What Does a Leveling Kit Do?

A leveling kit is a type of suspension lift kit that raises the front of the vehicle to match the height of the back. Many stock trucks are designed so that the front is lower than the back, creating a wedge look. This makes the truck more fuel-efficient, and it takes into account how heavy the truck will be when it’s carrying a load. Having a lower front also makes it so that there’s space for slightly bigger tires without them rubbing against the fender wells. However, in many cases a leveling kit can be a good addition to your vehicle, adding to aesthetics and performance. A leveling kit can help compensate for things like heavy custom bumpers or a winch, and it can help with a vehicle’s stance when towing something.

What Types of Vehicles Typically Use a Leveling Kit?

Most people who use a leveling kit are looking to raise the front of their truck or SUV. This is because the vast majority of these vehicles come from the factory with a higher rear end. There are also some rarer cases where people will use a leveling kit to raise the back of their vehicle.

Benefits of a Leveling Kit

Improved Ride Quality

If you're looking for a way to improve the way your truck looks and feels, a leveling kit is a great option to consider. It's an easy way to make a big difference, and it can really transform your driving experience.

Even Tire Wear

One of the main benefits of using a leveling kit is that it can help you achieve even tire wear. This is a big deal because when your tires are wearing unevenly, they will have a shorter life span, which will lead to other expensive problems down the road. By using a leveling kit to align your front and rear, you can avoid uneven wear and keep your tires in great condition for longer.

Reduced Vibration

One of the main benefits of using a leveling kit is that it can help you achieve reduced vibration. This is a big deal because when your truck is vibrating excessively, it’s not only uncomfortable but also dangerous. By using a leveling kit, you can reduce the amount of vibration that you feel while driving, making for a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Improved Stability

A truck without a leveling kit can be unstable and difficult to control. This can be a major safety hazard, especially if you're driving at high speeds or in difficult conditions.

Drawbacks of a Leveling Kit

Can Void Vehicle's Warranty

One of the potential drawbacks of using a leveling kit is that it can void your vehicle's warranty. This is because most warranties are voided if you make any modifications to a vehicle — and a leveling kit definitely counts as a modification. So if you're worried about voiding your warranty, you may want to check with the company who issued the warranty before installing a leveling kit.

Can Cause Suspension to Wear Out Faster

Another potential drawback of using a leveling kit is that it can cause your suspension to wear out faster. This is because the higher ride height puts more stress on the suspension components. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear.

Cost of a Leveling Kit

A leveling kit itself can cost $200 – $500 [1], and if you are going to have it professionally installed, that can cost $300 – $500. Consider using Acima Leasing's lease-to-own solution* if you’re trying to figure out how to get a leveling kit within your budget. We work with auto shops all over the country to help get you the products you need without having to pay for everything upfront. Acima Leasing offers flexible lease purchase agreements* that help you get what you want on terms that work for you.

Installing a Leveling Kit

If you're interested in installing a leveling kit on your truck, there are a few things you need to know. First of all, it's important to choose the right kit for your vehicle. There are a variety of kits available, so you need to make sure you get one that's compatible with your vehicle. If you're not sure which leveling kit to get, it's a good idea to ask an expert. A consultation will ensure that the installation process goes smoothly.

Once you've chosen the right kit, the installation process is pretty straightforward. Most kits come with easy-to-follow instructions, and most can be installed in just a few hours. Be sure to read the instructions and follow them closely. It's important to be careful and take your time during the installation process so that you don't damage your vehicle or injure yourself.

Once the kit is installed, it's important to take some time to adjust to the new flat surface. Your vehicle might have some handling, stability or vibration issues at first, so it's important to be patient and let the leveling kit do what it was meant to.

Leveling vs. Lifting

Leveling and lifting are two different things, and it's important to know the difference. A leveling kit simply raises the front of your truck to match the stock height of the rear, while a lift kit actually raises the entire truck.

Common Questions About Leveling Kits

Are leveling kits worth it?

Leveling kits are a great way to improve the appearance and handling of your vehicle. By installing a leveling kit, you can align the height of your front and back wheels, which will make your truck look more aesthetically pleasing and easier to control. Additionally, a leveling kit can help reduce vibration and improve stability while driving. If you're looking for a way to improve your vehicle's performance, a leveling kit is a great option.

Does a leveling kit affect ride quality?

A leveling kit can improve your vehicle's ride quality by creating a flat surface on the vehicle. Without a leveling kit your truck can be unstable and difficult to control. A leveling kit can help you fix that by creating a level surface on your truck, resulting in a smoother and more enjoyable ride.

What are the cons of a leveling kit?

There are a few drawbacks to consider when installing a leveling kit on your truck. For example, a leveling kit can sometimes cause handling, stability or vibration issues. However, most of these issues can be resolved with a bit of patience and adjustment. Additionally, a leveling kit can be expensive, though it may be worth the investment for the improved appearance and performance of your vehicle.

Will a leveling kit void my warranty?

It depends on the fine print of the warranty. Some warranties may not cover modifications made to the vehicle, such as the installation of a leveling kit. However, other warranties may cover this type of modification. It’s a good practice to confirm the details of any policy before modifying your vehicle.