What a RAM 1500 suspension lift kit does
A suspension lift kit raises the body and frame of your RAM 1500 by extending or replacing the suspension components — springs, shocks, control arms, or a combination of these. The result is more ground clearance between the undercarriage and the terrain, which lets you fit larger tires, navigate rougher ground, and change the truck's stance and appearance.
Lift kits do not change the truck's engine, transmission, or basic driving system. They work by altering how the suspension geometry sits relative to the frame. A 2-inch lift is common for street use; 4-inch to 6-inch lifts are typical for off-road trucks; some kits go higher. The amount of lift you gain depends on which components the kit replaces and how they are engineered.
Key Takeaways
- Suspension lift kits raise your RAM 1500 by replacing springs, shocks, or control arms, and the amount of lift ranges from 2 inches to 8 inches or more depending on the kit type.
- Coil spring kits are the most common for RAM 1500s and tend to cost less; air suspension and link kits offer different ride characteristics and price points.
- Lifting changes how your truck handles, affects fuel economy, and may require adjustments to the driveshaft, brake lines, and steering geometry.
- Installation typically takes a shop one to three days, and labor costs often exceed the kit price itself.
- A lifted truck may need new tires, wheels, and alignment work, and these costs are separate from the kit and installation.
Types of suspension lift kits for the RAM 1500
The most common type is a coil spring lift kit, which replaces the factory coil springs with longer or stiffer ones and often includes new shocks. Coil spring kits are straightforward to install, widely available, and usually the least expensive option. They work well for street driving and light off-road use.
Air suspension lift kits replace the coil springs with air springs that can be adjusted to raise or lower the truck on demand. These kits offer a smoother ride on pavement and let you lower the truck for highway driving or raise it for obstacles. They cost more than coil spring kits and require an onboard compressor and control module.
Link kits or control arm kits replace the upper and lower control arms with longer versions, which raises the truck without changing the springs. These are often combined with new shocks and are common in high-end or custom builds. They preserve the factory ride quality better than some other methods but are more labor-intensive to install.
Some kits combine methods — for example, a coil spring lift paired with longer control arms. The RAM 1500 platform (DT, which began in 2019) has different suspension geometry than older models, so kits are generation-specific. Always confirm your truck's model year and generation before ordering.
Cost breakdown: kit, installation, and related work
A coil spring lift kit for a RAM 1500 typically ranges from $400 to $1,200 depending on brand, lift height, and whether shocks are included. Air suspension kits run $1,500 to $3,500 or more. Link kits and control arm kits fall in the $800 to $2,000 range for the parts alone.
Installation labor at a shop usually costs $500 to $1,500 for a coil spring kit, and $1,500 to $3,000 for more complex kits. The total time is typically one to three days. Some shops charge a flat rate; others charge hourly. Shops that specialize in truck lifts often finish faster and may offer warranties on their work.
Beyond the kit and labor, plan for additional costs. New tires and wheels to match the lifted height often run $1,200 to $3,000. A four-wheel alignment is necessary and costs $150 to $300. If the lift is tall enough, you may need a driveshaft spacer or replacement ($200 to $600) and brake line extensions ($100 to $300). Some lifts require a steering geometry correction kit to maintain proper handling.
How a lift kit changes your truck's handling and performance
Lifting your RAM 1500 raises the center of gravity, which means the truck will lean more in corners and feel less stable during sharp turns compared to the stock suspension. A well-engineered kit with quality shocks minimizes this effect, but it does not eliminate it. Coil spring kits tend to preserve handling better than some other methods because they keep the suspension geometry closer to stock.
Fuel economy typically decreases after a lift, especially if you also install larger tires. The increase in aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance can reduce MPG by 1 to 3 miles per gallon or more, depending on tire size and how you drive. Highway driving is affected more than city driving.
Braking distance may increase slightly because the truck's weight is now higher and the center of gravity has shifted. Quality shocks and proper alignment help, but this is a real change to account for. Towing capacity may also be affected depending on the kit; check the manufacturer's specifications for your specific lift and truck year.
