What’s the Difference Between a Lift Kit and a Leveling Kit?

If you’re thinking about modifying your vehicle’s suspension, there are two popular choices available:

Lift kits and leveling kits.

But before you choose which one to install on your vehicle, it’s important to understand the differences.

Here’s a look at what sets these two kits apart:

Lift Kits

What Does a Lift Kit Do?

A lift kit raises the overall height of your vehicle and provides increased ground clearance. It also gives you the opportunity to install larger tires.

If you’re an off-road enthusiast, a lift kit can help your vehicle handle rough terrain and obstacles!

By lifting both the front and rear of the vehicle, a lift kit has several benefits:

• Improved Off-Road Performance: Higher ground clearance allows for better navigation over rocks, mud, and other obstacles without damaging the vehicle’s undercarriage.
• Enhanced Style: Many truck and SUV owners prefer the aggressive, towering look that a lift kit provides.
• Increased Visibility: Sitting higher up in your vehicle can offer better visibility of the road ahead and over traffic.

However, it’s important to note that lift kits can alter the center of gravity, which may affect handling and fuel efficiency.

Can I Install a Lift Kit Myself?

Installing a lift kit can be a complicated process that usually requires specialized tools and knowledge. While some experienced DIYers might be able to handle it, it’s not a great idea. We recommend professional installation to make sure the lift kit is safe and installed correctly.

What Is Ongoing Maintenance Like?

Ongoing maintenance for a lift kit includes regular checks on suspension parts to make sure everything stays tight and in good condition.

Key maintenance tasks include:

• Inspecting for wear and tear on the shocks, struts, and other parts of the suspension system.
• Tightening bolts and fasteners that can loosen over time due to vibrations.
• Checking alignment to make sure the vehicle handles properly and the tires wear evenly.
• Monitoring tire pressure of larger tires, which may require different pressure levels than stock tires.

Proper maintenance will help keep the integrity of your vehicle’s suspension and extend the life of your life kit.

Leveling Kits

What Does a Leveling Kit Do?

A leveling kit is designed to level the front of your vehicle with the rear to correct the factory rake where the rear sits higher than the front. 

This is particularly useful for trucks that carry heavy loads in the bed, keeping the vehicle balanced and in an even stance.

The benefits of a leveling kit include:

• Improved Look: By leveling the front and rear, the vehicle has a more uniform and balanced appearance.
• Better Load Handling: Leveling kits can help maintain proper vehicle stance when hauling heavy loads, preventing the front from dipping too low.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to full lift kits, leveling kits are generally more affordable and simpler to install.

A leveling kit provides a subtle lift, around 1-2 inches, that can also accommodate slightly larger tires while significantly changing the vehicle’s center of gravity.

Can I Install a Leveling Kit Myself?

Leveling kits are generally easier to install than lift kits and can be installed using basic tools and a bit of mechanical knowledge. However, for the best results, professional installation is always a good idea to make sure it’s done right and everything is safe.

What Is Ongoing Maintenance Like?

Maintenance for leveling kits involves regular inspections similar to those for lift kits. Key maintenance tasks include:

• Inspecting suspension components for signs of wear and tear or damage on the spacers, struts, or other parts.
• Tightening bolts and fasteners to prevent any parts from becoming loose.
• Checking wheel alignment to maintain proper handling and tire wear.
• Monitoring tire pressure for optimal performance and tire longevity.

Properly maintaining your leveling kit will help keep your vehicle performing at its best and prevent potential issues down the road.

Deciding Between a Lift Kit and a Leveling Kit

If you’re trying to decide between a lift kit and a leveling kit, here are some questions you can ask yourself to make the right choice:

What Do You Use Your Vehicle For?

Think about what you use your vehicle for.

If you frequently go off-road and need significant ground clearance, a lift kit is ideal. It gives you the extra height you need to navigate rough terrain and obstacles.

On the other hand, if you mainly drive on paved roads and need to haul heavy loads, a leveling kit is probably more suitable. It will give you the balance you need without changing your vehicle’s height.

What is Your Budget?

Budget is another thing you need to keep in mind when deciding between a lift kit and a leveling kit.

Lift kits are usually more expensive and involve a more complex installation process, while leveling kits are more affordable and simpler to install.

Making the best choice is all about weighing what you need against what you can afford.

How Will the Modification Affect Your Vehicle?

Consider how the modification will affect your vehicle’s handling, fuel efficiency, and ride comfort.

Lift kits can alter the vehicle’s center of gravity, which can impact handling and fuel consumption. The ride quality can also be a little stiffer.

Leveling kits have a lesser impact on handling and fuel efficiency since they modify fewer components of your vehicle.

Do You Want a Subtle Lift or a Dramatic Change?

What do you want your vehicle to look like? Do you want a slight lift, or do you want a dramatic height change?

Lift kits offer a more pronounced change, which is perfect if you want your vehicle to stand out and perform off-road. Leveling kits have a more understated look if you want a sleeker look.

Leveling Kits and Lift Kits in Edmonton

At Park Muffler, we offer the highest quality leveling kits and lift kits in Edmonton, all stocked on-site for quick installation.

Our expert team has years of experience with suspension lifts and guarantees that your installation is done right.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can enhance your vehicle’s performance and appearance with a suspension modification!