Does the Z71 have a factory lift?
The Z71 Off-Road Package does not include a factory lift. It adds off-road hardware and protection, with only modest changes to ride height at most. This article outlines what the Z71 includes, how it affects ground clearance, and what to know when shopping for a Z71-equipped truck.
What the Z71 Off-Road Package Includes
Key components that define the Z71 package focus on durability, protection, and off-road capability rather than elevating the vehicle. The list below covers the core elements buyers should expect, though features can vary slightly by model year and drivetrain.
- Off-road tuned suspension and upgraded shock absorbers (often including Rancho or similar shocks)
- Underbody skid plates protecting the engine, transfer case, and fuel tank
- All-terrain tires and, depending on the year, larger or more capable wheel options
- Distinct exterior styling cues and Z71 badging inside and out
- Enhanced off-road features such as improved transfer case settings or Hill Descent Control on 4x4 models (year/model dependent)
In short, the Z71 package enhances durability and traction for off-road use but does not install a factory-upgraded lift. Any noticeable gain in ground clearance comes from suspension tuning and tire/wheel choices, which can vary by year.
Does the Z71 Increase Ground Clearance?
For current Silverado and related GM trucks, the Z71 Off-Road Package does not include a dedicated lift kit from the factory. The suspension and tire upgrades may yield a small, incremental rise in ride height compared with base trims, but there is no official “lift” specification attached to the Z71. If a dealer lists a height increase, it’s usually due to wheel/tire combinations or year-specific tuning rather than a manufacturer-installed lift kit.
Year-to-Year Variations and What to Check
Because features can shift slightly with redesigns and option packages, always verify the exact contents of the Z71 package for the specific model year you’re considering. Check the build sheet or window sticker, and ask the dealer to confirm whether any height changes are tied to tires or optional wheel choices rather than a true suspension lift.
How to Verify for Your Vehicle
To confirm whether your Z71-equipped truck has a factory lift, review the official GM specification sheet for that model year, look at the ride height measurements in the vehicle’s spec sheet, and compare with non‑Z71 trims. If you’re evaluating a used truck, a quick measurement of ground clearance and a inspection of the suspension components (shocks, skid plates) can reveal whether a true lift kit exists outside of factory options.
Bottom Line for Buyers
Conventional Z71 equipment prioritizes off-road capability and protection over increasing ride height. If you’re after a noticeable factory lift, you’ll generally need an aftermarket solution or a different model/trim that explicitly includes a lifted suspension. Always verify the exact spec for the year and build you’re considering.
Summary
The Z71 Off-Road Package enhances durability, protection, and off-road capability on GM trucks, but it does not provide a factory lift. Any rise in ground clearance is typically modest and comes from suspension tuning and tire choices rather than a dedicated lift kit. For true lifting, explore aftermarket options or model variants that explicitly advertise increased ride height.
What's so special about Z71?
Higher load limits, better bed configurations, and a larger tow capacity are often part of a z71 package. Finally, certain z71 packages offer significant aesthetic advantages as well, such as added roof racks, larger wheels, rear spoilers, and so on.
Does the Z71 package have a lift?
No, the standard Z71 package does not include a factory lift kit, but it does include an off-road suspension with Rancho shocks. Some specific models that come with the Z71 package, like the Trail Boss, include a factory lift. For standard Z71 models, you can add a lift separately to achieve greater ground clearance.
Standard Z71 features
Off-road suspension with Rancho® shocks, All-terrain tires, Skid plates, Hill descent control, and Autotrac® 2-speed transfer case (on most models).
Models with a factory lift
- Trail Boss: This model includes the Z71 package along with a factory 2-inch lift.
- Midnight Edition: Some versions of this model come with a 2-inch factory lift.
What Chevy trucks come with a factory lift?
Chevrolet: Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: A mid-size truck with a factory lift and off-road enhancements. Chevrolet Silverado ZR2: A full-size off-road truck with a factory lift. Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss: Comes with a factory lift and off-road suspension.
What is the Z71 suspension package?
The Z71 suspension package is an optional off-road upgrade for Chevrolet trucks that includes an off-road suspension with Rancho shocks, an underbody transfer case shield, a locking rear differential, and hill descent control. It also often comes with all-terrain tires, an automatic two-speed transfer case, and a heavy-duty air cleaner to enhance off-road performance and durability.
This video explains the features of the Z71 off-road package: 55sGeneral Motors JeffYouTube · Jan 31, 2021
Key components of the Z71 package:
- Off-road suspension: A specially tuned suspension system for improved ground clearance, stability, and maneuverability on rough terrain, which includes Rancho brand shocks.
- Skid plates: Protective metal shields under the vehicle to guard the underbody from rocks and other obstacles.
- Locking rear differential: An automatic locking rear differential that improves traction by sending power to both rear wheels when needed.
- Hill descent control: A feature that uses the brakes to maintain a slow, controlled speed when going down steep inclines.
- Two-speed transfer case: An Autotrac 2-speed transfer case that allows for lower gearing for more power and control when navigating challenging terrain.
- All-terrain tires: Tires designed for excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, from pavement to dirt and mud.
- Heavy-duty air cleaner: A high-capacity air cleaner that helps the engine perform better in dusty or dirty off-road conditions.
- Recovery hooks: Front recovery hooks for safer towing and recovery situations.
