Lifted Jeep Wranglers: Benefits of Lift Kits & Awesome Custom Lifted Jeeps
To lift or not to lift? That is the question faced by nearly every Jeep owner. You want a lift that can boost Jeep’s performance, safety and handling. And let’s face it: Lifted Jeeps are just plain cool. How do you navigate the thousands of lift kit choices on the market? Keep reading for some recommendations on the best ways to equip your Jeep.
Is it Worth It To Lift Your Jeep?
Maybe you want to lift your Jeep to equip larger tires. Or perhaps you’re thinking about off-road suspension. These issues, plus aesthetics, drive the desire to install a lift kit. But you must also evaluate your stock Jeep’s existing performance. Most models offer a decent amount of ground clearance without a lift – for instance, the 2021 Wrangler Rubicon boasts a 10.8-inch clearance. Even the lowest 2021 Wrangler offers at least a 9.7-inch clearance.
Meanwhile, you should also consider how you use your Jeep. If you ride both on- and off-road and over easy terrain, you may be able to get by without a lift. On the other hand, lifting can be an optimal choice if you expect rocky ground, tall obstacles or water.
Pros & Cons of Lifting a Car
By increasing your Jeep’s height, you can install larger tires. It becomes easier to climb over obstacles and getting better traction on challenging terrain. Some increase your vehicle’s ground clearance, so you can also avoid damaging your undercarriage on rocks, tree roots and other debris. You’ll also reduce your chance of sucking up water into your engine and sidelining your Jeep if you must cross creeks or small ponds. Finally, a lift can improve suspension travel for a smoother ride.
Lifting a Jeep does have some drawbacks. Larger tires can decrease your gas mileage on pavement. Some lifts boost overall vehicle height. Lifts can also reduce its aerodynamics plus raise its center of gravity, putting you at greater risk for rollovers if you corner too quickly.
Is a Body or Suspension Lift Better?
While shopping, you’ll probably encounter two types of lifts – body and suspension. Body lifts boost your vehicle’s body away from its frame by using spacers. Most range between 2 and 5 inches, and they tend to cost less than suspension lifts. You can equip larger tires with a body type, but it won’t significantly increase your ground clearance.
Suspension lifts are more complicated to install. That’s because they incorporate a taller suspension system and raise your vehicle’s axles until they’re higher from the ground. They also let you install larger tires. Your suspension’s performance can also improve, thanks to the modifications that come with a lift kit.
Does a 3 Inch Lift Make a Difference?
A lift kit’s impact on your Jeep depends on the type of kit you install plus how high you go. With a 3-inch lift kit, for example, you may only lose 1 to 2 MPG in fuel economy. Once you go to 4 inches and beyond, performance gains and side effects become more obvious. Morris 4x4 Center has a wide range of lift kits plus Jeep experts who can help steer you in the right direction.
