From its appearance to performance, the Jeep Wrangler is one of the most iconic SUVs. But while it is great out of the production plant, several upgrades can help unleash more power and benefits. Among others, one thing that you will need is the best lift kit for Jeep Wrangler.
With the right lift kit, your Jeep Wrangler will be more capable of conquering off-the-beaten paths. Even rugged terrains are easy to traverse while making sure of your comfort. Best of all, it makes your Jeep more appealing.
If you are clueless about the Jeep Wrangler lift kit to buy, read on and learn from the insights we’ll be sharing.
Our Top Choice:
The Motofab 3-inch Front and Rear Lift Kit is my favorite. It adds three inches of height at both the front and rear of a Jeep Wrangler. It also includes shock extenders, which can help improve off-road handling and comfort. Not to mention, it has a limited lifetime warranty for your peace of mind.
Topping off our list is an incredible kit that will lift the front and rear of your Jeep Wrangler by up to three feet. When installed, it will give your SUV a tire clearance of up to 35 inches. This is the perfect option if you like to install larger tires.
Looking at its features, one of the most commendable is how it is inclusive of everything you will need, including hardware. The package has two front coil spacers, two rear coil spacers, two front shock extenders, two rear shock extenders, and front and rear brake line brackets.
Even after years of use, this lift kit offers its full benefits. It is made using high-grade steel, which has been through CNC milling to guarantee durability. Plus, it comes with a black powder coating, which will protect against external elements that speed up wear.
It is also worth noting that it has a 100% bolt-on installation. Despite this, however, some people note that the instructions that come with the kit are vague, which can make the installation difficult.
Best of all, you can have peace of mind when you purchase this lift kit knowing that it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Key Features and Specs:
3-inch front spacer
3-inch rear spacer
100% bolt-on construction
35-inch tire clearance
Lifetime warranty
Pros:
Solid steel construction for longevity
Finished with black powder coating for protection against wear
Has great clearance
Cons:
Vague instructions make the installation tricky
Verdict
From the durable steel construction with high-quality powder coating to the lifetime warranty the manufacturer offers, this Jeep Wrangler lift kit wins this review.
Lift your Jeep higher and give it a tire clearance of up to 35 inches. This complete package includes front and rear coil spring spacers, front and rear shock relocation bracketss, front and rear brake line retention brackets, track bar relocation bracket, extended sway bar links, and necessary hardware.
The spring retention design is one more thing that we love in this lift kit. This design makes sure that the coils remain in their position, even in case of extreme articulation. Even in challenging conditions, the lift kit can deliver its peak performance.
Another commendable part of this lift kit is the rear track bar. It ensures the proper alignment of the rear axle, which is also crucial for achieving optimal performance of the lift kit.
If you have time and effort to spare, its assembly can be an easy DIY task. It has a quick bolt-on installation, which you can accomplish even without paying a mechanic to do the job.
Key Features and Specs:
2.5-inch front spacer
2-inch rear spacer
Up to 35-inch tire clearance
Limited lifetime replacement warranty
Pros:
Excellent spring retention design
User-friendly bolt-on installation
Keeps your rear axle perfectly centered
Cons:
Can be squeaky, especially on rough roads
Verdict
Even as a beginner, you can easily install this Jeep Wrangler lift kit, which can promote a more comfortable ride even in extreme conditions.
If you are on a budget, this is one of the top options to consider. It is economical, but it does not compromise overall quality and performance.
Looking at its features, one thing that we like is the polyurethane construction of the coil spring spacers. They are flexible while being long-lasting. It is unlike others that can easily distort due to extreme pressure, especially if you often drive on challenging terrains.
However, if you plan to install them yourself, make sure to spare up to five hours. It is quite an intimidating task, especially for inexperienced handymen. The included manual is quite vague. Luckily, you can watch many online videos to help you complete the assembly.
Key Features and Specs:
Spacer Height: 2.5 inches
Fits 33-inch tires, up to 35 inches with bum stop extensions
For 2017 to 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
Pros:
Affordable without compromising quality
Made of high-quality materials
Easy to return Jeep to stock height
Cons:
DIY installation can take up to five hours
Verdict
While it is economical, this Jeep lift kit is exceptional because of the long-lasting polyurethane spacers that will lift your ride by up to 2.5 inches.
Elevate your Jeep literally at a height of up to 2.5 inches with this incredible lift kit. It is designed to accommodate large tires of up to 35 inches.
The kit has everything that you will need to increase your Jeep’s height. One of the highlights is the 9550 VSS shock absorber. The latter helps in making rough rides more manageable to keep you more comfortable. Not to mention, it minimizes the strain on the different components of your Jeep.
With the shock absorber that comes with this kit, you can reduce body roll. This means that the Wrangler will be more stable, regardless of the road conditions. This is one feature that can ensure your safety.
Another thing that we love about this product is the high-rate springs. Compared to factory springs, you can expect a higher spring rate. Meaning, you will not only be lifting your Jeep but will also be improving overall ride quality.
