How Much Does it Cost to Lift a Jeep Wrangler?

As the owner of a Jeep Wranglers you may need to lift your vehicle for repairs, or to spruce up the distinctive off-roader. There are multiple ways to lift a Jeep Wrangler, each coming with its own set of costs. Understanding your options for lifting a Jeep Wrangler will help you select a method that is ideal for you and works within your budget. Check out this article, How Much Does it Cost to Lift a Jeep Wrangler, to learn your options.

Quick Answer

There are several ways to lift a Jeep Wrangler, each coming with its own set of costs. Variables like how high you desire to go, which parts you plan to replace, and the suspension parts you want to change impact the overall cost.

• The average lift kit will cost $1000.
• If you chose to have an automotive shop lift your Jeep Wrangler there will be an additional service cost which can be upwards of $500.
• Often the goal of lifting is to fit bigger tires on your Jeep Wrangler which can create another added cost varying by quality of tire. Jeep Wrangler wheel replacement run an average cost of $588 to $600.
• There different types of lifts to consider including: body lifts, coil lifts, long arm lifts, and short arm lifts.

Continue reading to discover the ins and outs of lifting your Jeep Wrangler, including types, costs, benefits, negatives, and gas mileage impact.

How Much Does it Cost to Lift a Jeep Wrangler?

Understanding the costs associated with lifting your Jeep Wrangler will help you decide what type of lift you’re interested in, and if you want to have a professional install it or do it yourself.

Body Lift for Jeep Wrangler

A body lift is a mainly cosmetic enhancement, in which the body of your Jeep Wrangler is lifted up so upgrades can be made to change the look of your vehicle.

            Reasons / Benefits of Body Lift

There are multiple benefits to having a body lift done on your Jeep Wrangler. When done correctly, a body lift can add character to your vehicle. Here are some of the most popular reasons for having a body lift done:

Additional tire room: The most common reason people have a body lift done to their Jeep Wrangler is to make room for larger tires. Larger tires are cohesive with driving over tough terrain.

Larger engine: Body lifts on a Jeep Wrangler can be done in order to make room for a larger engine. A larger engine will burn more fuel allowing your Jeep Wrangler more power.

Increase ride height: Another common reason people do a body lift is to increase the overall height of their vehicle. This is done as both a cosmetic upgrade and for practical purpose, such as regular use over tough terrain.

Simplicity and Price: Many people consider a body lift, which will raise your vehicle 2-5 inches on average, instead of the more expensive suspension lift based on price. A body lift is a less expensive, simpler alteration, that still achieves a lifted look.

Quality: A body lift kit is made to not alter the quality of your Jeep Wrangler. There should not be a noticeable difference in your vehicle’s performance once a body lift kit is installed.

            Cost of DIY

Do it yourself “DIY” lift kits can cost as little as $75 for a low-quality product. High grade kits will run closer to $2000. The cost of installation can be as much as the kit itself, making DIY an attractive option for many Jeep Wrangler owners. Some of the best DIY lift kits for Jeep Wrangler include, MotoFab Lifts 3″ Full Kit ($100-$130), and Rough Country 2.5″ Lift Kit ($125-$140).

            Cost of Professional Install

To have your lift kit installed professionally you can use an automotive shop or licensed independent contractor. Most automotive shops charge by the hour. As a rule of thumb, you can expect a 50/50 split between materials and labor; meaning, the install on your body kit will equal the amount you paid for the kit. The average cost of professional install is $200 to $2000.

Suspension Lift for Jeep Wrangler

A suspension lift differs from a body lift because it raises the entire vehicle, as opposed to just the body of the vehicle. A suspension lift changes the ground clearance of your Jeep Wrangler.

            Reasons / Benefits of Suspension Lift

A suspension lift can be done for practical benefits, in addition to improving the overall look of your Jeep Wrangler. Some of the main benefits to a suspension lift include:

Improved visibility: The driver will sit up higher in the vehicle giving them an improved line of sight. Visibility during poor weather conditions is not impacted by a suspension lift.

Increased clearance: The whole Jeep Wrangler is suspended, on average 3″, giving the vehicle more room when driving over bumpy surfaces. The additional clearance also provides easier access to the underbody.

Gentler ride: The Jeep Wrangler with a suspension kit installed will have a smoother ride, because it will absorb more shock when handling bumps.

Handle tough terrain: A suspension lift kit is commonly installed for drivers that want to take their vehicle off roading.

Towing assistance: A Jeep Wrangler’s towing ability is improved by a suspension lift kit installation, because its power and shock absorption are enhanced.

Overall safety: The overall safety of a Jeep Wrangler is better with a suspension lift, because it increases the vehicles ability to handle rough terrain, improves visibility, and is more stable.

Larger tires: Similar to a body lift kit installation, the suspension lift allows for larger tires to be installed. This can improve the overall look of the vehicle, and help the vehicle handle dangerous ground.

            Cost of DIY

The cost of a do it yourself “DIY” suspension lift kit ranges from $100-$4000. A few of the most popular suspension lift kits for DIY installation are TrueTwo 2.5″ Suspension Lift Kit ($90-$110), Detroit Axle Suspension Kit ($150-$300), and Superior Suspension Kit ($170-$250). Different parts with varying costs may be necessary for a suspension lift and can add expense to the project. For example, adding suspension coil overs for shock absorption will also be necessary with larger scale suspension kit installation.

            Cost of Professional Install

To professionally install a suspension kit, you can use your local automotive shop. It may be necessary to get a couple of different quotes. A quote will typically be based on a predicted number of hours worked times hourly rate. The 50/50 rule applies to suspension kit installation, so labor and material are usually both half the total cost. The average cost of professional install is $250 to $4000.

