What BDS lift kits do and why people install them

BDS Suspension makes lift kits that raise the frame and body of pickup trucks and SUVs, increasing ground clearance and changing the truck's stance. A lift kit typically raises a vehicle between 2 and 12 inches, depending on the model and kit type. The higher ride height lets you fit larger tires, navigate rough terrain more easily, and change the truck's appearance.

BDS kits come in two main types: suspension lifts, which raise the vehicle by modifying springs, shocks, and control arms, and body lifts, which raise only the body a few inches above the frame using spacers. Suspension lifts are more common and more expensive, but they improve off-road capability and ride quality. Body lifts are cheaper and simpler to install but do not improve suspension performance.

BDS is one of several manufacturers in this market, alongside Rough Country, Rancho, and Fabtech. BDS kits are generally considered mid-range in price and quality — more expensive than budget brands but less costly than premium systems from companies like Fox or King.

Key Takeaways

  • BDS suspension lifts raise your truck's frame and body by modifying springs, shocks, and control arms, while body lifts use spacers and cost less but do not improve handling.
  • Lift height ranges from 2 to 12 inches depending on the kit and vehicle, and the choice affects tire size, ride quality, and how the truck handles on road and off-road.
  • Installation typically costs between $1,500 and $4,000 in labor on top of the kit price, and requires alignment afterward to prevent uneven tire wear.
  • A lift kit changes how your truck handles braking, steering, and stability, and may affect your insurance rates or void your warranty depending on your vehicle and policy.
  • BDS kits are available for most common pickup trucks and SUVs, but fitment varies by year, engine, and wheelbase, so verify compatibility before purchase.

Suspension lift versus body lift: which one to choose

A suspension lift replaces or modifies the springs, shocks, and control arms that connect your wheels to the frame. This approach raises the entire suspension system, which means the truck sits higher and the suspension geometry changes. The result is better ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles for off-road driving, and a smoother ride over bumps because the suspension has more travel.

A body lift uses spacers or brackets to raise the truck's body a few inches above the frame, leaving the suspension untouched. The wheels stay in the same place relative to the ground, so you gain clearance for larger tires but not for the frame itself. Body lifts are cheaper — often $300 to $800 for the kit alone — and faster to install, but they do not improve how the truck handles rough terrain or absorb bumps better.

Most people who plan to drive off-road or want a noticeable improvement in handling choose a suspension lift. Those who mainly want the look of a lifted truck and plan to stay on paved roads often choose a body lift to save money. BDS makes both types, so the choice depends on your budget and how you plan to use the truck.

How much BDS lift kits cost and what affects the price

BDS suspension lift kits for common trucks typically range from $1,200 to $3,500 for the kit alone, not including installation. Body lifts cost $300 to $1,000. The price depends on lift height, vehicle make and model, and whether the kit includes shocks or uses your existing ones.

Installation labor usually adds $1,500 to $4,000, depending on your location and the shop's experience with lift kits. Some shops charge a flat rate; others charge hourly. A 4-inch suspension lift on a Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado typically takes 8 to 16 hours to install. Shops in rural areas may charge less than those in cities, and shops that specialize in truck work often charge more than general mechanics but finish faster.

After installation, you will need a wheel alignment, which costs $150 to $300. Some shops include this in the labor quote; others charge separately. You may also want to upgrade your tires to take advantage of the extra clearance, which can cost $600 to $2,000 depending on size and quality. Budget for these costs before you commit to a lift.

What changes in how your truck handles after a lift

Lifting your truck raises its center of gravity, which means the truck is more likely to roll in sharp turns or emergency maneuvers. The higher you lift it, the more pronounced this effect. A 2-inch lift has minimal impact on handling; a 6-inch or higher lift noticeably changes how the truck feels, especially at highway speeds or when turning hard.

Braking distance may increase slightly because the truck's weight is distributed differently and the suspension geometry changes. Steering response also changes — the truck may feel less responsive or require more input to turn. These changes are usually manageable for daily driving, but they matter if you tow heavy loads or drive in conditions where quick steering is important.

