Installing a lift kit on your vehicle can significantly enhance its appearance, off-road capabilities, and overall performance. Whether you’re looking to conquer rugged trails or simply give your vehicle a more aggressive stance, a lift kit can be a great upgrade. However, lift kit installations are complex. Mistakes can cause costly repairs, reduced performance, or safety risks.
1. Not Choosing the Right Lift Kit for Your Vehicle
One of the most common mistakes during lift kit installations is failing to select the correct lift kit for your vehicle. Not all lift kits are created equal—some are designed for specific makes, models, and purposes. For example, a lift kit for light off-roading will differ from one for heavy-duty, rock-crawling adventures. It’s essential to consider both the technical specifications of your vehicle and your intended use.
The wrong lift kit can cause problems. It may misalign components, reduce handling, or void warranties. For example, some lift kits may not be compatible with your vehicle’s suspension system, leading to long-term damage. Ensure the lift kit you select is for your specific make and model. Also, consider tire size, load capacity, and the terrain you’ll tackle.
2. Skipping the Suspension Upgrades
A lift kit installation affects your vehicle’s suspension geometry, often requiring additional suspension upgrades to ensure optimal performance. Many people overlook the need for these upgrades, thinking that simply raising the vehicle’s body is enough. However, this can lead to poor ride quality and reduced handling. It may also cause premature wear on suspension parts.
When you lift your vehicle, the angles of your suspension system change, which affects components like shocks, control arms, and sway bars. Failing to upgrade or modify these parts can result in a harsh ride, excessive body roll, and uneven tire wear. Upgrading to high-performance shocks can help. It compensates for the altered suspension geometry and ensures a smoother, more controlled ride.
Some lift kits include parts that adjust the suspension geometry automatically. It’s best to check your vehicle’s needs with a professional to see if more modifications are needed.
3. Ignoring Wheel and Tire Considerations
When lifting a vehicle, many people make the mistake of not factoring in changes to the wheel and tire setup. Lift kit installations often allow for larger tires. This can boost off-road performance and the vehicle’s overall stance. Upgrading to larger tires can cause issues. If your wheels aren’t compatible, you may get tire rubbing, uneven wear, or lower fuel efficiency.
For example, using wheels with the wrong offset or width can cause clearance issues, especially when turning or flexing the suspension. It’s crucial to ensure that your new wheels and tires are the correct size and fit for the lift kit you’re installing. Larger tires also tend to increase rolling resistance, which may lead to a noticeable drop in fuel economy. Aesthetics and practicality must balance. Bigger is not always better if it harms your vehicle’s efficiency or safety.
4. Incorrect Alignment After Installation
A key part of a lift kit installation is to align the vehicle afterward. Lifting a vehicle changes its alignment geometry, including the caster, camber, and toe angles. Skipping a post-installation alignment can have serious consequences. It may cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and excessive stress on suspension parts.
A lift kit can cause misalignment. This can hurt steering stability, making it hard to keep the vehicle straight at high speeds. To avoid these problems, always schedule a professional alignment right after the lift kit is installed. Also, regularly check your alignment as part of your vehicle’s maintenance. This is important if you often drive off-road, where it can be knocked out of place.
5. Failing to Adjust the Driveshaft and Brake Lines
Lift kit installations can greatly change your vehicle’s geometry. This includes the driveshaft angle and the brake lines’ length. Unfortunately, many people neglect to adjust these critical components. This can cause serious performance and safety issues.
When you lift your vehicle, the driveshaft angle often increases, which can lead to vibrations and excess wear on the drivetrain. In some cases, extending the driveshaft or using a drop bracket can correct this issue. Similarly, brake lines may need to be extended to accommodate the additional height of the vehicle. Not doing so could cause brake failure. This is a risk during hard braking or off-road conditions where more travel is needed.
Ensure that your driveshaft and brake lines are properly adjusted to handle the lift. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional to avoid potential hazards.
6. Overlooking Legal and Safety Requirements
Another common mistake during lift kit installations is failing to check the legal and safety requirements in your area. Different states and regions have varying rules on vehicle modifications, including the maximum lift height allowed. Lifting your vehicle beyond these legal limits could result in fines or worse, the vehicle may be deemed unfit for the road.
Excessively high lifts can also compromise your vehicle’s stability and safety. For example, a lift that is too high can raise the vehicle’s center of gravity. This increases the risk of rollover, especially during sharp turns or emergencies. Always check local laws and guidelines before installing a lift kit, and ensure that the height is within safe and legal limits.
7. Trying to Install the Lift Kit Without Professional Help
Finally, one of the most dangerous mistakes you can make is attempting to install a lift kit without professional assistance. While DIY lift kit installations can save money, they come with significant risks if you lack the proper tools, knowledge, or experience. Lift kit installations involve precise torque settings, correct part placements, and a deep understanding of your vehicle’s suspension system. Even a small mistake can result in severe safety hazards, such as part failures or poor handling.
Common DIY mistakes include not torquing bolts to specs, misaligning parts, and improperly installing crucial parts like control arms or shocks. These errors can compromise the safety and longevity of your vehicle.
To avoid these risks, it’s highly recommended to seek professional help. A qualified technician will install the lift kit correctly. They will also do follow-up work, like alignments and suspension tweaks, to ensure peak performance.
Lift kits installations can transform your vehicle’s appearance and capabilities, but the process requires careful attention to detail. From choosing the right lift kit to proper alignment, there are many pitfalls to avoid. Ignoring these steps can cause costly repairs, poor performance, and safety risks.
To ensure your lift kit installation is done right, consider enlisting the help of professionals. At Cien’s Garage, our experts can help you. We’ll guide you from selecting the right lift kit for your vehicle to installing it with care.
Ready to elevate your ride? Contact Cien’s Garage today for expert advice and professional lift kit installations. Our team will help you choose the perfect lift kit for your vehicle. We’ll install it safely and make sure it meets all legal and safety requirements. Visit Cien’s Garage to schedule a consultation or service appointment, and get your vehicle ready for the road or the trail!
