For many pickup truck owners, adding a lift kit isn’t just about style — it’s about functionality, ground clearance, and making a personal statement. But when your truck is also your daily driver, lifting it introduces a unique set of challenges. Managing the balancing act of the weekend adventure goals with weekday realities, can be a challenge. Read on, find the right balance between form and function.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose the best lift kit for a daily driver pickup truck, with no fluff — just facts, comparisons, and clarity.
Why Lift a Daily Driver in the First Place?
Looks vs. Utility: Can You Have Both?
Pickup truck owners lift their vehicles for different reasons:
- Aesthetic appeal (stance, tire clearance, aggressive look)
- Improved ground clearance for snow, curbs, or light off-roading
- Fitment for larger tires
- Leveling out a factory rake
However, when your truck is your daily ride, the stakes are higher. A poorly chosen lift kit can lead to:
- Rough rides
- Poor fuel economy
- Handling issues
- Premature wear and tear on components
- Legal, registration and inspection problems
So the goal becomes: finding the right balance between form and function.
Types of Lift Kits: What's the Difference?
Suspension Lifts
Suspension lift kits raise your entire vehicle by modifying or replacing suspension components like shocks, springs, control arms, and brackets.
Pros:
- Best for ground clearance
- Better off-road articulation
- Full-body lift, including frame and undercarriage
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- More complex install
- Can alter ride quality and steering geometry, if not done properly
This option is best for: Occasional off-roaders who still commute daily and want a more rugged, capable truck.
Body Lifts
Body lift kits raise the body of your truck, usually 1 to 3 inches, from the frame using spacers.
Pros:
- More Affordable
- Doesn’t affect suspension geometry
- Easier to install
Cons:
- No improvement in ground clearance for chassis
- Visible frame gap (unless modified)
- Limited to smaller lifts (up to 3”)
This option is best for: Truck owners who want tire clearance or a taller look without changing the ride quality too much.
Leveling Kits
Leveling kits raise the front of your truck to eliminate the “rake” (where the rear sits higher than the front).
Pros:
- Most affordable lift option
- Maintains factory ride quality
- Helps fit slightly larger front tires
Cons:
- Not a full lift — only levels the front
- Can slightly increase front-end wear if improperly installed
Best for: Commuters who want a subtle lift and better stance without compromising drivability.
How Lift Height Affects Daily Drivability
1 to 2 Inches
- Minimal effect on ride quality
- Easier to align
- Little to no impact on MPG
- Ideal for leveling kits or mild body lifts
3 to 4 Inches
- Noticeable change in center of gravity
- Requires re-gearing or brake upgrades in some cases
- May affect fuel economy slightly
6 Inches or More
- Dramatic aesthetic upgrade
- Significant change in handling, MPG, and wear on components
- Harder to park, climb into, and insure
Best Range for Daily Use: 2 to 3 inches, especially when achieved with a quality leveling or body lift kit.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lift Kit
Ride Comfort
If you're commuting or driving long distances, stiff aftermarket shocks or poor alignment can cause fatigue and discomfort. Aim for kits that mimic your OEM's suspension geometry.
Tire Size Compatibility
This is important to know before starting the project. Lifting a truck just to discover your tires rub at full turn can be frustrating. Use this general reference:
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Lifting 2 " with a leveling kit: add up to +1” onto tire diameter
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Lifting 3” using the body lift method: add up to +2” onto tire diameter
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Lifting 4-6” with a suspension lift: add 3” or more (requires fender trimming), to the tire diameter
Installation Complexity
Body lifts, and installing a body lifting kit are considered DIY-friendly. Doing a full-on suspension lift requires more tools, time, and would benefit from an experienced mechanic to guide you - at the shop to install.
Fuel Economy
Lifting increases aerodynamic drag and rotating mass, especially with larger tires and therefore higher suspension lifts will decrease MPG. Leveling kits and modest body lifts have minimal impact.
Steering and Braking
Suspension lifts can affect caster, camber, and toe — altering how your truck handles, especially during emergency stops. Make sure any lift process you choose includes components to restore factory geometry.
Warranty and Insurance
Some dealers void warranties if suspension components are changed. Also, heavily lifted trucks may require modified insurance policies due to increased accident risk.
Recommended Lift Kit Setups for Daily Drivers (Non-Promotional)
While we’re not naming brands here, you can use these example setups based on goals:
✔️ Budget & Ride Quality Focused
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Type: 2” front leveling kit (spacer or coilover)
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Pros: Maintains ride, no alignment needed, lowest cost
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Use Case: City driver with occasional dirt or snow use
✔️ Aesthetic + Mild Performance
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Type: 2” body lift with shock upgrade
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Pros: Room for tires, minor cost, limited impact on drivability
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Use Case: Suburban commuter who wants aggressive stance
✔️ Mixed Use (On-road + Weekend Off-Road)
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Type: 3” suspension lift with upgraded shocks and control arms
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Pros: Improved performance and look, acceptable comfort
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Use Case: Daily commuter who camps or trails monthly
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Alignment
Even a 2” lift changes angles — always follow up with a professional alignment.
Ignoring Brake Line Extensions
Going beyond 3” in suspension travel? You’ll need longer brake lines or relocation brackets.
Over-Tire Sizing
Don’t just “eyeball” your new tires — test fit first. Oversize tires kill MPG and can rub.
Not Adjusting Headlights
Lift your truck, and your headlights now point higher. Adjust them to avoid blinding oncoming traffic.
Legal Considerations for Lifted Daily Drivers
Each state has rules about maximum bumper height, headlight height, and tire protrusion. For example:
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New York: Max bumper height 29” (vehicles under 4,500 lbs)
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California: Vehicle must be under 80” tall to be street legal
Before you lift, check your state’s DOT lift laws to avoid citations or inspection issues.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Lift Kit for You?
The best lift kit for a daily driver pickup truck isn’t always the biggest or most expensive — it’s the one that balances comfort, safety, aesthetics, and practicality.
If you’re commuting daily, start small:
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Consider a leveling kit for better stance and tire fitment
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Go with a body lift if you want clearance without suspension changes
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Choose a modest suspension lift with OEM-quality components if weekend off-roading is part of your lifestyle
The key is to lift smart, not high. Your back, wallet, and truck will thank you.
Check Out Some Lift Kits and Other Equipment You May Need to Get the Job Done