How expensive is it to raise a car?

Expect anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on how much lift you want and the vehicle you drive: basic leveling or spacer kits often run $150–$400 for parts plus $200–$600 labor; 1–3 inch body lifts typically cost $300–$1,000 in parts plus $500–$1,500 labor; 2–6 inch suspension lifts range from $700–$5,000+ in parts plus $600–$2,500 labor; and premium long‑travel or air‑suspension systems can reach $3,000–$15,000+. Most drivers land between $400–$1,500 for modest lifts on crossovers and $1,000–$4,000 for trucks/SUVs, before optional tires and gearing. If you meant briefly “raising” a car on a jack for service, that’s effectively free at home and roughly $20–$100 at a shop, but the rest of this guide focuses on lift modifications.

What “raise” actually means

Raising a car can be done in a few ways, each with different costs, complexity and outcomes. A leveling kit evens out front rake on trucks/SUVs. A body lift spaces the body higher on the frame for added tire clearance without altering suspension geometry. A suspension lift replaces springs, shocks, and often control arms to increase ride height and travel. Air suspension and adjustable coilovers add height adjustability and ride control at higher cost. The right choice depends on your terrain, tire goals, and budget.

Typical price ranges in 2025

The following breakdown summarizes current market prices (parts plus typical professional labor in the U.S.; costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop rates):

• Leveling kit (mainly trucks/SUVs, ~1–2 inches front): $150–$400 parts; $200–$500 labor; alignment $100–$200.
• Spacer lift for crossovers/cars (~1–1.5 inches): $150–$350 parts; $250–$600 labor; alignment $100–$200.
• Body lift (1–3 inches, body-on-frame): $300–$1,000 parts; $500–$1,500 labor; may need bumper/steering extensions.
• Moderate suspension lift (2–3 inches, IFS trucks/SUVs): $700–$2,500 parts; $600–$1,800 labor; alignment required.
• Taller suspension lift (4–6 inches, IFS): $1,800–$5,000+ parts; $1,200–$2,500 labor; more add-ons likely.
• Solid-axle kits (e.g., Wrangler, 4Runner solid rear): $600–$2,500 parts; $500–$1,800 labor; geometry fixes vary.
• Coilovers with adjustable height (quality brands): $1,200–$3,500 parts; $600–$1,200 labor; alignment and setup.
• Air suspension conversion or lift-capable air struts: $3,000–$8,000 parts; $1,000–$2,000 labor; ongoing maintenance.

These ranges capture most mainstream builds. Heavier trucks, premium components, corrosion, and custom fabrication push costs higher, while DIY can trim labor significantly.

Hidden or downstream costs you should budget

Beyond the core lift kit, several related expenses are common, especially when upsizing tires or altering driveline angles:

• Tires and wheels (plus mount/balance): $800–$2,500+ depending on size and brand.
• Re-gearing differentials after big tires: $1,200–$2,500 (4×4 costs more than 4×2).
• Driveshafts/CV axles or drop brackets: $300–$1,200+ if angles are extreme.
• Upper control arms (IFS) for alignment caster: $300–$900.
• Extended brake lines, sway-bar links, bump stops: $100–$400.
• Longer or upgraded shocks to match lift: $300–$1,200.
• Speedometer/TPMS/ADAS recalibration: $75–$250; advanced ADAS calibration $150–$400.
• Headlight aim adjustment and headlight leveling fixes: $25–$150.
• Four-wheel alignment (often twice: post-install and after settling): $100–$200 each time.
• Fuel and wear: reduced MPG and faster wear on steering/suspension/tires over time.
• Insurance and warranty considerations: some carriers raise premiums; some vehicle warranties limit coverage for modified components.

Not every build needs all of these, but planning for them prevents surprise overruns and ensures your lifted vehicle drives safely and predictably.

What drives the price up or down

The final bill depends on several variables beyond the parts box.

• Vehicle platform: IFS trucks tend to cost more than solid-axle rigs; crossovers can be cheaper but are more geometry-sensitive.
• Lift height: the last inch is the most expensive—more components and corrections are needed past ~3 inches.
• Quality/brand: entry-level kits are cheaper; premium dampers and arms add cost but improve ride and durability.
• Labor rates and complexity: shop rates commonly run $90–$200/hour; rust and seized hardware add hours.
• Tire size change: bigger tires can trigger gearing, brake, and clearance work.
• Regional rules: inspection, certification (e.g., TÜV/MOT), and legal bumper/headlight height limits can add steps.

Weigh these factors when comparing quotes; the lowest upfront price can become the highest total cost if it leads to rework or extra parts later.

DIY vs. professional installation

Doing it yourself can save hundreds to thousands, but it requires tools, space, and know-how.

• DIY savings: avoid labor charges; expect 4–12 hours for moderate kits, longer for complex setups.
• Tooling: quality jack/stands, torque wrenches, spring compressor, breaker bars; sometimes specialty pullers.
• Risks: incorrect torque or geometry can cause vibrations, premature wear, or safety issues.
• Still professional: you’ll need a professional alignment; some ADAS systems require shop calibration.

