How to Choose the Right Lift Kit for Your Toyota Tacoma

There's something undeniably appealing about a lifted Tacoma. That aggressive stance, improved ground clearance, and ability to fit larger tires transform both the look and capability of your truck. But choosing the right kit involves more than just picking a height and handing over your credit card.

We’ve installed, tested, and lived with numerous lift kits on our personal and our customers’ Tacomas over the years. I've learned that the perfect lift kit depends entirely on how you use your truck, not just how you want it to look on Instagram.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing a Tacoma lift kit that matches your specific needs, driving style, and budget.

Key Takeaways

• Define your goals before shopping - aesthetic improvements, off-road performance, and/or tire clearance
• Most Toyota Tacoma owners find the sweet spot between 2-3 inches of lift for best all-around performance
• Quality suspension lift kits outperform budget options in ride quality, durability, and long-term value
• Professional installation is recommended for most suspension lifts to ensure proper alignment and safety
• Consider long-term costs, including potential wear on other components, when choosing lift height

Know Your Goals: Why Do You Want a Lift Kit?

Before diving into specific kits, you need to be brutally honest about why you want to lift your Tacoma. Different goals require different approaches. Afterall, any top Tacoma Accessory should be well thought out and increase the functionality of your rig.

Appearance Improvement: If you simply want your Tacoma to stand taller with a more aggressive stance, a leveling kit or modest 2" lift might be all you need. These provide the aesthetic benefits without dramatically changing your truck's handling or requiring extensive modifications.

Increased Ground Clearance for Off-Roading: Serious trail riding demands more than just height - you need proper suspension articulation, quality components, and a balanced approach. A proper suspension lift with upgraded shocks and control arms will serve you better than simply maxing out height.

Fitting Larger Tires: Many Tacoma owners decide on a lift primarily to fit bigger rubber. Remember that each inch of lift generally allows for about 2 inches of additional tire diameter. A 2-3" lift typically allows for 33" tires, which hits the sweet spot for most users.

Payload and Towing Enhancement: If you regularly carry heavy loads or tow, specialized kits with upgraded leaf springs and load-rated shocks will provide better performance than standard kits.

"A ton of people want that monster truck look, so they typically look into ridiculous 6” lifts. But believe me, almost nobody will consider a 6” lift after experiencing the compromises in daily driving, fuel economy, and garage clearance. Be realistic with your actual needs.”

Types of Lift Kits Available for Toyota Tacomas

There are three main categories of lift kits for Tacomas, each with distinct advantages and limitations:

Leveling Kits

Leveling kits are the simplest and most affordable option, designed to raise just the front of your Tacoma to match the naturally higher rear height (which Toyota designs in to accommodate heavy loads).

Pros:

• • Most affordable option ($100-300)
  • Simple installation, often DIY-friendly
  • Minimal impact on ride quality and handling
  • Perfect for fitting slightly larger tires without dramatic changes

Cons:

• • Limited height increase (typically 1-2.5")
  • No improvement to suspension performance
  • May accelerate wear on factory components

Suspension Lift Kits

Suspension lifts replace or modify key suspension components to genuinely increase ground clearance and improve performance. These range from basic spring/shock replacements to comprehensive kits with new control arms, leaf packs, and more.

Pros:

• • True improvement in off-road capability
  • Better suspension articulation and performance
  • Proper geometry correction for improved handling
  • Available in various heights from 2" to 6+"

Cons:

• • More expensive ($500-5,000+)
  • Installation is more complex
  • May require additional modifications as height increases

Body Lift Kits

Body lifts use spacers to separate the body from the frame, increasing overall height without affecting the suspension. These are less common on Tacomas and trucks because they just simply are not a great option, but some setups use these with other lift kits to achieve maximum height. 

Pros:

• • Relatively affordable
  • No impact on suspension geometry
  • Can be combined with suspension lifts for additional height

Cons:

• • Does not improve ground clearance or off-road capability
  • Creates gaps between body and frame that require fill pieces
  • More complex installation than leveling kits
  • Limited availability for Tacomas

I generally don't recommend body lifts for Tacomas. The minimal cost savings compared to a quality leveling kit or basic suspension lift isn't worth the compromises in appearance and function. As a final nail in the coffin, you won’t get any benefits for off-roading and overlanding using body lifts.

Lift Heights: What Difference Does 2", 3", or 6" Make?

