Best Lift Kits For Jeep Wrangler TJ – 2022 Picks

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Buying a lift kit for your Jeep is an excellent idea if you’re planning on experiencing the vast outdoors and wilderness off-road. 

Using these is one of the best defenses available to protecting the underside of your vehicle. 

The following options are the best lift kits for a Jeep Wrangler, whether its price, quality, or the best choice to purchase overall.

Comparison of the Best Lift Kits for Jeep Wrangler

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What Makes a Lift Kit Great for Jeep Wrangler?

There are many benefits to using a lift kit on your Jeep. While style is a reason many choose to install a lift kit, it also enhances your off-roading abilities.

Bigger Wheels

The larger your tire, the better your ride will be when taking your Jeep off the road. A lift kit heightens the distance between the vehicle’s frame and body. This increased distance is ideal for replacing your standard set of tires with larger ones.

Larger wheels are an excellent reason to use a lift kit on your Jeep if you want a less bumpy car ride when you go off-road. Additionally, larger tires are an excellent fashion staple for any off-road vehicle.

Larger Clearance

Lift kits raise your vehicle higher, giving you the best visibility possible when driving on the highway or over rocky terrain. Additionally, by having your Jeep’s underside further from the ground, you’re less likely to have rocks or debris hit it. It also lessens the chances of bottoming out over bumps or inclines.

Larger tires deform around rocks and bumps, lessening the bounce you’d typically experience.

Style

Lift kits don’t have to get used solely for the off-road benefits. One of the best uses for the add-on is customizing your vehicle to look the way you want. You can add larger wheels that stand out more, level your front and rear, or simply gain extra clearance beneath the Jeep.

What Size Lift Kit for Jeep Wrangler?

There are various sizes for lift kits that range from one inch to six inches. The larger the tire size you intend to use, the higher your vehicle needs to be from the ground. On average, the larger sizes used for off-roading begin at 3.5 inches of added height. 

If you’re looking to install a specific size of tires, it’s best to consult a mechanic, or someone experienced. You’ll need at least a 2.5-inch height to replace your standard wheels with 35-inch ones. Additionally, moving to a more extensive lift kit will change your perspective when driving, and it takes some time to learn the changes. 

Photo credit: UltimateRides.com

Is a Lift Kit Compatible With All Jeeps?

Depending on your Jeep, you’ll need a specific lift kit for each model. The items we’re reviewing are compatible with a Jeep Wrangler but may not function for a Grand Cherokee or other vehicle. This limitation is understandable as there’s a difference in parts and measurements between the various models.

Additionally, there are multiple types of lifts available for a Jeep. Body lifts are the most inexpensive and can add up to 3 inches of height. Coil springs are the ideal off-road choice, while short arms adjust your clearance and center of gravity.

Unfortunately, not all types of lift kits are ideal for every Jeep.

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Review of the Best Lift Kits for Jeep Wrangler:

Here are the best options available on today’s market:

Best Overall

Daystar KJ09100BK

Daystar, Jeep TJ Wrangler 1.75' Front or Rear Lift Kit, fits TJ, Cherokee XJ and ZJ 1984 to 2006 2/4WD, all transmissions, KJ09100BK, Made in America,Black

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What Recent Buyers Report

Many recent buyers are thrilled with this item and claim that it is possible to install it yourself with enough sweat and patience. Other customers have also stated that the lift is subtle but an improvement. Many agree that the added clearance and larger tires installed provide a far smoother ride. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This product is the best lift kit for your Jeep Wrangler, adding a subtle one and a half inches of height to your vehicle. The part works perfectly and raises your car to have a more leveled front that is far more pleasing to the eye. It also helps that the kit includes front sway bar links.

It’s an excellent choice for almost any Jeep Wrangler, with the part fitting a wide range of models. The item comes with all the features you need to start installing and a detailed set of instructions. This inclusion makes the lift kit easy to install within a few hours.

Bottom Line

The TeraFlex 1155200 is one of the best lift kits for a Jeep Wrangler due to its ease of installation. The part fits a wide selection of vehicles starting with the 2007 models. While the item only adds 1.5″ to the height, it allows you to use 33″ tires.

