July 31, 2025

Suspension System VS Lift Kit: What You Need To Know

LIFT KITS VS SUSPENSION SYSTEMS

You might hear the two terms thrown around interchangeably, however, the reality is these are two different services and what you decide to do will have a big impact on your wallet and the long term plans for your vehicle.

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Our shop offers free estimates and ball park quotes. If you're ready to start this process, give us a call and we'll be happy to help you out.

First things first: You need to decide what you want to do with your rig in the long term. If you envision long trail rides and big obstacles with your buddies, then you should look to invest in the suspension system. If you're in the market for height adjustment and overall curb appeal, but not really needing the adjustability and range of the full system, then the lift kit is likely to be your best bet.

With that in mind - let's look at the key differences between Suspension Systems and Lift Kits.

Lift Kits

Almost every off-road shop will have this service, but be cautious when deciding who will work on your vehicle. Don't go with the cheapest option you can find, and make sure you ask questions before you invest!

Purpose:

Primarily designed to alter the physical appearance of a vehicle.
Used to fit larger tires and increase the ride height of the vehicle.

Components:

Entry-level lift kits may include basic components like spacers and shock extensions.
More advanced lift kits may come with additional parts such as springs, shocks, control arms, and track bars, depending on the vehicle.

Use Case:

Ideal for those who want to enhance the cosmetic appeal of their vehicle without significantly altering its performance.
Suitable for vehicles that are mainly used on roads and not heavily involved in off-roading activities.

Benefits:

Provides a noticeable lift, making the vehicle look more robust and capable.
Allows for the installation of larger tires which can also enhance the vehicle's aesthetic and ground clearance.

Considerations:

- Ideal for those who want to enhance the cosmetic appeal of their vehicle without significantly altering its performance.
Lift kits are not primarily designed to improve off-road performance, although they can handle light off-roading.

Suspension Systems

A system upgrade is a much bigger - and some might say better - investment. Look at this as the foundation from which everything else will be built on.

Purpose:

Designed to improve the overall handling, ride quality, and off-road capability of a vehicle.
Enhances both the performance and comfort of the vehicle.

Components:

A comprehensive suspension system may include upgraded springs, shocks, control arms, sway bars, and other critical components tailored to enhance both on-road and off-road performance.

Use Case:

Ideal for those who frequently engage in off-roading or require improved handling and ride quality for various terrains.
Suitable for vehicles that are used in demanding conditions, providing better stability, traction, and control.

Benefits:

Enhances the vehicle's ability to tackle rough terrains and absorb impacts.
Improves the handling dynamics, making the vehicle safer and more comfortable to drive.
Typically designed to work seamlessly with the vehicle’s existing systems, ensuring optimal performance.

Considerations:

Suspension systems can be more expensive and complex to install compared to lift kits.
Proper installation and alignment are crucial to maximizing the benefits and ensuring the longevity of the components.

In summary, lift kits are excellent for those looking to modify their vehicle's appearance and achieve a higher ride height, while suspension systems are more suited for improving overall vehicle performance, particularly in off-road conditions.

At Tribe16, we aren't here to sway you one way or the other, but rather to better understand your vision and help you get there.