Installing a lift kit on a truck is how many home mechanics cut their teeth. While not the hardest job in the world, it still takes steady hands, decent tools, and a working brain to pull off. Once you’ve done it, you can wear the grease on your hands like a badge of honor.
The great thing about living in the modern age is that even if you get stuck, you can always lean on the internet for help. Between forums and video tutorials, there’s always someone out there ready to walk you through it. Still, it’s smart to go in with a little insight—or at least a checklist to fall back on. That’s why we’re taking a minute to cover some of the most common mistakes people make when installing lift kits, and how you can avoid them.
Start Smart: Match the Lift to the Job
One of the most common—and costly—mistakes is choosing the wrong lift or leveling kit for your setup. It’s easy to get excited, install the whole thing, and only then realize it doesn’t suit your driving needs or the tires you wanted to run.
Not all lift kits are created equal. Even if two kits promise the same lift height, the included components (like shocks, spacers, or steering stabilizers) can vary dramatically. That’s why it’s crucial to dig into the details and make sure the kit comes with everything your vehicle actually needs.
If you’re pairing your lift with aftermarket wheels and tires, double-check the fitment. Most lift kit manufacturers provide tire clearance specs to guide you. If you’re unsure, call a tech before you click “Buy.” It’ll save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
Common Mistakes When Installing Lift Kits
Once you’ve got the lift kit in hand and confirmed it’s the right one for your setup, it’s time to start the install. The process can vary widely depending on your vehicle and the type of lift you’re using, so don’t wing it—read the instructions carefully and follow them step by step.
Below are some of the most common mistakes to watch for while you work.
Inaccurate Measurements
This is where most problems start. Whether it’s tire clearance, shock length, brake line reach, or driveshaft angle, sloppy measurements will come back to bite you. And unfortunately, you usually don’t find out they’re off until the part is already installed and something doesn’t fit—or worse, fails on the road. Double-check everything before you order and then again during the install to avoid any costly “adjustments.”
Installing Parts Out of Order
Lift kits follow a very specific installation sequence for a reason. If you jump around or skip steps, you risk having to backtrack or disassemble something just to get to a part you missed. Following the recommended order ensures the components settle correctly and avoids added strain on your suspension or steering components. So, take your time and follow the steps as listed by the manufacturer.
Not Torquing Bolts to Spec
Get a torque wrench and use it. You don't need a super high-end one to do the job right. Better tools are worth the money, but even the most affordable option is better than nothing. Under-torqued bolts can loosen up over time, and over-torqued ones can stretch or strip. Making sure bolts are snugged to spec will make sure everything stays right where you put it, and there won’t be any ride quality issues or vibrations when the rubber hits the road.
Skipping Brake Line or Driveshaft Mods
A taller ride height changes more than just your view of the road. Stock brake lines may be too short to accommodate the increased suspension travel after a lift, which can lead to dangerous tension under load. Driveshaft angles also shift, which can cause binding or vibration. You may need longer brake lines, a double cardan joint, or even a longer driveshaft—depending on your lift size and drivetrain. Don’t skip these upgrades just because they aren’t in the box.
Overlooking Steering Geometry
Lifting a vehicle doesn’t just raise it; it also changes the angle of everything attached to the frame. That includes your steering components. A kit might include special components to help correct the geometry, but you’ll still need to make further adjustments and get a proper alignment afterward.
Assuming the Shop Will Handle Everything
If you’re outsourcing the job to a shop, make sure you get a detailed quote upfront and everyone agrees on exactly what work they’ll cover during the install. Most good shops will handle everything you expect, but don’t assume—they might skip steps you thought were included, leaving you with an unpleasant surprise when all is said and done.
Forgetting to Retorque After Break-In
Many manufacturers recommend rechecking all torque specs after 500 miles. Suspension components settle, and bolts can loosen slightly under load. Set a reminder and give everything a once-over to keep your ride safe and tight.
3 Signs You Picked the Wrong Lift Kit
Once your lift kit is installed, it’s tempting to jump straight to mounting tires and hitting the road for that first ride. But before you do, take a moment to inspect a few things. These three red flags might mean the lift kit you chose wasn’t the best fit for your setup.
- Not Enough Tire Clearance: First and foremost, take a minute to cycle the steering and suspension to verify your tires have enough room to move freely. If you’re seeing any rubbing, binding, or contact with the fenders, the lift may not provide the clearance you need. In some cases, a set of wheel spacers may correct the issue—but this might also be a sign the kit doesn’t match your wheel and tire combo.
- No Real Improvement in Suspension: Entry-level lift kits often skip upgraded shocks or steering stabilizers, which keeps costs down—but also limits performance. If you notice the ride quality still feels rough or unresponsive after the install, that may be why. Fortunately, you can still upgrade shocks, springs, and steering components later to improve handling and comfort.
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Poor Ride Quality, Even With New Components: What if the kit did include new shocks and springs, but the ride still feels harsh? It’s possible the components just need some time to settle in. However, if things don’t smooth out after a few hundred miles, it could be a sign that the included components aren’t well matched to your vehicle or driving style. Swapping in better-quality shocks or springs might help dial things in.
Lift with Confidence—Shop the Right Parts at Parts Via
When you buy a lift kit or wheel and tire package from Parts Via, you’re not on your own. Our ship-to-store option not only saves you money on shipping, it also lets you send parts directly to a preferred installer. They can handle the install or offer expert guidance if you’re going the DIY route.
Plus, you can shop quality kits from trusted brands like Fabtech, Skyjacker, Superlift, Teraflex, ReadyLIFT, and more. Wherever you are in the process, we’re here to help your lift go smoothly, from order to install and everything in between.