Pros

Includes front sway bar links

All the needed hardware is included

Corrects the node-down angle of your Jeep

Adds 1″ to the rear and 2″ to the front of your vehicle

It fits 2007 and later models of the Wrangler and Unlimited series

Cons

Only adds 1.5’“of height

Doesn’t include shock absorbers

Runner-up

Skyjacker TJ401BPH

Skyjacker (TJ401BPH) 4' Lift Pallet Kit

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What Recent Buyers Report

While many customers had no issues installing the parts, a large amount found that the instructions themselves are lacking. However, all recent buyers are impressed with the quality of the high-grade steel kit. Most of the customers who installed the kit themselves found it took at least four hours due to all the included parts.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The most prominent feature of the Rough Country 635 is the lifetime warranty it provides. This feature will ensure that you won’t have to purchase another kit even if the lift breaks. The part is also made out of high-grade steel, making it extremely unlikely that you’ll ever need that warranty.

The kit also includes shock extenders for both the front and rear ends of your vehicle. The added height gained from this product allows for a wheel size of up to 35 inches. This clearance benefits any of the many models supported, from 2007 to the 2018 Jeep Wranglers.

Bottom Line

Rough Country 635 is the runner-up to the best lift kits available for a Jeep Wrangler as it provides an easy installation along with a lifetime warranty. However, while you get shock extenders with the parts, you’ll likely need to purchase sway bar links.

Pros

Made from high-grade steel

Allows for tires of up to 35 inches

Compatible with a large selection of Jeeps

Comes with front and rear shock extenders

Made in the USA and offers a lifetime warranty

Cons

Poor installation instructions

Doesn’t include sway bar links

Best for the Money

Supreme Suspensions – Full Lift Kit

Supreme Suspensions - Full Lift Kit for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ 3' Front + 3' Rear Suspension Lift + Supreme Suspensions Shock Absorbers 2WD 4WD

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What Recent Buyers Report

Many recent buyers found that the kit looked terrific and offered a great style addition for less than many of the other expensive options. A few comments were made on how poorly the installation instructions are and that you’ll need some DIY knowledge to finish the job smoothly.

Why it Stands Out to Us

A lifetime warranty for a kit made within the USA is always a top feature for any of these lifts. The product is made of high-grade steel with a powder coat finish that’s stylish and long-lasting. The kit will work on any model of Jeep Wrangler from 2007 to 2018 as well.

The item includes shock extenders, providing them for both the front and back sides of your vehicle. The product is entirely a bolt-on installation, making it a quick and straightforward process once you know what to do. After fitting it, you’re able to use tires up to 35 inches in size.

Bottom Line

The MotoFab Lifts Full Lift Kit is another excellent choice when looking for the best lift kits for a Jeep Wrangler. The product has a lifetime warranty and is made from quality materials. However, it doesn’t include sway bar links and has poor installation instructions.

Pros

Clears for up to 35-inch tires

Compatible with a wide variety of Jeep models

Offers a lifetime warranty on its USA manufactured parts

Includes shock extenders for both front and rear of the vehicle

Made from high-grade steel and has a black powder coat finish

Cons

Poor included instructions

Doesn’t include sway bar links

Best Jeep TJ 3-Inch Lift Kit

Daystar KJ09126BK

Daystar, Jeep TJ Wrangler 3' Lift Kit with bump stops, transfer case drop, track bar bracket and front and rear shocks, fits 1997 to 2006 2/4WD, all transmissions, KJ09126BK, Made in America , Black

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What Recent Buyers Report

Many recent buyers found the product a great purchase worth the price and work well even though it’s on the cheaper spectrum. Most customers could easily follow the installation instructions with only a few minor challenges. Many buyers are satisfied with the additional clearance and quality of the parts.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The American Automotive Full Lift Kit is one of the best lift kits for a Jeep Wrangler and stands out due to its impressive tire clearance. The product lets you use wheels with a size of up to 35 inches in diameter. The parts used are made of quarter-inch cut steel.

The kit provides 3” spacers for both the front and rear ends of your vehicle. The installation is noticeably quick as you’ll be done within hours. Additionally, you can install the included shock and brake line extenders.

Bottom Line

While the American Automotive Full Lift Kit isn’t great for the outdoors, it works perfectly on city roads. With this product, you can use tires of up to 35″ thanks to the 3″ lift. Overall, the parts are made from high-grade steel.

