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It’s the first question almost every F-150 owner asks before modifying the truck: do I need a leveling kit or a lift kit? They’re often confused, but they do different jobs and cost very different amounts. Here’s how to pick.
The Short Answer
Get a leveling kit if you want the truck to sit flat, look better, and fit tires up to about 33 inches, for the least money and hassle. Get a lift kit if you want 35-inch tires, a tall stance, or real off-road clearance, and you’re ready to spend more.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Leveling Kit | Lift Kit | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Raises the front to match the rear | Raises the whole truck |
| Typical height | About 2–2.5 in. (front) | About 3.5–6+ in. |
| Typical tire size | Up to ~33 in. | ~35 in. and up |
| Ride quality | Close to stock (spacers) or better (coilovers) | Depends heavily on the shocks included |
| Install | DIY-friendly, a few hours | Usually a shop job, a full day or more |
| Cost | $ | $$–$$$ |
| Effect on towing/payload | Minimal | Can change handling; check the kit’s specs |
When a Leveling Kit Is the Right Call
- You mainly want the truck to look right without the nose-down rake.
- You want slightly bigger tires, around 33 inches.
- You tow or haul regularly and want to keep the truck close to factory.
- You want to do the install yourself.
See our picks: Best Leveling Kits for the 2021+ F-150. Popular options include the ReadyLIFT front leveling kit and the Rough Country 2″ leveling kit.
When You Need a Lift Kit
- You want 35-inch tires.
- You go off-road and need ground clearance and suspension travel.
- You want a tall, aggressive stance.
Popular F-150 lift kits include the Rough Country 6″ lift for budget builds and BDS 4″ and 6″ lifts for better ride quality. Make sure any kit you choose is listed for your exact model year and drivetrain.
What About Body Lifts?
A body lift uses spacers between the frame and the body. It makes room for bigger tires without changing suspension geometry, but it doesn’t add ground clearance under the frame, and it can leave a visible gap. Most F-150 owners are better served by a level or a suspension lift.
Costs People Forget
- Alignment after any level or lift.
- Bigger tires and wheels, which often cost more than the kit itself.
- Speedometer recalibration after a tire size change.
- Labor if a shop installs a full lift.
FAQ
Can I add a lift later if I start with a level?
Yes, but most of the leveling kit’s parts won’t be reused. If you know you’ll want 35s eventually, it’s cheaper to go straight to a lift.
Which is better for towing?
A leveling kit changes the truck less, so it’s usually the better choice for heavy towing. Big lifts raise the center of gravity and can affect stability with a trailer.
Shopping for a Chevy? See Best Lift Kits for the 2019+ Silverado 1500.