Jeep Wranglers are iconic off-road vehicles, beloved for their rugged capabilities and timeless design. Many Wrangler owners crave even more ground clearance and off-road prowess.
A well-chosen lift kit can significantly improve your Wrangler’s performance both on and off the trail.
With many options available, selecting the best lift kit for your Jeep Wrangler requires careful consideration of several factors.
Understanding Lift Kit Basics
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s essential to grasp the basic concepts behind lift kits. A lift kit raises the height of your Jeep, providing increased ground clearance and allowing for larger tires.
There are two primary types of lift kits: body lifts and suspension lifts.
1. Body Lifts
Body lifts use spacers to raise the body of the Jeep away from the frame. These kits are generally less expensive and easier to install.
However, they don’t provide any additional suspension travel or improve off-road performance significantly.
2. Suspension Lifts
Suspension lifts alter the suspension components to increase the overall height of the vehicle. These kits are more popular for Wranglers as they provide better off-road performance and maintain the vehicle’s stock geometry.
Suspension lifts can range from simple spacer lifts to complex long-arm systems.
The height of lift kits typically ranges from 1.5 inches to 6 inches or more. It’s crucial to remember that most states have legal limits on vehicle lift height, often around 4-6 inches.
Always check your local regulations before committing to a lift kit.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lift Kit
1. Intended Use
The first and most crucial factor in selecting a lift kit is determining how you plan to use your Wrangler. Your intended use will significantly influence the type and height of lift kit that’s best for you.
For daily drivers with occasional off-road use, a moderate 2-3 inch lift often provides the best balance. This height increase allows for larger tires (up to 33 inches) and improved ground clearance without drastically altering the Jeep’s on-road behavior.
Serious off-road enthusiasts might opt for larger lifts of 4 inches or more, which can accommodate tires up to 37 inches or larger. These extreme lifts often require extra modifications and can significantly impact on-road performance.
2. Budget
Quality lift kits can range from $500 to over $3,000, not including installation costs. Investing in a high-quality kit from reputable manufacturers like Teraflex, Rubicon Express, or Old Man Emu can provide better performance, longevity, and maintain better on-road manners.
Remember to factor in the cost of professional installation if you’re not planning to do it yourself. A proper lift kit installation can take anywhere from 4-12 hours, depending on complexity.
3. Lift Height
The height of your lift kit will determine your ground clearance and the size of tires you can run. Here’s a general guideline:
- 1.5-2 inch lift: Allows for 31-32 inch tires
- 2.5-3 inch lift: Accommodates 33 inch tires
- 3.5-4 inch lift: Fits 35 inch tires
- 4.5-6 inch lift: Allows for 37 inch tires or larger
Keep in mind that larger lifts often require extra modifications, such as longer brake lines, extended driveshafts, and potentially regearing your differentials.
4. Kit Components
A quality lift kit should include more than just springs or spacers. Look for kits that provide a comprehensive solution, including:
- Coil springs
- Shock absorbers
- Control arms (preferably adjustable)
- Track bar (adjustable for lifts over 2 inches)
- Brake line extensions
- Bump stops
Premium kits may also include features like sway bar disconnects, which can greatly enhance off-road articulation.
Top Lift Kit Recommendations
Based on the factors we’ve discussed, here are some top lift kit recommendations for different Wrangler uses:
For Daily Drivers with Light Off-Road Use
Teraflex 2.5′ Sport S/T2 Lift Kit
This kit provides a moderate lift with minimal impact on daily drivability. It includes quality components and maintains good on-road manners.
The Teraflex Sport S/T2 kit is designed to improve your Wrangler’s off-road capabilities without sacrificing comfort during daily driving.
Key features:
- 2.5 inches of lift
- High-quality coil springs
- Sport shock absorbers
- Front and rear sway bar links
- Brake line extensions
The Teraflex kit is known for it’s ease of installation and excellent ride quality. It’s a great choice for those who want to upgrade their Wrangler’s appearance and off-road performance without compromising daily drivability.
Rubicon Express 2.5′ Standard Coil Lift Kit
Another excellent option for daily drivers, this kit offers improved off-road performance without sacrificing comfort. Rubicon Express is known for their high-quality components and attention to detail.
