Will a tire shop install a leveling kit?
Yes—many tire shops will install a leveling kit, but it isn’t guaranteed. Availability depends on shop policy, your specific vehicle, and the kit type, and an alignment is typically required after installation.
Understanding leveling kits and why people install them
A leveling kit is a suspension modification that lifts the front end of a pickup or SUV to level it with the rear, creating a more aggressive stance and making room for larger tires. Kits range from simple spacers to more complex control-arm or torsion-bar solutions. Installing a leveling kit changes suspension geometry, which can affect ride quality, CV joints, steering response, and overall safety—and it can impact factory warranties.
Types of leveling kits
Here are the common options you’ll encounter when shopping for a leveling kit.
- Spacer-based leveling kits, using coil-spring or strut spacers to lift the front by a small to moderate amount.
- Torsion-bar leveling kits, using adjustable keys or crossmembers to raise the front by changing torsion-bar tension (typical on trucks with torsion-front suspensions).
- Upper-control-arm leveling kits, which replace or reposition control arms to restore proper alignment geometry after lifting.
- Hybrid kits, combining spacers with control arms or other components for greater lift and refined geometry.
Choosing a kit depends on your vehicle model, target height, ride comfort expectations, and tire/wheel clearance. Always verify compatibility with your exact year/make/model and follow manufacturer torque specs during install.
Will a tire shop install a leveling kit?
If you’re weighing whether to visit a shop for installation, consider the following factors before you commit to service.
- Shop policy on aftermarket suspension work, including whether leveling kits are approved for installation and under what conditions.
- Whether the shop carries or can source your chosen leveling kit brand and model, or if you must supply parts.
- Vehicle suitability: some models require additional components or have limited clearance with certain tires and wheels.
- Impact on warranty and insurance: factory warranties may be affected, and some aftermarket changes may not be covered.
- Requirement for an alignment after install and the expected cost/time involved.
- Labor and parts costs, potential need for additional components (extended bolts, driveshaft considerations), and any related services (wheel balancing, tire rotation).
- Safety considerations and potential long-term wear on suspension components, CV joints, steering, and braking.
In practice, many reputable tire shops that also offer lift or leveling services will perform the installation as long as the kit is compatible with your vehicle and the shop has the required equipment. If in doubt, confirm in writing the scope of work, warranty terms, and expected turnaround time.
A typical installation sequence
A leveling kit installation follows a standard workflow designed to restore alignment and ensure safe operation after the lift. Here is what you are likely to see.
- Vehicle is raised on a lift and securely supported; wheels are removed for inspection.
- Existing components are inspected for wear or damage and to verify kit compatibility.
- The leveling kit is installed, which may involve spacers, torsion-bar adjustments, or control-arm replacements depending on the kit type.
- Reassembly, torque checks on fasteners, and reinstallation of wheels.
- Initial road test to check for rubbing, noises, and steering response.
- Precise alignment is performed, including toe, camber, and caster adjustments, with a final check after a short break-in period.
Some shops may have variations depending on the kit and vehicle, but alignment after installation is almost always required to prevent unusual tire wear and handling issues.
Aftercare and long-term considerations
Once the leveling kit is installed, monitor the vehicle for changes in ride quality and noises, and follow recommended post-install checks. Key steps include:
- Schedule and complete an alignment after installation and recheck it after the first 500–1,000 miles (800–1,600 km).
- Keep an eye on CV joints, driveshaft angles, and steering components for unusual wear or noises.
- Re-torque wheels as recommended and maintain appropriate tire pressure for the new suspension geometry.
Final caution: not all vehicles respond the same way to leveling kits. Some setups may rub fenders with certain tire sizes or alter ride characteristics. Choosing a reputable installer and verifying kit compatibility are essential steps.
Summary
Across the market, many tire shops will install a leveling kit if the vehicle is compatible and the shop offers the service. Expect an alignment, consider warranty implications, and confirm costs and parts in advance. Doing your homework and selecting a shop with suspension experience helps ensure safe, reliable results.