In terms of installation, you will need some drilling and cutting. If your wheels have 4.5-inch backspacing, you will need to purchase other parts to assemble the lift kit.
Key Features and Specs:
Accommodates tires up to 35 inches
Maximum Lift Height; 2.5 inches
Main Material: Alloy steel
Pros:
Has shock absorbers for a more comfortable ride
High-rate spring improves suspension
Effectively minimizes body roll
Cons:
Prone to rusting over time
Verdict
From its effective shock absorption to minimizing body roll, this Jeep Wrangler lift kit is another product that deserves your attention.
With a maximum lift height of four inches, this is another kit worth looking at. It is made by a company that has been operating since 1974, so you can be confident that the quality is second to none.
The manufacturer claims that it comes with everything you will need in one box. True enough, all the necessary components are provided. This parallel lift kit has front and rear lower control arms, rear track bar bracket, drop pitman arm, transfer case lowering kit, front and rear coil springs, and Hydro 7000 shock.
If you do not want to pay a mechanic to install a lift kit, no worries. It is easy to assemble yourself. It might take a couple of hours. However, with the complete instructions and parts, the installation is a breeze for most people.
Key Features and Specs:
Lift Height: 4 inches
Fitment: Direct fit
Primary Lift Component: Coil spring
Front and Rear Shock Type: Hydraulic twin tube
Pros:
Comes with everything you will need
Easy to install
Prevents rubbing of components
Cons:
Poor packaging makes items prone to damage in transit
Verdict
Despite its simplicity, this kit is effective in lifting your Jeep Wrangler for a more comfortable ride even when you are on rough roads.
Of all the products on this list, this lift kit is the simplest. It can improve ground clearance and make your Wrangler compatible with larger tires without the need for a complicated setup.
In terms of construction, the spacers in this kit are made of polyurethane. The latter is a good material that is designed to last. Even with frequent exposure to road salt, oil, chemicals, and other external elements, the spacers do not wear easily. This is unlike others that can quickly become unresponsive.
More so, this product also stands out because there is no metal-to-metal contact, unlike what you can experience in low-quality spacers. As a result, it puts minimal strain on the components underneath your Wrangler.
Aside from the choice of materials, it is long-lasting because it is manufactured in the U.S. This is unlike its cheaper competitors that are made in China.
While it is great overall, one of the shortcomings is that it includes only front and rear spacers. It does not have more advanced components that can lift your Jeep higher and improve the suspension.
Key Features and Specs:
Main material: Polyurethane
Maximum Lift Height: 0.75 inch
Includes two front and two rear spacers
Pros:
Made using long-lasting materials
Simple design
Manufactured in the U.S.
Cons:
Includes only front and rear spacers
Verdict
Made of high-quality polyurethane, this set of four spacers is easy to install, durable, and prevents metal-to-metal contact.
If you have a Jeep Wrangler from 2007 to 2018, this is one of the options for the best lift kit worth considering. Installed on the front and rear, it will add up to three inches of height to your SUV. Meanwhile, like most of those on this list, it can accommodate tires up to 35 inches.
Even after years of driving your Jeep in difficult conditions, the quality of this lift kit remains impressive. Thanks to the high-quality aluminum construction, it is lightweight without compromising longevity. It also uses carbon steel, which can resist stress and pressure, so it won’t easily deform.
To make the construction even more impressive, the parts are finished with a black powder coating. The latter protects the main part from rust and corrosion, among other external damages that can speed up wear.
The installation is a breeze, even for those who are inexperienced. Along with the kit, you will receive detailed instructions with color graphics. Based on the experience of most users, the assembly takes two to three hours.
Key Features and Specs:
Front and Rear Lift: 3 inches
Main Material: Carbon steel and aluminum
Warranty: One year
Pros:
Comes with easy to follow instructions with color graphics
Has a good weld that helps make it last long
The metal spacers won’t easily collapse
Cons:
Space bars may not properly clear the track bar
Verdict
With its high-quality construction and quick installation, this is a great lift kit that can enhance the look and performance of your Jeep Wrangler.
Improve your off-road experience in a Jeep Wrangler with this lift kit. Upon its installation, you will experience better tire-to-ground contact and truck articulation. The extra clearance is also worth noting, which will make it easier and more comfortable to drive even on rough terrains.
Many of you might be easily discouraged by the price of this lift kit, but that should not be the case. It is expensive for a reason. One of the reasons for the latter is the long front control arm, which is responsible for optimizing suspension tuning. This makes your Jeep Wrangler more reliable in different environments.
It is also worth noting that its shock absorber comes with an aluminum body. More than being lightweight, it promotes cooler operation to prevent overheating. In turn, it also minimizes strain over time.
Ease of installation is one more reason to choose this product over others. It does not require driveshaft and brake line replacements, so the assembly is a breeze, even for inexperienced users.
As a bonus, your purchase comes with a reusable wood crate. You can use it as an organizer in your garage or workshop once you are done installing the lift kit.