Key features:
- 2.5 inches of lift
- Progressive rate coil springs
- Twin-tube shock absorbers
- Extended sway bar links
- Brake line brackets
The Rubicon Express kit provides a balanced lift that enhances your Wrangler’s capabilities both on and off-road. It’s designed to maintain factory-like handling characteristics while providing additional ground clearance and tire clearance.
For Serious Off-Road Enthusiasts
Metalcloak 3.5′ Game-Changer Suspension Kit
This comprehensive kit provides excellent articulation and off-road performance. It’s highly adjustable and includes high-quality components.
The Metalcloak Game-Changer kit is designed for those who often tackle challenging terrain but still need their Wrangler to perform well on the street.
Key features:
- 3.5 inches of lift
- Dual-rate coil springs
- 6-pak shock absorbers
- Adjustable control arms
- Front and rear track bars
- Sway bar disconnects
The Game-Changer kit lives up to it’s name by dramatically improving your Wrangler’s off-road performance. The adjustable components allow for fine-tuning of the suspension to suit your specific needs and driving style.
Rock Krawler 3.5′ X-Factor Plus System
Known for it’s durability and performance, this kit is ideal for those who often tackle challenging terrain. Rock Krawler has a reputation for building some of the toughest suspension systems on the market.
Key features:
- 3.5 inches of lift
- Linear rate coil springs
- RRD shocks
- Adjustable control arms
- Front and rear track bars
- Extended sway bar links
The X-Factor Plus system is designed to provide maximum articulation and control in extreme off-road situations. It’s a popular choice among rock crawling enthusiasts and those who join in off-road competitions.
For Extreme Off-Roading
Teraflex 6′ Long Arm Suspension System
This kit provides massive ground clearance and articulation. It’s a finish system that includes everything needed for an extreme lift. The Teraflex 6-inch Long Arm system is designed for Wrangler owners who want to push their vehicles to the absolute limit off-road.
Key features:
- 6 inches of lift
- Long arm suspension geometry
- High-clearance skid plate
- Adjustable track bars
- Heavy-duty coil springs
- 9550 VSS shocks
The long arm design of this kit provides superior articulation and control, even in the most challenging off-road situations. Keep in mind that a lift of this magnitude will significantly alter your Wrangler’s on-road behavior and may require additional modifications to other vehicle systems.
Rubicon Express 4.5′ Extreme-Duty Long Arm Kit
Another excellent option for those seeking maximum off-road capability, this kit offers superior articulation and durability. Rubicon Express designed this kit for serious off-road enthusiasts who demand the best performance in extreme conditions.
Key features:
- 4.5 inches of lift
- Long arm suspension geometry
- Super-flex joints
- Adjustable track bars
- Progressive rate coil springs
- Twin-tube shocks
The Extreme-Duty Long Arm kit provides exceptional off-road performance while still maintaining reasonable on-road manners. Like the Teraflex 6-inch system, this kit will require additional modifications to other vehicle systems to ensure proper function and safety.
Installation Considerations
While some experienced DIY mechanics might tackle a lift kit installation themselves, most Wrangler owners opt for professional installation. This ensures proper setup and alignment, which is crucial for both performance and safety.
If you do decide to install the kit yourself, be prepared for a time-consuming process. Even basic lifts can take a full day, while more complex systems might require a weekend or more.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Tools: Ensure you have all the necessary tools before starting.
This may include a torque wrench, spring compressor, and various sockets and wrenches.
- Safety: Always use jack stands when working under your Jeep.
Never rely solely on a jack to support the vehicle.
- Alignment: After installation, a professional alignment is crucial.
This ensures proper tire wear and handling characteristics.
- Break-in period: Allow time for the new suspension components to settle.
Recheck all bolts and alignments after about 500 miles.
- Additional modifications: Depending on the lift height, you may need to address other areas such as driveshafts, steering components, and brake lines.
Potential Drawbacks and How to Mitigate Them
While lift kits offer many benefits, they also come with some potential drawbacks:
Increased rollover risk
Higher center of gravity can increase the risk of rollover. Mitigate this by driving cautiously and avoiding sharp turns at high speeds. Consider installing a roll cage for additional safety, especially if you plan on serious off-roading.
Reduced fuel economy
Larger tires and increased wind resistance can decrease fuel efficiency by 1-3 mpg. Consider regearing your differentials to help offset this.
Proper tire inflation and regular maintenance can also help minimize fuel economy losses.
Wear on components
Lifted Jeeps can experience increased wear on suspension and drivetrain components. Regular maintenance and using quality parts can help mitigate this issue.