Pros

Clears for tires of up to 35 inches

Raises the vehicle by 3” in front and rear

Includes shock and brake line extenders

Suitable for many Jeep Wrangler models

Easy bolt-on installation that takes only a few hours

Cons

Doesn’t work well for off-roading

Tricky to install as some holes are often misaligned

Best Jeep TJ 4-Inch Lift Kit

Rough Country 90630

Rough Country 4' Lift Kit for 1997-2002 Jeep Wrangler TJ 4WD - 90630

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What Recent Buyers Report

The most recent buyers liked this product, commenting that the Jeep was as they’d want from the factory after installing it. All the parts fit well, and the finish on them was pleasing to most. However, one customer wasn’t satisfied and ordered alternative pieces separately.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Bylot 2.5″ Suspension Lift Kit comes with everything you need to install it, cutting out the requirement to buy other parts. Included with it are the coil spring spacers for both ends of your vehicle, rear brake cable brackets, and backtrack rod brackets. Additionally, it comes with rear swing link connecting tools and shock-absorbing repositioning brackets.

The 2.5-inch ground distance added to your vehicle is impressive. With the wide selection of supported models and included hardware, this is easily one of the best lift kits for your Jeep Wrangler. It also includes all the bolts and other items you’ll need to do the installation yourself.

Bottom Line

The Bylot 2.5″ Suspension Lift Kit includes many parts you’d typically spend more money on when installing the product yourself. While it adds 2.5 inches ground clearance to your vehicle, the pieces can feel cheap, and you may seek alternatives afterward.

Pros

Adds extra ground clearance

Comes with brake cable brackets

Various important hardware included

Compatible with a wide selection of Jeeps

Includes spring spacers for front and rear

Cons

Parts feel cheap 

A few confusing instructions

Best Jeep TJ 2-Inch Lift Kit

Rusty’s Off-Road 2-inch Lift Kit

Rusty's Off-Road 2-inch Basic Suspension Lift Kit (TJ)

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What Recent Buyers Report

Most recent buyers were happy with the product and agreed that it fulfilled the job. The item lifts your Jeep as advertised after a simple installation, as reported by many customers. The product is a great way to get some extra clearance without needing any additional parts or purchases.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Daystar KJ09100BK stands out as one of the best lift kits for your Jeep Wrangler as it’s an extremely cost-effective way to gain a small amount of clearance. There are very few parts, making for a quick and straightforward installation. While the kit adds very little extra support, it’s still great that you’re able to increase your tire size.

Additionally, this is a non-metal option that’s still strong enough to add the needed clearance easily. This material makes the kit lightweight, which is a great benefit when you’re installing it alone. The Daystar KJ09100BK is all you need to add 1.75″ to your Jeep.

Bottom Line

The Daystar KJ09100BK is not ideal for driving around on a trail or off-road. However, it provides excellent ground clearance and has a straightforward and easily followed installation process. The item allows for other tires that generally wouldn’t fit without a more considerable height.

Pros

Lightweight

Allows for larger tires

Straightforward installation

The design increases ground clearance

Made from an intense high-density polyurethane

Cons

Not ideal for off-road

Not made of metal and can wear down quickly

Best Jeep TJ 6-Inch Lift Kit

Rough Country 66220

Rough Country 6' X-Series Lift Kit for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ - 66220

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What Recent Buyers Report

Recent purchasers found the Rough Country 1146 to be an easy and quick installation that can be done within 2 hours. However, a few reports say that you’ll want to add an extra washer to keep the top link from wearing into the track bar connection. A few customers also have found the product to be cheap, wearing out after a few short years.

Why it Stands Out to Us

While this isn’t a lift, it still deserves to be listed as one of the best lift kits available for any Jeep Wrangler as the part is a needed add-on. Using the product gives you better vehicle articulation when venturing on harsh terrain. This kit frees up your suspension to provide you with better traction on uneven roads.

Once you’ve finished the installation, you’re ready to get on the road in an instant and can secure these away when they’re not in use. All you need to do is a quick pull of the pin, and you’re ready to traverse any terrain.

Bottom Line

Unfortunately, the Rough Country 1146 isn’t a full lift kit, and it’s only front sway bar disconnects. However, it is a useful addition to almost any lift kit that enables better suspension.