Key Features and Specs:
Maximum Lift Height: 2 inches
Compatibility: 4-door Jeep Wrangler with 3.6-liter engines
Installation Time: Two to three hours
Pros:
Comes with a reusable wood crate
Does not bow on springs
Has aluminum shock absorbers that do not overheat
Cons:
Expensive
Verdict
It is costly, but this lift kit provides the best bang for the buck because of its incredible construction and commendable performance.
Overall Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Benefits of Using a Lift Kit for Jeep Wrangler
Need more compelling reasons to invest in a lift kit for your Jeep Wrangler? Below are some of the benefits that might convince you that it is a worthy investment.
Improve Appearance
Even without any modification, a Jeep Wrangler already looks good. If you want to make it look even better, it is hard to go wrong with a lift kit. It is a great way to customize its appearance and enhance its appeal, making it a sure head-turner when you are on the road.
Increase Tire Clearance
Those who are planning to install larger tires compared to the stock part in a Jeep Wrangler should consider installing a lift kit. Most of the products in this review will let your Wrangler accommodate tires as big as 35 inches. With a higher clearance, it is easier to tackle obstacles on the road.
Enhance Ride Quality
While Jeep Wranglers are designed to be comfortable, you can make the ride quality better with the help of lift kits. With the right lift kit, you will be adding spacers, sway bars, coils, and steering stabilizers, among other parts. The result is that these adjustments will improve shock absorption to make your rides more comfortable.
Improve Off-Road Performance
A lift kit is effective in improving your Jeep Wrangler’s off-roading capabilities. It will have better handling even in the most difficult terrains. From rocky to muddy roads, you can be more confident when driving in challenging environments without compromising safety and comfort.
Increase Market Value
If you intend to sell your Jeep Wrangler, a lift kit is one of the best ways for your SUV to command a higher selling value. More than looking cooler, it can also improve off-road handling and overall performance, which can convince buyers to pay a premium.
Types of Lift Kit for Jeep
As you try to narrow down the possibilities, one of the most important considerations is the type of lift kit to pick, which include the following:
Leveling Kit
As the name implies, it will level your Jeep Wrangler, lifting it at approximately one to two inches. Instead of having the front lower than the rear, it makes sure that the Jeep Wrangler is in a balanced position. It is affordable and easy to install. However, one problem is that there is minimal improvement in tire clearance and it does not improve off-road performance.
Body Lift Kit
It is similar to a leveling kit, especially since they both lift a Jeep Wrangler by one to two inches. Body lift kits have rubber spacers, which separate the frame from the body. It is a great option if your main goal is to improve the aesthetic of your vehicle, but take note that it does not have a significant impact on improving off-road capabilities.
Suspension Lift Kit
Using this type of lift kit can either space or replace the factory suspension. Also called an arm lift, it can add a height of up to six inches. It can add ground clearance, improve suspension travel, and increase articulation. However, it is more expensive than a lift kit and is also complicated to install.
Choosing the Best Jeep Wrangler Lift Kit
The options for lift kits abound, but that does not mean that you can just choose any product. For the best performance, below are some of the most important considerations.
Compatibility
One of the first things to look at is the compatibility of the kit with your vehicle. While it is advertised as compatible with Jeep Wrangler, it does not mean that it can offer a one-size-fits-all solution. Look at the specific years or models that the model can support.
Lift Height
Decide how much height you would like to add to your Jeep Wrangler to help you make a well-informed decision. This will depend on the tire clearance. For instance, if you plan to install 33-inch tires, then you are good with a one to two-inch lift. Meanwhile, if you want to upgrade to 35-inch tires, you will need at least 2.5 inches of lift height.
Inclusions
While it is called a lift kit, it does not mean that all of them have the parts that you need. At the most basic, it will only include front and rear spacers. For the best outcomes, look for more parts that can effectively lift your Jeep while ensuring comfort. Other components that are often included are brake lines, sway bars, control arms, and track bars.
Ease of Installation
If you are into DIY tasks, then you should consider installing the lift kit by yourself instead of paying someone to do it for you. Read reviews and learn from the experiences of other people about the assembly of the lift kit. It should come with comprehensive instructions and everything that you will need, including mounting hardware.
Durability
Lift kits are exposed to external elements like mud, dust, and rocks. So, make sure to pick one using high-quality components to avoid premature wear. It is also good if it has a powder coating, which will protect against rust and corrosion.
If I have to pick only one winner, it would be Motofab 3-inch Front and Rear Lift Kit. The limited lifetime warranty alone is already a compelling reason to choose it over others. It has 100% bolt-on installation, adds up to three inches of height, fits up to 35-inch tires, and comes with almost anything you will need, including installation hardware.
Jerry Ford started his career as a freelance writer for Australian Associated Press. A wide variety of outdoor interests (off-road driving among them) brought him to car magazines. He has a distinguished career as a print and broadcast reporter and editor with over 25 years of experience writing about the car industry, best practices and new technologies.