Pay special attention to ball joints, tie rods, and u-joints, as these components often experience increased stress in lifted vehicles.
Changes in handling
Lifted Wranglers may experience changes in steering feel and stability. Quality shocks and proper alignment can help maintain good handling characteristics.
Consider upgrading to a steering stabilizer to reduce steering wobble, especially with larger tires.
Adapting Your Driving Style
After installing a lift kit, you’ll need to adapt your driving style, especially if you’ve opted for a significant lift. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Height awareness: Be aware of your increased height when entering parking garages or drive-throughs.
It’s easy to forget about your new dimensions, so always be cautious in low-clearance areas.
- Cornering: Take corners more slowly and be mindful of your higher center of gravity.
Lifted Jeeps are more prone to body roll, so smooth, gradual turns are key to maintaining stability.
- Braking distance: With larger, heavier tires, your braking distance may increase.
Allow for more stopping distance, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
- Off-road capabilities: Your approach, departure, and breakover angles have improved. This allows you to tackle more challenging obstacles, but remember to start slow and build your skills gradually.
- Wind effects: Your lifted Wrangler may be more susceptible to crosswinds, especially on highways.
Be prepared to make small steering corrections to maintain your lane.
Exercises to Test Your New Setup
To get a feel for your lifted Wrangler, try these exercises:
- Low-speed maneuvering: Find a safe, open area to practice low-speed maneuvering.
Get a sense of your new turning radius and how the Jeep responds to steering inputs.
- Mild off-road testing: If possible, visit a mild off-road trail to test your improved ground clearance and articulation.
Start with easier obstacles and work your way up.
- Parking practice: Practice parallel parking and backing up.
Your new height may change your perception, so it’s good to get comfortable in a safe environment.
- Highway driving: Take your Wrangler on the highway to get a feel for how it handles at higher speeds. Pay attention to any changes in stability or wind sensitivity.
- Obstacle course: Set up a simple obstacle course in a safe area using cones or other markers.
Practice navigating tight turns and simulated trail obstacles to improve your spatial awareness with the new lift.
Maintenance Tips for Lifted Wranglers
Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping your lifted Wrangler performing at it’s best. Here are some key maintenance tips:
- Regular inspections: Frequently inspect your suspension components, including shocks, springs, and control arms, for signs of wear or damage.
- Tire rotations: With larger tires and altered suspension geometry, regular tire rotations are even more important to ensure even wear.
- Alignment checks: Have your alignment checked more often, especially if you notice any unusual tire wear or steering issues.
- Grease fittings: If your lift kit includes greasable components, make sure to lubricate them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Shock absorber maintenance: Check your shocks for leaks or signs of wear.
Replace them as needed to maintain optimal performance.
- Driveline angles: Periodically check your driveshaft angles, especially if you’ve installed a significant lift. Improper angles can lead to vibrations and premature wear.
- Brake system: With larger tires, your brake system may be under more stress.
Pay attention to brake performance and consider upgrading if necessary.
Legal Considerations
Before installing a lift kit, it’s important to be aware of any legal restrictions in your area. Here are some points to consider:
- Height restrictions: Many states have maximum vehicle height restrictions.
Check your local laws to ensure your planned lift is legal.
- Bumper height laws: Some areas have laws regarding bumper height.
Make sure your lifted Wrangler complies with these regulations.
- Lighting regulations: With a taller vehicle, you may need to adjust your headlights to avoid blinding other drivers.
Some areas have specific laws about headlight height and aim.
- Tire coverage: Many jurisdictions require that tires be fully covered by fenders or mud flaps.
Ensure your new setup complies with these rules.
- Emissions laws: In some areas, significant modifications to your vehicle may require additional emissions testing or certification.
Choosing the Right Tires
Selecting the right tires for your lifted Wrangler is crucial for both performance and safety. Here are some factors to consider:
- Size: Choose a tire size that fits your new lift without rubbing.
Consider both diameter and width.
- Tread pattern: Select a tread pattern that matches your intended use.
All-terrain tires are a good compromise for mixed on and off-road use, while mud-terrain tires excel off-road but can be noisy on pavement.
- Load rating: Ensure your new tires have an appropriate load rating for your Wrangler, especially if you’ve added heavy accessories.
- Balancing: Larger tires can be more challenging to balance.
Consider using stick-on weights or internal balancing compounds for better results.