Pros

Secured and safe

Provides better performance

Backed by a lifetime warranty

Better articulation when off-road

Quickly gets you ready to go off-road

Cons

Requires drilling

Only includes the sway bars

How to Choose a Jeep Wrangler Lift Kit

There are a few essential aspects to consider before choosing which lift kit is best suited for your Jeep. Namely, these are the height you want to add, the secondary parts, and the wheel size you want to upgrade.

Height

Any of the best lift kits for a Jeep Wrangler range from one to six inches in added height. The wide variety of options make it hard to consider as each added inch affects how you’ll drive. Having a vehicle raised higher gives better clearance from rocks and lowers the chance of bottoming out, but changes your perspective as well.

Photo credit: gearjunkie.com

Wheels

Changing the wheels that came with your vehicle to larger ones is an excellent idea if you’re going off-road driving. The larger the tire, the more it will deform around rocks and other debris. However, if there isn’t enough space or clearance for it, you may damage your Jeep.

Secondary Parts

Often a standard lift kit will only include the parts needed to raise your vehicle and add clearance. However, some sets come with needed items such as brake cable brackets or shock absorbers. Buying these parts together can save time and money when installing the kit, but they aren’t always necessary.

Advantages of Investing in a Quality Lift Kit for Jeep Wrangler

There are several reasons to invest in a quality lift kit instead of a cheaper option. One of the biggest reasons is the warranty included with many of the higher-end products that’ll save you money should anything break. The other reasons are the ease of DIY installation and the height added for off-roading.

Warranty

Warranty isn’t always a need when the parts are made from high-quality materials. However, having it keeps you safe if an item breaks while you’re off-road. Additionally, some products offer a lifetime warranty, letting you keep the same set with your Jeep.

Installation

Installing any of the best lift kits for a Jeep Wrangler is a time-consuming and challenging process. While many of the products have bolt-on and easy installations, lower-quality options can take longer than the average three- to four-hour time frame.

Height

Often the higher you want to lift your Jeep, the more costly a kit is. However, these products are also made from higher quality materials and will wear down less. This resilience makes choosing quality parts with a decent height a better choice if you’re going to go off-road.

Photo credit: car-engineer.com

Lift Kit Types for Jeep Wrangler

There are five different lift kit types available for the Jeep Wrangler, each fitting other driving habits and preferences.

Body Lift

This option is one of the cheapest ways to lift your Jeep. A body lift simply adds space between the vehicle’s body and its frame. This aspect keeps the standard shocks and tires while adding between one and three inches of clearance.

Budget Boost/Coil Spring Spacers

This option uses coil spacers that are placed on top of your Jeep’s coil springs to add 1.5” to 2” of clearance. This item is a popular lift kit as it doesn’t require any suspension modifications to work correctly. However, this type is only useful for changing how your vehicle looks.

Coil Lifts

This lift type uses longer coil springs than your stock ones. This kit provides 2.5” to 3” of clearance and is ideal for off-roading.

Arm Lift Kit

There are two types of arm lift kits. The short arm works similarly to the coil type with the addition of longer control arms in the front and rear of your vehicle. These types are common as they are highly effective.

Long arm lift kits use longer control arms that get mounted further back for better suspension angles. This option gives your Jeep better articulation but can suffer as rocks quickly hit the parts.

Photo credit: claytonoffroad.com

Wrangler Lift Kit Comparisons

As there are a few options when selecting one of the best lift kits for your Jeep Wrangler, we’ll compare them and show each option’s benefits.

Jeep Wrangler Body Lift vs Budget Boost

Both the standard body lift and budget boost options are cheap and affordable. These types are both only for style and should not be used for significant off-roading. Neither option requires additional modifications.

However, a budget boost kit is ideal if you’re looking to add larger tires that the body lift can’t accommodate. The average added clearance for a body lift is one to three inches compared to the budget boost. However, if you’re keeping on the road, a standard body lift is the better option.

Jeep Wrangler Leveling Kit vs Long Arm Lift

Unlike with a lift kit, a leveling kit such as the long arm kit provides better articulation and suspension. An option that only levels the vehicle’s height won’t give as much stability when traveling off-road. This kit makes the ride smoother off the road but changes extremely little when in the city.

However, for style, a typical leveling kit is ideal as it straightens the vehicle’s body and adds only a small amount of clearance. However, a leveling kit can feel redundant if your Jeep carries a heavy load that naturally levels itself out. 

The long arm lift provides support and allows for larger tires that cushion your travels.