Lift height isn't just about looks - it fundamentally changes how your Tacoma performs in different situations:

1-2" Lift (Leveling Kits & Entry-Level Suspension Lifts)

• • Allows for tires up to 32-33" on most Tacomas
  • Minimal impact on handling and daily drivability
  • Little to no negative effect on fuel economy
  • Usually doesn't require additional modifications
  • Perfect for the daily driver that sees occasional off-road use

3-4" Lift (Mid-Range Suspension Lifts)

• • Accommodates 33-35" tires depending on backspacing
  • Noticeable improvement in off-road capability
  • Some impact on handling and steering feel
  • Typical fuel economy decrease of 1-2 MPG
  • May require minor modifications like differential drops
  • The "sweet spot" for most recreational off-roaders

5-6"+ Lift (Extreme Suspension Lifts)

• • Fits 35"+ tires with proper modifications
  • Dramatically altered handling characteristics like increased wheel travel
  • Significant impact on fuel economy (3+ MPG)
  • Requires extensive supporting modifications
  • May create legal issues in some states
  • Best for dedicated off-road builds or show trucks

I've found that 2-3" hits the sweet spot for most Tacoma owners. It provides meaningful off-road benefits without excessive compromise in daily driving. It's also one of the most cost-effective heights, as going taller quickly increases complexity and cost.

Budget Considerations

Like most truck modifications, lift kits follow the "you get what you pay for" principle. Here's a realistic breakdown of what different budget levels will get you:

Budget ($200-600)

• • Basic leveling kits
  • Entry-level suspension lifts with minimal components
  • Limited warranty coverage
  • Expect acceptable performance but potentially shorter lifespan

Mid-Range ($600-2,000)

• • Quality suspension lifts with matched components
  • Better ride quality and durability
  • Reputable brands with proper engineering
  • Good warranty coverage
  • The sweet spot for most recreational off-roaders

Premium ($2,000-5,000+)

• • Comprehensive kits with top-tier components
  • Often includes upgraded UCAs, LCAs, leaf packs, etc.
  • Superior ride quality and adjustability
  • Promotes maximum performance off-road
  • Professional-grade durability
  • Ideal for serious drivers who demand the best

While it's tempting to save money with budget options, consider the total cost of ownership. Cheaper kits often lead to accelerated wear on other components, poor ride quality, and eventual replacement. 

Investing in a quality mid-range kit from the start typically costs less in the long run than upgrading a budget kit piece by piece. As they say, “buy once, cry once.”

Compatibility: Know Your Toyota Tacoma's Model

Toyota Tacomas have evolved significantly across generations, and lift kits are not universal, but here’s what you need to know across different generations of Tacomas:

1st Gen Toyota Tacoma (1995-2004)

• • More traditional truck suspension design
  • Simpler to lift, with fewer electronic systems to consider
  • Wide variety of options still available

2nd Gen Toyota Tacoma (2005-2015)

• • Introduced more sophisticated suspension geometry
  • Extremely popular for modifications with countless lift options

3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma (2016-2023)

• • More complex electronic systems, including TSS (Toyota Safety Sense)
  • May require sensor recalibration after lifting
  • Different front suspension design requires specific kits

4th Gen Toyota Tacoma (2024+)

• • Newest/ generation with limited lift options currently available
  • Many traditional lift approaches being redesigned for new platform
  • Consider only kits specifically designed for 2024+ models

Always verify that a lift kit is designed specifically for your Tacoma's exact year, model, and trim level. Also consider if you already have a TRD Sport or a TRD Off-Road trim which can have unique components. Using the wrong kit can lead to poor performance, accelerated wear, and potential safety issues.

Installation: DIY or Professional Help?

Installation complexity varies dramatically by kit type:

Leveling Kits

• • Typically DIY-friendly with basic tools and mechanical knowledge
  • Some kits require spring compression, which can be dangerous without proper tools
  • Plan for 3-5 hours for your first installation
  • Don't forget alignment afterward!

Basic Suspension Lifts

• • More challenging but possible for experienced DIYers
  • Requires more specialized tools and equipment
  • Plan for a full weekend of work
  • Professional alignment absolutely necessary

Comprehensive Suspension Lifts

• • Professional installation strongly recommended
  • Requires specialized knowledge and equipment
  • Proper setup critical for performance and safety
  • May require custom fabrication or modification

While DIY installation can save money, improper installation can lead to dangerous handling issues, accelerated wear, and poor performance. For anything beyond a basic leveling kit, I recommend professional installation by a shop experienced with Tacoma suspensions so you can get maximum performance out of your lift kit.

Expect to pay $500-1,000 for professional installation depending on kit complexity. This typically includes alignment, which is absolutely essential after any suspension modification.

Top Brands to Consider

Westcott Designs

Westcott Designs has built a reputation for its clever engineering and premium quality. Their Tacoma Preload Collar Lift Kit represents a fresh approach to leveling that maintains proper suspension function and wheel travel rather than just adding spacers.

This kit is ideal for those wanting a modest lift with minimal compromise. It works particularly well on the new 2024+ Tacoma platform, where traditional spacer leveling kits can disrupt the more sophisticated suspension design.

ICON Vehicle Dynamics

ICON sits solidly in the premium category, offering exceptional engineering and performance for serious drivers. Their Tacoma Stage 1 System provides a comprehensive approach to lifting your Tacoma, with carefully matched components designed to work together as a system.

What sets ICON apart is its vehicle-specific tuning and rigorous testing. Their kits typically offer superior ride quality both on and off-road compared to less expensive alternatives. They're not cheap, but the performance difference is immediately noticeable.

