling kit yourself might cost between $400 to $2000. With a professional, you might spend between $800 to $4000. Buying and installing a lift kit might cost between $400 to $4000 if you do it yourself.
How much will a 2 inch leveling kit raise my truck? ›
A 2″ Body Lift or Leveling Kit will typically give you enough room for 3-4″ increase in tire size and a 3″ Body Lift could give you enough room for up to 35″ tires! If your suspension lift is tall enough, then you can just go down your local tire shop and order the biggest set of tires they make.
How thick is a 2 inch leveling kit? ›This kit will raise the front of the truck by 2", but the actual thickness is about 1".
Does a leveling kit count as a lift? ›The Difference Between Leveling Kits & Lift Kits
Lift kits include a system of suspension components that lift the entire vehicle high off the ground. Leveling kits raise the front-end of a vehicle by a few inches, correcting the nose-down stance and making it level with the height of the back.
Leveling your truck or SUV will give you extra space to fit a larger set of tires. Reducing the rake creates more space between the tire and wheel arch. Adding larger tires will and a leveling kit will make your vehicle sit much higher than it did stock.