How Much Truck Lift Do You Actually Need? A Complete Guide

If you’re considering lifting your truck, you might be wondering: how much lift do you really need? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to consider when choosing a lift kit and provide expert recommendations to help you make the right decision.

1. Determining Your Wheel and Tire Size

The first step in deciding how much lift you need is determining the wheel and tire package you want. The size of your wheels and tires directly impacts the type and height of suspension lift required.

If you’re sticking with a 20×9 setup, you might not need much lift at all.
Moving up to 33-inch tires? A small leveling kit or mild lift will suffice.
Want to run 35s or 37s? You’ll likely need a substantial lift to accommodate them properly.
Vehicle type matters – not every truck can handle massive tires without modifications. For example, fitting 35-inch tires on a Honda Ridgeline requires extensive trimming, whereas a full-size Chevy truck might just need a 6-inch lift.

2. Budget Considerations

Your budget plays a crucial role in determining how much lift you can afford.

Leveling kits are the most affordable option, ranging from $99 to $1,000.
Full suspension lifts start at $1,000 and can go up to $6,000 for premium builds.
Your budget dictates what is realistic. If you have $5,000, you’ll be looking at a leveling kit with 33-inch tires and 20inch wheels. If you have $8,500 or more, you can consider bigger suspensions 4-6 inch lift kits with 22 inch wheels and 35 inch tires.

3. Practicality: Where and How Do You Drive?

A truck’s lift height should be practical for your lifestyle. Consider these factors:

Garage and Parking Clearance – Will your lifted truck fit in your home garage or a city parking structure?
Passenger Comfort – If you frequently drive with family or small children, a 3-4 inch lift may be more practical than an extreme 6-10 inch setup.
Daily Driving – If you drive in urban areas with narrow streets, oversized wheels and a wide stance may make maneuvering difficult.
Off-Roading Needs – If you need enhanced ground clearance for off-road adventures, a higher lift makes sense.

4. Ride Quality and Maintenance

Lifting your truck affects ride quality and maintenance. Here’s what you need to know:

Bigger lifts change the ride – A leveling kit minimally impacts ride quality, while a 6-inch lift can create a stiffer ride.
Tires impact comfort – Mud tires are rougher and louder, while all-terrain or hybrid tires offer a smoother ride.
Lifting stresses factory components – Lifted trucks experience more wear on suspension and steering parts. Regular shock replacements (every 5-6 years) and routine cleaning help maintain performance.
Off-Road Shop Expertise – If you have a lifted truck, take it to an off-road shop for service. They know what to look for and can help prevent costly repairs.

5. Our Recommendations for Lift Heights

3.5-inch Lift with 20×10 Wheels & 33s: Ideal for families or daily drivers who want an upgraded look without sacrificing practicality.
6-inch Lift with 22 in wheels and 35s: A statement-making build that provides a bold look and enhanced off-road performance.
Leveling Kit with Large Tires: A simple and affordable way to enhance the truck’s stance while maintaining a comfortable ride.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, choosing the right lift comes down to your needs, budget, and how you use your truck. Whether you’re looking for a practical daily driver or a show-stopping build, there’s a lift option for you.

For expert advice and customized truck builds, contact Krietz Customs to explore our gallery of lifted trucks and available parts.

Let us help you find the perfect lift for your truck!