Installation: what happens at the shop
The truck is lifted on a hoist, and the wheels and tires are removed. The shop then removes the factory suspension components — usually the springs and shocks, sometimes the control arms as well. New components from the kit are installed in their place, and everything is torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
Once the suspension is installed, the truck is lowered and the wheels are reinstalled. The shop then performs a four-wheel alignment to adjust the camber, caster, and toe angles so the truck tracks straight and the tires wear evenly. This step is critical and should never be skipped, even if the kit comes with alignment instructions.
If the lift is tall enough to affect the driveshaft angle, the shop may install a spacer or replace the driveshaft. Brake lines may need extensions if they are too short after the lift. Some shops will also inspect and adjust the steering geometry to may support the truck does not have bump steer or other handling issues.
Warranty and long-term durability concerns
Most aftermarket lift kits come with a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, typically one to three years. This warranty usually does not cover wear and tear, damage from off-road use, or problems caused by improper installation. Read the warranty terms before you buy.
Your RAM 1500's factory warranty may be affected by a lift kit. Dodge does not void the entire warranty for a suspension modification, but they may deny coverage for suspension-related failures if they determine the lift caused the problem. Keep documentation of the kit, installation, and any maintenance you perform.
Lifted trucks experience more wear on suspension components because the geometry is no longer factory-optimized. Bushings, ball joints, and tie rods may wear faster than on a stock truck. Regular inspection and maintenance — checking for play in the steering, listening for clunks, and replacing worn parts promptly — extends the life of the suspension and keeps the truck safe.
Choosing between DIY installation and professional shop work
Installing a lift kit yourself is possible if you have a hoist, jack stands, basic suspension tools, and mechanical experience. Coil spring kits are the most DIY-friendly because they involve fewer components and less geometry work. However, the alignment step requires specialized equipment that most home garages do not have, and a poor alignment will cause uneven tire wear and handling problems.
Professional installation is the safer choice for most owners. A shop has the equipment, experience, and warranty backing to do the job right. They can also catch problems — like worn suspension components or frame damage — that might not be obvious during a DIY install. The labor cost is real, but it is insurance against costly mistakes.
If you do choose to install the kit yourself, budget for a professional alignment afterward. This is not optional. Also plan to have a shop inspect the work before you drive the truck hard or off-road, especially if this is your first lift kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a lift kit void my RAM 1500's warranty?
Dodge does not automatically void the entire warranty for a suspension lift. However, they may deny coverage for suspension-related failures if they determine the lift caused the problem. Keep all documentation of the kit and installation. Unrelated systems — engine, transmission, electronics — should remain covered.
How much larger can my tires be after a lift?
A 2-inch lift typically allows one size larger tire; a 4-inch lift allows two sizes larger. For example, if your RAM 1500 came with 275/60R20 tires, a 4-inch lift might let you fit 305/70R18 or similar. The exact size depends on the lift height, wheel offset, and whether you want to maintain speedometer accuracy. A tire shop can advise based on your specific setup.
Do I need to replace my shocks when I install a lift kit?
Most lift kits include new shocks, and you should use them. Factory shocks are tuned for the stock suspension geometry and spring rate. Mismatched shocks and springs will cause a rough ride and poor handling. If your kit does not include shocks, budget for quality replacements designed for the lift height.
How long does a lift kit installation take?
A straightforward coil spring kit typically takes one to two days at a shop. More complex kits with control arm replacements or air suspension may take two to three days. The alignment adds a few hours. Call ahead to confirm the shop's timeline and whether they can fit you into their schedule.
Can I install a lift kit on a RAM 1500 with air suspension from the factory?
Yes, but it is more complex. You can replace the factory air suspension with a coil spring or link kit, which requires removing the air compressor and control module. Some aftermarket air suspension kits are designed to work with or replace the factory system. Confirm compatibility with the kit manufacturer before ordering, as the factory air suspension adds weight and complexity.