Ensure your suspension is properly tuned after adding a lift kit.
If you’ve recently installed a lift kit on your truck, SUV, or off-road rig, you might be wondering if you need to replace or upgrade your shocks. The short answer is—yes, in most cases. Lifting your vehicle changes the geometry of your suspension, which can impact your shock absorbers’ performance.
Here’s why upgrading your shocks is crucial after a lift kit installation.
Why Lift Kits Affect Shocks
When you lift your vehicle, you change its ride height and potentially its suspension travel. Your stock shocks may no longer be able to provide the proper damping force at the new ride height, which can lead to reduced ride quality, excessive bouncing, or even suspension damage over time.
Signs You Need New Shocks After a Lift Kit
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Excessive Bounce or Bounciness
If your vehicle bounces excessively after hitting bumps or dips, it’s a sign your shocks are unable to control the movement properly. Stock shocks are generally designed for stock ride height, and they may not be long enough to handle the extra suspension travel after a lift. -
Uneven Tire Wear
Improper shock damping can lead to uneven weight distribution, which may cause your tires to wear unevenly. If you notice more wear on one side or the center of the tire, it could be a sign that your shocks are struggling to keep the suspension stable. -
Rough or Bouncy Ride
A lifted vehicle with stock shocks can feel especially rough on uneven roads. You might notice more body roll or that your truck feels too "springy" when driving. New shocks designed for lifted vehicles provide better control and a smoother ride. -
Reduced Control When Towing or Hauling
If you frequently tow or haul with your lifted truck, stock shocks may not provide enough support. Upgraded shocks will help keep your vehicle stable under load, reducing rear-end sag and improving overall handling.
Which Shocks Should You Get After Installing a Lift Kit?
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For a 2” to 3” Lift: Shocks like the Bilstein 5100 or Fox 2.0 can handle moderate lifts and provide better performance than stock shocks.
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For a 4” or Higher Lift: You’ll need longer shocks, such as the Bilstein 5160 or King Shocks, which are designed for vehicles with substantial lifts and heavy-duty use.
Pro Tip: If you’ve installed a lift kit that alters your suspension geometry (such as a long-arm kit), you may also need to upgrade other components like sway bars, control arms, and steering stabilizers to maintain proper handling.
Final Thoughts
Installing a lift kit on your vehicle is an exciting upgrade, but it’s important to make sure your shocks are up to the task. Replacing your shocks with ones specifically designed for your lift kit will improve ride quality, handling, and safety. It’s an essential step in making sure your suspension is as capable as your new ride height.