ReadyLift suspension basics
ReadyLift is a suspension manufacturer that makes lift kits, leveling kits, and shock absorbers primarily for pickup trucks and SUVs. Their products raise your vehicle's ride height, which changes how your truck sits on the road and what tires and wheels you can fit underneath. ReadyLift kits are bolt-on systems — you don't need to cut or weld frame components — and they're sold as complete packages that include springs, shocks, brackets, and hardware.
The company focuses on light-duty trucks like Ford F-150s, Chevrolet Silverados, and Ram 1500s, though they make kits for other vehicles too. Their suspension work is done by independent shops, dealerships, or DIY installers with basic mechanical skill. ReadyLift products are one option among many in the aftermarket suspension space; other brands like Rough Country, BDS, and Bilstein also make similar kits.
Key Takeaways
- ReadyLift kits raise your vehicle's height by 2 to 6 inches depending on the kit, which lets you fit larger tires and changes your truck's appearance and ground clearance.
- Installation requires removing your existing suspension components and bolting on new springs, shocks, and brackets — a job that takes a shop 4 to 8 hours on average.
- ReadyLift kits cost between $400 and $2,500 depending on lift height and vehicle model, plus installation labor that varies by shop.
- Lifting your suspension affects your truck's handling, fuel economy, and wear on other parts like CV joints and wheel bearings, so understanding the trade-offs matters before you buy.
- ReadyLift offers different kit types — leveling kits for front-only lift, full suspension kits for all-around lift, and performance shocks — so you choose based on your goals and budget.
Types of ReadyLift kits and what each one does
ReadyLift makes three main categories of suspension products. Leveling kits raise only the front of your truck by 1.5 to 2.5 inches, which removes the factory rake (the slight downward angle from front to back). Leveling kits are the cheapest option and the easiest to install because they touch fewer components. They let you fit slightly larger tires up front and make your truck look more level, but they don't raise the rear, so your truck still sits lower in back than a full lift would.
Full suspension lift kits raise both front and rear by 2 to 6 inches using new springs and shocks all around. These kits change your truck's stance more dramatically and give you more ground clearance for off-road driving or rough terrain. Full lifts cost more than leveling kits and take longer to install because the work involves all four corners of your vehicle.
Shock upgrades are sold separately or as part of a kit. ReadyLift makes shocks tuned for lifted trucks, which handle the different suspension geometry and weight distribution that comes with a lift. If you buy a lift kit, the shocks included are matched to that specific lift height.
Installation: what happens and how long it takes
ReadyLift kits are designed for bolt-on installation, meaning a technician removes your factory suspension parts and bolts on the new ones without cutting or permanently altering your frame. The process starts with your truck on a lift, where the technician removes wheels, disconnects the sway bar, and unbolt the factory springs and shocks. Then they install the new springs, shocks, brackets, and hardware in reverse order, torque everything to spec, and reinstall your wheels.
Installation time depends on the kit type and your vehicle. A leveling kit typically takes 2 to 4 hours at a shop. A full suspension lift usually takes 4 to 8 hours because more components are involved. Some shops charge a flat rate for ReadyLift installation; others charge hourly labor. Shop rates vary widely by region and shop reputation, so getting quotes from three shops before committing is standard practice.
After installation, your truck needs a wheel alignment because the suspension geometry has changed. Most shops include alignment in the installation quote, but confirm this before you hand over your keys. Alignment usually takes 1 to 2 hours and costs $100 to $300 depending on your area.
Cost breakdown: kit price plus installation
ReadyLift kit prices vary by lift height and vehicle model. A leveling kit for a Ford F-150 typically costs $400 to $800. A 2-inch full suspension lift runs $800 to $1,200. A 4-inch or taller lift can cost $1,500 to $2,500 or more. These are kit-only prices and don't include installation labor or alignment.
Installation labor adds $400 to $1,200 depending on your shop's hourly rate and how long the job takes. Alignment adds another $100 to $300. So a complete leveling kit job might cost $600 to $1,400 total, while a full 4-inch lift could run $2,000 to $3,500 all-in. Prices also depend on your vehicle — some trucks have more complex suspension geometry and take longer to work on.
If you're comparing ReadyLift to other brands, get quotes on the same lift height from multiple manufacturers. Price alone doesn't tell you quality; some brands use heavier-duty springs or better shock absorbers, which affects durability and ride comfort. Reading owner reviews for your specific vehicle and lift height helps you understand what to expect.