Photo credit: superlift.com

Budget Boost vs Coil Lift

Budget boosts and coil lifts are incredibly similar as both affect the springs on your vehicle. However, an average budget boost kit isn’t suitable for anything except the road.

A coil lift will work better when traveling off-road and on unpleasant terrain as it uses longer springs than you’re supplied with from the factory.

Additionally, coil lifts are susceptible to damage as the control arms can easily get hit by rocks or debris. A budget boost kit doesn’t have this issue as none of its parts are exposed.

How to Install 2.5 Lift Kit on Jeep Wrangler

Whether you’re installing a lift kit with springs or spacers, the process is mostly the same. The process is a bit difficult and will take at least three hours to do yourself, but these essential tips will help speed it along. If you get confused or need more information, be sure to check the video below.

Rear

To start, you’ll need to raise your vehicle to work under it using a lift or any stable alternative means available. Start by removing the tires of the car’s rear and support the axle. For detailed information on removing bolts, you should see the video.

Ensure that you have enough space to lower the axle from the body; you’ll need the area to remove the stock coil springs. This area is also where you’ll install the coil spring spacer and then place the spring back and reinstall any removed parts.

Front

This section begins much like the rear with the removal of your wheels. Once again, support the axle and remove the lower sway bar bolts and other pieces to lower it. Remove the springs on both sides and install the spacer before returning the spring and all other parts to their space.

Photo credit: bilsteinlifts.com

Conclusion

Picking one of the best lift kits for a Jeep Wrangler is always a tough decision, especially when deciding what height to choose. It’s essential to look for a quality part and invest in a professional to ensure you don’t lose your car’s warranty.

Quick Summary – Best Lift Kits for Jeep Wrangler

Before you head out, here’s a quick summary of the best lift kits for Jeep Wrangler:

  1. Daystar KJ09100BK
  2. Skyjacker TJ401BPH
  3. Supreme Suspensions – Full Lift Kit

People Also Ask

The following are frequently asked questions that summarize a few previously mentioned points.

Will Installing Larger Tires With a New Lift Kit Affect the Ride?

Yes, mainly installing larger tires will make your ride a lot smoother. A bigger wheel deforms around rocks and bumps more than the smaller sizes and results in a less bouncy journey. The larger tires also add clearance between your vehicle and the ground, resulting in less bottoming out and a smoother ride over speed bumps and inclines.

Will Installing a Lift Kit Void the Jeep’s Warranty?

Any aftermarket item you install onto your Jeep will not void your warranty. However, this is different if the part itself is the cause of damage to your vehicle. Additionally, some mechanics may refuse to repair your vehicle under warranty if they suspect the piece has caused the issue.

Can Lifting Damage My Vehicle?

The only way to damage your vehicle with a lift kit is to install it incorrectly. If the part is handled correctly and no shortcuts have been taken, you won’t see any adverse effects. However, lift kits do change how fast some parts experience wear, breaking them sooner than usual.

Can I Put Bigger Tires on My Jeep Without a Lift?

Yes, it’s possible to have larger tires on a stock Jeep Wrangler even though the options are limited. However, the maximum size depends on your vehicle’s exact model. The possible range is 33 inches and under but you may have issues with spacing.

How Much is a Lift Kit for a Jeep Wrangler?

A body lift kit for a Jeep can cost anywhere between $100 to $200 as it’s the cheapest option. A basic suspension kit ranges from $400 to $1,000, easily, for the high-end adjustable kits. However, the price only increases with the height you’re looking to add and can quickly cost over $3,000.

What is the Jeep Wrangler Lift Kit Installation Cost?

The range for Jeep Wrangler lift kits is massive, starting from around $200 and reaching costs of over $2,000. This price will increase if any of your parts need servicing before you install the item. However, if it’s DIY, it’ll only cost the kit’s price and possibly between $75 and $200 to realign the wheels.

Why Lift a Jeep?

There are several benefits to using a lift kit on your Jeep. The primary purpose involves off-roading as you get better clearance and the option to use larger tires. Using a more oversized tire cushion you on the road as it deforms more to smoothen your journey.

Who Worked on This?


Brian

Editor

A master of organization, Brian helps keep everything running smoothly for Your Jeep Guide.

No Jeep yet but we’re working on that!

Cory

Writer

Cory loves his XJ and frequently thrashes it through the hills. He’s constantly fixing something.


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