FOX

FOX has translated their racing heritage into exceptional performance products for Tacomas. The Tacoma FOX 2.0 Performance Series IFP Coilover represents their entry-level offering, but still delivers superior damping and heat management compared to most standard shocks.

FOX shocks are particularly well-suited for Tacoma owners who drive aggressively off-road, as their racing background translates to exceptional performance at higher speeds over rough terrain.

King

King represents the pinnacle of off-road suspension technology, with their Tacoma 2.5 Remote Reservoir Coilover Kit offering unmatched performance and adjustability (I also think they’re one of the best-looking kits too). These coilovers feature remote reservoirs for increased oil capacity and better heat dissipation, critical for extended off-road use.

The compression and rebound adjustability allows you to fine-tune your suspension for different conditions, from high-speed desert running to technical rock crawling. They're a significant investment but deliver performance that other brands simply can't match.

Old Man Emu

ARB's Old Man Emu (OME) line has long been respected for its exceptional value and real-world performance. The Tacoma OME MT64 Lift Kit offers a well-engineered complete suspension system at a more accessible price point than some premium brands.

What makes OME particularly appealing is their load-specific spring rates. They offer different spring options based on how much additional weight you carry (from winches and bumpers to camping gear), ensuring proper ride height and performance regardless of your setup.

ReadyLIFT

ReadyLIFT has established itself as a go-to option for Tacoma owners seeking quality lift solutions at midrange prices. Their "Smart Suspension Technology" or SST lift kits provide practical height increases while maintaining as much factory ride quality as possible.

What I particularly appreciate about ReadyLIFT is their practical approach. Their designs focus on providing just enough lift for larger tires without requiring extensive additional modifications. They're ideal for daily drivers that see occasional off-road use, offering a lifted stance with minimal compromise in everyday drivability.

Rough Country

Rough Country has built a strong reputation as a value-oriented lift kit provider, offering some of the most affordable complete lift solutions for Tacomas. Their kits typically include everything needed for installation at price points that make lifting accessible to more truck owners.

Their N3 shock technology offers a significant improvement in comfort and drivability over stock components, and their lifetime replacement warranty adds substantial value. For budget-conscious Tacoma owners who want the lifted look and some off-road capability without breaking the bank, Rough Country delivers an excellent price-to-performance ratio.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Tacoma Lift Kit

After helping hundreds of Tacoma owners select lift kits, here are my most valuable pieces of advice:

1. Be honest about your actual usage. A modest lift that works for your daily commute AND weekend trails is better than an extreme lift that excels off-road but makes daily driving miserable. Also consider the total weight of your setup, especially if you’re not done with your build yet.
2. Consider the total cost, not just the kit price. Factor in installation, alignment, potential additional modifications, and long-term maintenance.
3. Start with quality shocks. If the budget is tight, prioritize quality shocks over lift height. Good dampers make more difference in performance than an extra inch of height.
4. Don't ignore the rear. Many budget lifts focus on front components, but proper rear suspension is crucial for balanced performance, especially when carrying loads.
5. Plan for maintenance. Quality lift components typically require service after 30,000-50,000 miles. Budget for rebuilds or replacements as part of your ownership costs.
6. Consider your climate. Extreme environments (salt in winter states, desert heat, etc.) can significantly impact component lifespan. Choose materials and designs accordingly.

The right lift kit transforms not just how your Tacoma looks, but how it performs in the environments you actually drive in. By focusing on your specific needs rather than maximum height or minimum cost, you'll end up with a setup that enhances your ownership experience for years to come.

At Truck Brigade, we've helped countless Tacoma owners find their perfect lift solution. Whether you're just starting your build or looking to upgrade an existing setup, feel free to reach out! Our team has the hands-on experience to guide you toward the best options for your specific needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will lifting my Tacoma void the warranty? 

Modifying your suspension can potentially affect warranty coverage for related components, but cannot void your entire vehicle warranty thanks to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. Toyota may deny warranty claims for parts that failed specifically due to your modifications, but must cover unrelated issues.

What is the best height to lift a Toyota Tacoma?

For most Tacoma owners, 2-3 inches provides the ideal balance of improved capability, tire clearance, and daily drivability. This height allows for 33" tires on most models without requiring extensive modifications to other components, while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics and fuel economy.

Is lifting a Tacoma worth it?

Absolutely, if you have specific needs a lift addresses. A quality lift improves off-road capability, allows for larger tires, and enhances the truck's appearance. However, it's only "worth it" if you choose a lift that matches your actual driving habits and don't compromise too much on-road comfort for off-road capability you rarely use.

How much does it cost to get a Tacoma lifted?

Complete costs range from $300-500 for a basic leveling kit (DIY installation) to $5,000+ for a premium suspension system with professional installation. Most quality mid-range suspension lifts with professional installation fall between $1,500-3,000 total. Remember to budget for an alignment and potentially larger tires as well.