If you’re new to suspension work, consider having a shop handle at least the spring/compressor tasks and final alignment.

How long it takes

Time is money at the shop, and downtime matters if this is your daily driver.

• Leveling/spacer kits: 2–4 hours.
• Moderate suspension lifts (2–3 inches): 6–10 hours.
• Big IFS lifts (4–6 inches) or air systems: 10–20+ hours.
• Add-ons (gears, control arms, fabrication): +3–10 hours.

Most shops can schedule within a week or two and will request a return visit after 300–500 miles for bolt re-torque and a check alignment.

Legal and safety considerations

Lift laws vary widely. In the U.S., states may regulate bumper and headlight height and track width; in parts of Europe, modifications may require certification (e.g., TÜV) and inspection. Lifts can alter crash energy paths and camera/radar angles for ADAS. Always verify local regulations, notify your insurer, and have headlights re-aimed post-lift.

Real-world budget scenarios

These ballpark totals illustrate what owners commonly spend, including alignment but excluding taxes and major extras unless noted.

• Compact crossover (+1 inch spacers, stock tires): $450–$900 installed.
• Midsize truck/SUV (2–2.5 inch front leveling, mild rear): $800–$1,700 installed.
• Jeep Wrangler/solid-axle 2–2.5 inch lift with shocks: $1,200–$2,500 installed; +$1,200–$2,200 for 33–35 inch tire package.
• IFS truck 4–6 inch premium kit with wheels/35s: $4,000–$8,500 installed; +$1,200–$2,500 if re-gearing needed.
• Air suspension or high-end coilover build (adjustable): $3,500–$10,000+ installed, vehicle-dependent.

Your final total hinges on tire choice and whether geometry corrections (gears, arms, driveshaft) are required for drivability.

How to control costs without regret

Smart planning can keep the project within budget while preserving safety and comfort.

• Pick the smallest lift that clears the tires you want; body or spacer lifts are the cheapest clearance per dollar.
• Buy complete, vehicle-specific kits to avoid piecemeal add-ons later.
• Compare 2–3 shop quotes and ask for itemized parts/labor and alignment/ADAS fees.
• Bundle tires and alignment with the lift for package pricing; schedule a re-torque visit.
• Favor reputable brands and installers; poor damping or geometry costs more in the long run.
• Consider lightly used wheels/tires; avoid used safety-critical suspension parts unless inspected.

Keeping the lift modest and the parts matched reduces both upfront and lifetime costs while improving ride quality.

Summary

Raising a car can cost as little as a few hundred dollars for simple spacers or a leveling kit, to several thousand for full suspension, air, or long-travel setups—before optional tires, gears, and calibration. Budget for alignment, potential ADAS adjustments, and ancillary parts, and verify local laws and insurance implications. For most daily drivers, a modest 1–2.5 inch lift from a reputable kit and installer offers the best balance of price, safety, and performance.

How much is it to put a lift on your car?

On average, the cost of suspension lift kits in Australia ranges from $1,500 to $6,000, depending on the type of lift kit and the make and model of the vehicle. For example, the cost of a lift kit for a Toyota Hilux can range from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on your install requirements.

How much does it cost to have your vehicle lifted?

How much is it to lift a truck if a professional does it? Having a shop lift your truck can cost anywhere from $800 to $8,000. The reason the cost varies so much is that it depends on several factors such as whether a leveling or lift kit is used, what kind of setup you want, and what kind of truck you have.

How much does it cost to raise a car 1 inch?

A body lift kit only raises your frame by one to three inches and consists mainly of spacers between the frame and body of the vehicle. This kind of lift is cheaper than a suspension lift – usually only costing around $100 to $400 or so – but it doesn’t provide quite as much height as its counterpart.

How much does it cost to raise a vehicle?

Raising a vehicle can cost anywhere from under $100 for a very basic lift on a non-vehicle to $15,000 or more for a full suspension lift kit for a heavy-duty truck, plus potential installation costs. The total cost depends on the type of lift kit, the vehicle it’s for, and whether you pay for professional installation. 
Types of Lifts & Costs

• Leveling Kits: These are the most affordable, ranging from about $100 to $1,000 and are mainly for aesthetic purposes. 
• Body Lift Kits: These kits cost between $300 and $2,000 and raise the vehicle’s body off the frame. 
• Suspension Lift Kits: For increased off-road performance, these kits cost between $1,000 and $5,000 or more for basic to comprehensive setups. 

Factors Influencing Cost

• Vehicle Type: Lifting a full-size or heavy-duty truck is generally more expensive than lifting a mid-size or smaller vehicle due to different parts and labor. 
• Kit Brand & Quality: More established brands known for durability and reliability will cost more than generic brands. 
• Installation: Labor costs vary depending on the complexity of the lift. Some basic lifts can be installed by a DIYer, while more extensive projects are often best left to professional mechanics. 

Example Scenarios

• A basic 2-inch suspension lift for a full-size pickup can be around $1,200 for parts and $600 to $800 for installation, totaling roughly $2,000. 
• For a much larger lift of 6 inches or more, costs can escalate to $10,000 to $15,000 for the kit alone.