Installing a body lift kit is often for aesthetic purposes, while a suspension kit has more tangible benefits. A suspension kit requires a more difficult installation process and comes with more costs.

What are the best Jeep lift kits

Jeep Wrangler lift kits vary in quality and price. Below you will find all you need to know about some of the best lift kits.

TeraFlex Suspension Lift Kit: This 2 1/2″ lift kit averages $580/kit. This kit is designed for the Jeep Wrangler owner who wants to lift with minimal modification. Features include 2 1/2″ front coil spacers, 9550VSS shock absorbers, 2″ rear coil spacers, and rear-sway bar links. This boost system will work for Jeep Wrangler models 2007-2018.

TrueTwo JW Coil Spacer Suspension Kit: This 2 1/2″ suspension lift kit averages $90/kit. This cost-effective option comes with polyurethane front coil spacers, and rear coil spacers. This kit does not come with a factory isolator, which must be purchased separately to reach the 2 1/2″ level lift. Without a factory isolator this lift kit is a 2″. This is not a full suspension lift kit.

Rubicon Express Economy Lift Kit: This 2″ lift kit with shock extension averages $400/kit. The design of this kit is perfect for newer Jeep Wranglers, and will increase shock absorption and height. This kit features front spring spacers, shock extension, rear spring spacers, brake line extension, and bump stop extension. The Rubicon Express Economy is suitable for Jeep Wrangler models 2018-2021.

ModFab Full Lift Kit: This 3″ lift kit ranks best overall, known for durability, it is a less expensive option, averaging $100-$130. This product comes with front shock extension, rear shock extension, high end steel with black finish, 100% bolt on install, and a lifetime warranty. This full lift kit works for Jeep Wranglers 2007-2018.

What are the pros and cons of lifting a Jeep

Lifting your Jeep Wrangler comes with both pros and cons. It is important to understand the benefits to lifting your vehicle, as well as the negatives, when considering alterations. A body lift’s primary benefit is superficial, while a suspension lift is functional.

Pros to Lifting:

– Enhanced off-roading capabilities are a major benefit to lifting your vehicle. Qualities like greater approach, departure, and breakover are all off-roading benefits. Certain lifts are not functional, and are only cosmetic so make sure if this is your end goal you research the type of lift kit you wish to install.

– Maximum wheel traction is another benefit to lifting. Increased wheel size allows for better grip when driving, and less wear and tear on your vehicle.

– A lift increases the weight that your vehicle can handle. This means you can tow heavier equipment, as well as carry more weight.

– Plowing potential is another benefit to lifting your Jeep Wrangler. When your Wrangler is suspended you can attach a plow on the front for snow. The additional clearance will also help you navigate winter roads.

Cons to Lifting:

– The cost associated with lifting your Jeep Wrangler is a negative. In addition to the cost of a lift kit there are hidden part costs that can come up during install.

– Installing a lift kit is not a beginner’s DIY project. The directions for suspension lift kits are difficult to understand and require materials a regular homeowner usually will not have on hand.

How do you measure the lift height on a Jeep

When you decide you want to lift your Jeep Wrangler it is important to understand how to measure the lift height. The lift height is the amount the Jeep is raised in addition to its usual height, or the length between the body of your Jeep Wrangler and axles. Lifting is common practice for this type of vehicle, because a Jeep Wrangler is often used for recreational purposes. Follow these steps to measure your Jeep Wrangler’s lift height.

Step 1: Locate your vehicles spring – Where the spring is located will depend on your Jeep Wrangler’s make and model. Your vehicle’s owner manual should have a diagram that can show you where to locate the spring.

Step 2: Measure your vehicles spring – Starting at the base of the spring, measure the entire length with a tape measurer.

Step 3: Locate the coil spring spacer – The coil spring spacer should be located near the spring. The make and model of your Jeep Wrangler will determine where the coil spring spacer is located. To help you identify it, the coil spring spacer is shaped like a puck.

Step 4: Measure the coil spring spacer – Take the diameter of the coil spring spacer using your measuring tape.

Step 5: Calculate your total lift – To find your Jeep Wrangler’s lift height add the length of the spring to the length of the coil spring spacers diameter. The total of these two measurements is considered your lift height.

To determine your Jeep Wrangler’s lift height, you will have to take a couple of simple measurements. Remember to have your tape measurer and owner’s manual handy.

Does lifting a Jeep affect gas mileage

Lifting a Jeep Wrangler will impact the gas mileage negatively, because you are adding weight to your vehicle. Knowing the facts can help you decide if lifting your Jeep is the right move for you.

• These are a few different aspects that impact gas mileage, such as larger tires, your vehicle is higher than manufacturer standard, and increased capacity.
• The average miles per gallon (MPG) for a Jeep Wrangler is up to 22 city and 29 highway.
• A lifted Jeep Wrangler may get as little as up to 18 city and 25 highway.
• Diverse lift kits will impact gas mileage differently.

Can you put bigger tires on a Jeep without a lift?

Jeep Wrangler is a popular vehicle for off-roading, so their tires are larger than average to begin with. Even so, you may want to increase your tire size on your Wrangler for functional or aesthetic purposes. Here is what you need to know about increasing your tire size on your Jeep Wrangler without lifting.

• To check if your tires are too large for your vehicle keep an eye on your fender. The tire may rub again the fender creating damage.
• Stock rims are a big limitation for Wrangler owners that want to go even bigger when it comes to their tires.
• The space behind the rim is often limiting too, not allowing for larger tire installation.

Wrap Up

When trying to decide whether or not to lift your Jeep Wrangler remember to weigh the pros and cons. A body lift is less expensive, but more of an aesthetic upgrade, while the suspension lift will give you a better ability over tough terrain. If you are enthusiastic, like me, about lifting your Jeep Wrangler please leave a comment and share your story below.