These affordable upgrades will improve your stance, comfort, and capability. From leveling kits to lighting, each of these modifications are available for under $2,000.
Leveling KitS
Leveling kits are primarily used to raise the front of factory-lifted vehicles, which are designed with a nose-down appearance for towing purposes. The most basic spacer kits can be found for under $100, not including potential installation fees.
In addition to balancing vehicle appearance, leveling kits create extra clearance for larger wheels and tires. Most half-ton trucks with a leveling kit allow for tires up to 33″, and wider wheels such as 20x9s. The broader stance and additional clearance created by leveling kits also reinforce off-road performance.
2024 GMC Canyon AT4X with a 2″ Leveling Kit. View additional photos and aftermarket upgrades!
Fender Flares and Bumpers
If you’re already running aftermarket wheels and tires, fender flares and bumpers provide both a visual and functional boost to your setup. Fender flares are available in either metal or plastic. They help protect the tires and prevent dirt from reaching the sides of the truck.
Only the metal flares can be painted, and are slightly more expensive than their plastic counterparts, which start around $250. Metal flares range between $500-$1000. Bumpers can be found for a similar price as metal fender flares, but installation will be more complex depending on the bumper’s lighting configuration.
Running Boards and Bed Covers
One of the easiest upgrades to install are standard running boards, which aid vehicle entry and exit. They can be bought and installed for under $1,000. Electronic running boards automatically deploy when doors open, but are significantly more expensive to purchase and install.
Bed covers are another simple upgrade that provides security and a slight boost in efficiency. They protect the contents of your truck bed from extreme weather conditions and potential theft.
Another benefit of bed covers is the increased wind resistance, which can slightly improve the truck’s fuel economy. Check out THIS GUIDE for an in-depth look at the different types of bed covers and the benefits and drawbacks of each.
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Lighting Upgrades
There are a variety of lighting upgrades available for under $2,000. However, installation is often long and expensive due to the complexities of the wiring. Different lighting options can illuminate your suspension, undercarriage, or provide additional visibility on dark roads.
Often used during off-roading, pod lights increase visibility around the vehicle and are often mounted near the mirrors or on the bumper. Light bars are another simple upgrade that reinforces forward lighting.
Replacing the factory headlights and taillights are a more major lighting upgrade – depending on parts, expenses can easily exceed $2,000. Smoking or painting the lights is a cheaper alternative, matching the lighting with the truck’s paint while preserving the red illumination on the taillights.
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Additional Modifications
Bed mats and liners are practical mods that won’t cost you as much as a bed cover. They protect the bed from scratches and dents and reduce the wear and tear caused by hauling heavy equipment. Bed liners are permanent, while bed mats are removable and require no professional installation.
Headache racks and bed boxes are reinforcements to the rear bed that also increase storage capacity. They can be installed at home and also provide some of the security benefits of a bed cover. Headache racks are placed in front of the rear window to protect the cab while hauling cargo. Bed boxes are inside the bed and range from simple lockboxes to larger drawer systems.
Trailer hitches from brands such as Gen-Y support your truck’s towing capability and comfort. known for their reliability in construction, Gen-Y hitches range in price from around $250-$1500, and installation is quite simple. Hitches can be easily placed into the truck’s receiver and can be adjusted to the correct configuration.
