How much does it cost to put a 2 inch lift kit on a truck?
Most people end up spending roughly $1,000 to $2,000 for a complete 2-inch lift installed, though figures can swing higher or lower depending on kit type, labor rates, and tire choices.
To understand the price, you need to consider the type of lift, the components included, labor costs, alignment, and any follow-on upgrades such as wheels or larger tires. This article breaks down the typical costs you’ll encounter and what drives them, with practical guidance for budgeting and planning.
What goes into the price
The following breakdown outlines the main cost blocks that determine the final price of a 2-inch lift install. The figures reflect common U.S. market ranges as of 2024–2025 and can vary by vehicle, region, and shop.
Typical parts cost by kit type and related components:
- Spacer/leveling kits (2" spacers under the springs or struts): parts generally $50–$300, depending on brand and hardware.
- Complete 2" suspension lift kits (springs, shocks, and hardware): parts typically $400–$900.
- Premium or performance 2" lift kits (better shocks/coilovers, upgraded hardware): parts often $800–$1,800.
- Wheels and tires (if upgrading for the lift): set of tires can range from $600–$1,800+; wheels add extra, often $400–$1,000+ for a set.
Concluding: The price of the parts alone can vary widely, and most installers will bundle alignment and basic checks into the job, but tires, wheels, and premium components can push the total well beyond the base kit price.
Labor and installation time
Labor costs depend on shop rates, vehicle complexity, and how easily the suspension can be accessed. Expect the following typical ranges as a baseline.
- Labor time: most installs take about 3–6 hours for a simple spacer or coil-spring kit; more complex setups with exhaust, brake lines, or alignment adjustments can take 6–9 hours or more.
- Labor rate: common shop rates run roughly $80–$150 per hour, depending on regional pricing and shop quality.
- Alignment: after any suspension change, a wheel alignment is recommended and typically costs $60–$100.
Concluding: Labor can be the bigger portion of the cost, especially at higher hourly rates or with more involved installations. Scheduling a diagnostic check and alignment as part of the service helps ensure proper handling of the suspension work.
Other considerations that affect total cost
Beyond parts and labor, several factors can influence what you ultimately pay.
- Vehicle and kit compatibility: some trucks require extra brackets, braces, or extended-length bolts, which can add to the price.
- Warranty and insurance implications: some manufacturers or dealers may have guidelines on modifying suspensions; check if your installation affects your warranty.
- Installation location: urban area shops may charge more for labor than rural shops, and some shops offer package deals that reduce per-hour costs.
- Return on investment: a higher-quality kit with better shocks typically lasts longer and performs better, which can be a smarter long-term value despite the higher upfront cost.
Concluding: Budget flexibility helps absorb inevitable variables such as regional labor rates, vehicle-specific challenges, and optional upgrades like tires and wheels.
What to budget for in practice
For a practical budgeting plan, consider a typical scenario: a mid-range 2" suspension lift kit with reasonably good shocks, combined with a set of all-terrain tires and a front-end alignment.
- Parts: $500–$1,000 for the kit (if not including premium shocks).
- Shocks (if included in kit): often $0–$600 more, depending on brand.
- Labor: $250–$900 depending on hours at the shop’s rate.
- Alignment: $60–$100.
- Tires (optional upgrade): $600–$1,800 for a full set.
Concluding: A typical out-the-door price range, including parts, labor, and alignment (without tires), is roughly $1,000 to $2,000. Adding premium parts and tires often pushes the total toward $2,000–$3,000 or more depending on the vehicle and market.
Summary
Installing a 2-inch lift on a pickup or SUV is a multi-component project. Your total cost hinges on kit type, parts quality, labor rates, and whether you upgrade tires or wheels. For most buyers, expect about $1,000–$2,000 for parts, labor, and alignment, with higher-end setups and tires pushing the total toward $2,000–$3,000 or more. Planning ahead and getting itemized quotes from reputable shops will help you lock in a reliable price and avoid surprises.
Bottom line: do your homework, compare kit options and local labor costs, and factor in the tire/wheel upgrades you might want to maximize the benefits of a 2-inch lift.
Summary of key figures (quick reference)
- Typical installed price: $1,000–$2,000 (centered range)
- Parts only (varies by kit): $50–$1,800+
- Labor: $80–$150 per hour; 3–9 hours common
- Alignment: $60–$100
- Tires/wheels: $600–$1,800+ for tires; wheels vary by style/size