Ride quality depends on the shocks included in the kit. A quality suspension lift with good shocks often rides smoother than the stock suspension, especially over bumps. A cheap lift with poor shocks may ride harsher. BDS kits typically include decent shocks, but upgrading to better ones (like Bilstein or Fox) improves ride quality and costs $400 to $1,200 more.

Compatibility and fitment for different trucks and SUVs

BDS makes lift kits for most common pickup trucks and SUVs, including Ford F-150, F-250, and Bronco; Chevrolet Silverado and Tahoe; GMC Sierra and Yukon; Dodge Ram; Toyota Tundra, Tacoma, and 4Runner; and Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee. However, fitment varies by year, engine size, and wheelbase. A kit for a 2023 Ford F-150 SuperCrew will not fit a 2020 F-150 SuperCab, and a kit for a 4-cylinder engine may not work with a V8.

Before buying, verify the exact year, model, engine, and wheelbase of your vehicle. BDS publishes fitment charts on its website and through retailers. If you are unsure, contact BDS customer service or a shop that installs BDS kits — they can confirm compatibility and recommend the right kit for your truck.

Some vehicles have limited lift options. Newer trucks with independent front suspension (like the current Ford F-150) have different lift options than older trucks with solid axles. All-wheel-drive vehicles may have different kits than rear-wheel-drive versions. Check compatibility before you order.

Warranty and insurance implications of lifting your truck

Installing a lift kit may void your vehicle's manufacturer warranty, depending on the terms and what fails. Most manufacturers will not cover suspension or drivetrain damage if they determine the lift kit caused it. Some will still cover unrelated systems like the engine or transmission. Read your warranty documents or contact your dealer to understand what coverage you lose.

Your insurance company may need to know about the lift kit. Some insurers charge a higher premium because a lifted truck is more expensive to repair and may be perceived as higher-risk. Others do not charge extra. A few will not insure a lifted vehicle at all. Contact your insurer before installation to ask whether the lift affects your policy or premium.

If you lift your truck higher than a certain amount — often 2 inches — your vehicle may no longer meet your state's vehicle code for headlight height or bumper height. Some states have specific rules about how high a truck can be lifted. Check your state's regulations before you install a kit taller than 4 inches.

Installation: what to expect and how to choose a shop

Installation typically takes one to three days, depending on the kit complexity and shop workload. The shop will remove the wheels, disconnect the suspension, install new springs or shocks, adjust control arms, and reinstall everything. They will then perform a wheel alignment to may support the tires wear evenly and the truck handles correctly.

Choose a shop with experience installing lift kits, not just a general mechanic. Shops that specialize in truck work or suspension upgrades are more likely to do the job correctly and quickly. Ask for references, check online reviews, and ask whether they warranty their work. A good shop will stand behind the installation and fix any problems that arise within a reasonable time.

Before you drop off your truck, confirm the total cost in writing, including the kit, labor, alignment, and any other charges. Ask how long it will take and when you can pick it up. Some shops will loan you a vehicle while yours is being worked on; others will not. Clarify this before you leave your truck.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a lift kit damage my truck's transmission or engine?

A properly installed suspension lift does not damage the transmission or engine. However, a poorly installed lift can cause alignment problems that strain the drivetrain over time. Choose an experienced shop and have the alignment checked after installation to avoid this.

Can I install a lift kit myself?

Some people with mechanical experience install their own lift kits, but it requires special tools, a lift or jack stands, and knowledge of suspension geometry. Mistakes can make the truck unsafe to drive. Most people have a shop do the work to may support it is done correctly.

How often do I need to service a lifted truck?

Lifted trucks need the same regular maintenance as stock trucks — oil changes, tire rotations, and brake service. However, the suspension components may wear faster because the geometry has changed. Have the alignment checked annually and inspect shocks and springs for wear.

Will a lift kit make my truck use more fuel?

Yes, typically by 1 to 3 miles per gallon, depending on lift height and tire size. The higher center of gravity and increased wind resistance use more fuel. Larger tires also increase rolling resistance. The effect is small for a 2-inch lift but more noticeable for 6 inches or higher.

Can I remove a lift kit and return the truck to stock height?

Yes, a lift kit can be removed and the truck returned to stock suspension. However, the stock suspension components may be worn or damaged after years of use, so you may need to replace them. This can cost as much as the lift installation itself.