- Spare tire: Don’t forget to upgrade your spare tire to match your new setup.
Additional Modifications to Consider
After lifting your Wrangler, you might want to consider these additional modifications:
- Regearing: If you’ve significantly increased your tire size, regearing your differentials can help restore proper performance and fuel economy.
- Steering stabilizer: A upgraded steering stabilizer can help reduce steering wobble, especially with larger tires.
- Extended brake lines: For higher lifts, you may need longer brake lines to accommodate the increased suspension travel.
- Adjustable track bar: An adjustable track bar can help center your axle and improve handling, especially with lifts over 3 inches.
- Upgraded shocks: While many lift kits include shocks, upgrading to high-quality adjustable shocks can further improve your Wrangler’s performance.
- Skid plates: With increased ground clearance, you might be tempted to tackle more challenging terrain. Additional skid plates can protect vital components.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to lift a Jeep Wrangler?
The cost of lifting a Jeep Wrangler can vary widely depending on the type and height of the lift, as well as whether you install it yourself or have it professionally installed. Basic 2-inch lift kits can start around $500, while more comprehensive 4-inch or larger kits can cost $2,000 or more. Professional installation typically adds $500 to $1,500 to the cost.
Will lifting my Jeep void the warranty?
Lifting your Jeep can potentially void parts of your warranty, particularly if the lift causes damage to other components. However, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers from having their entire warranty voided because of aftermarket modifications.
It’s best to check with your dealer and carefully review your warranty terms before proceeding with a lift.
What size tires can I fit with a 2.5-inch lift on a Jeep Wrangler?
With a 2.5-inch lift on a Jeep Wrangler, you can typically fit 33-inch tires without any additional modifications. However, this can vary depending on the specific year and model of your Wrangler, as well as the width of the tires you choose.
Do I need to regear my Jeep after lifting it?
Whether you need to regear your Jeep after lifting depends on how much you’ve increased your tire size. As a general rule, if you’ve increased your tire diameter by more than 3 inches, regearing is recommended to maintain proper performance and fuel economy.
For smaller increases in tire size, regearing may not be necessary.
How does lifting a Jeep affect it’s handling?
Lifting a Jeep can affect it’s handling in several ways. It raises the center of gravity, which can increase body roll and make the vehicle more susceptible to tipping.
It can also change the steering feel and potentially increase the turning radius.
However, quality lift kits are designed to minimize these effects and maintain good handling characteristics.
Can I install a lift kit myself?
While it’s possible to install a lift kit yourself if you have the right tools and mechanical knowledge, it’s a complex job that requires careful attention to detail. Many Jeep owners choose to have lift kits professionally installed to ensure proper setup and alignment.
If you do decide to install it yourself, be prepared for a time-consuming process and consider having a professional alignment done afterward.
How much lift do I need to fit 35-inch tires on my Jeep Wrangler?
To fit 35-inch tires on a Jeep Wrangler, you typically need at least a 3.5-inch lift. However, some minor trimming or the use of wheel spacers may still be necessary depending on the specific tire width and wheel offset you choose. A 4-inch lift will generally allow 35-inch tires to fit without any additional modifications.
Will lifting my Jeep affect it’s fuel economy?
Yes, lifting your Jeep can affect it’s fuel economy. The increased height creates more wind resistance, and larger tires increase rolling resistance.
These factors can reduce fuel efficiency by 1-3 mpg or more, depending on the height of the lift and the size of the tires.
Proper gearing can help mitigate some of this loss.
What is the difference between a body lift and a suspension lift?
A body lift raises only the body of the Jeep away from the frame using spacers, while a suspension lift raises the entire vehicle by modifying the suspension components. Body lifts are generally less expensive and don’t affect the vehicle’s geometry, but they don’t improve ground clearance or suspension articulation.
Suspension lifts provide better off-road performance but are more complex and expensive.
How often should I align my Jeep after installing a lift kit?
After installing a lift kit, you should have your Jeep aligned immediately. Following that, it’s a good idea to have the alignment checked every 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Pay attention to any uneven tire wear or steering issues, as these can show that an alignment is needed sooner.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a lift height based on your intended use and local regulations.
- Invest in quality components from reputable manufacturers.
- Consider professional installation for proper setup and alignment.
- Be prepared for changes in handling and fuel economy.
- Adapt your driving style to account for your Jeep’s new capabilities and limitations.