How lifting your suspension affects your truck
Raising your suspension changes how your truck drives and what it costs to maintain. Ground clearance increases, which helps if you drive on rough roads or want to fit larger tires. Tire size is the main reason people lift — a lifted truck can fit 33-inch or 35-inch tires instead of the factory 31-inch or 32-inch. Larger tires look more aggressive and improve off-road capability, but they also cost more to replace and wear faster on pavement.
Handling changes when you lift. Your center of gravity rises, which means your truck is more prone to body roll in corners. The suspension geometry changes too, which can affect how your steering feels and how your truck tracks on the highway. Most people adapt quickly, but it's worth a test drive before you commit.
Fuel economy drops slightly after a lift, especially if you add larger tires. The heavier wheels and tires increase rolling resistance, and the taller profile means more wind drag. Expect a 1 to 3 mile-per-gallon loss depending on how much you lift and what tires you choose.
Wear on other parts accelerates after a lift. CV joints, wheel bearings, and brake components work at different angles and experience different loads. Your driveshaft may need a new angle compensator if you lift more than 2 inches. These aren't when ready failures, but they're costs to budget for over time.
ReadyLift vs. other suspension brands
ReadyLift competes with brands like Rough Country, BDS, Bilstein, and Icon Vehicle Dynamics. ReadyLift kits are generally mid-range in price and quality — not the cheapest option, but not the premium tier either. Rough Country is usually cheaper but has a reputation for harsher ride quality. BDS and Icon are pricier but use heavier-duty components and are popular with serious off-roaders.
The best choice depends on your use case. If you want a straightforward leveling kit for appearance and slightly larger tires, ReadyLift is a solid choice. If you plan heavy off-road use, you might want to compare BDS or Icon. If budget is tight, Rough Country kits work, but read reviews for your specific vehicle first because quality varies by model.
One advantage of ReadyLift is parts availability — they've been in business since 1999 and have a wide dealer network. If you need warranty service or replacement parts, you're more likely to find them locally than with smaller brands.
What to know before you buy
Before ordering a ReadyLift kit, confirm the exact year, make, and model of your truck — suspension kits are vehicle-specific and won't fit if you order for the wrong generation. Check whether the kit includes shocks or if you need to buy them separately. Verify that your chosen shop has experience installing ReadyLift kits on your truck; some shops specialize in certain brands and do better work as a result.
Think about your goals. If you mainly want your truck to look taller and fit bigger tires, a leveling kit or 2-inch lift is enough. If you plan serious off-roading, a 4-inch or taller lift with quality shocks is worth the extra cost. Consider whether you'll need a driveshaft angle compensator, which is required on some trucks with lifts over 2 inches.
Budget for alignment after installation — it's not optional if you want your truck to drive straight and your tires to wear evenly. Also budget for new tires if your current ones won't fit the new suspension geometry, and factor in the cost of larger tires if you plan to upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a ReadyLift kit void my truck's warranty?
It depends on your truck's warranty terms and what breaks. Suspension modifications can void powertrain or general warranty coverage on some vehicles, though many manufacturers only void warranty on parts directly affected by the lift. Check your warranty paperwork or call your dealer before you lift. If a suspension component fails, the dealer may deny the claim, but engine or transmission failures are usually still covered.
Can I install a ReadyLift kit myself?
If you have basic mechanical skill, a lift, and the right tools, you can install a leveling kit yourself — it's mostly bolt-on work. Full suspension lifts are more complex and require precise torque specs and alignment afterward. Most people have a shop do it to avoid mistakes that could affect handling or safety. If you're unsure, get a quote from a shop first.
How long does a ReadyLift suspension last?
ReadyLift components typically last 5 to 10 years depending on driving conditions and maintenance. Shocks wear out faster than springs — expect 50,000 to 80,000 miles before shocks need replacement. Springs can last the life of your truck if not damaged. Regular maintenance like wheel alignments and suspension inspections helps extend component life.
Do I need new wheels and tires after lifting?
Not always. A small leveling kit might fit your current wheels and tires. A 2-inch or taller lift usually requires new tires because your factory tires won't fit the new suspension geometry without rubbing. New wheels are optional — you can use your factory wheels with new, larger tires, or buy an aftermarket wheel and tire package.
Will lifting my truck affect my insurance?
Most insurance companies don't charge extra for a suspension lift alone. However, if you add larger tires or wheels, your insurer may ask about modifications when you renew. Some insurers charge slightly more for modified vehicles because they're more expensive to repair. Call your agent before you lift to understand how it affects your policy.