Lift Kits

Lift Kits - What You Need to Know

Installing an aftermarket suspension on your SUV or 4WD is one of the most popular modifications for enhancing off-road capabilities. While these vehicles are robust, a lift kit provides essential assistance in traversing steep hills, rocky trails, or towing caravans.

But what exactly are lift kits, and when might you need one? This guide covers everything you need to know, including their benefits, legal considerations, and more.

What are Lift Kits?

If you've spent some time around SUVs or 4WD, you've likely heard about lift kits. But what are they?

A Lift Kit is all the necessary parts needed to raise your vehicle's height, giving more ground clearance and off-road performance to enable the vehicle to tackle any challenging terrain.

Advantages of Lift Kits

A Lift Kit alters your vehicle's suspension, raising various components to increase ground clearance. This enhancement improves off-road performance by enhancing approach and departure angles. Other benefits include better clearance for larger wheels and or tyres, as well as reducing the risk of bottoming out on steep declines.

Do you need a Lift Kit?

Before purchasing a lift kit, consulting one of our knowledgeable JAX Tyres & Auto team members is essential. They can assist in selecting the right kit tailored to your needs, ensuring enhancement for lift, comfort, and handling. Even if you are customising your vehicle primarily for off-road use, maintaining on-road drivability remains crucial.

Legal Considerations

When choosing a Lift Kit, understanding the legalities in your state is key. You are responsible* for ensuring your vehicle meets safety standards on and off the road. Suspension lift regulations vary by state, summarised below:

NSW: Maximum 75mm lift (25mm from tyres, 50mm from suspension). Exceeding 75mm requires -engineer certification.
QLD: Maximum 50mm lift without certification. 50-75mm lifts require certification.
VIC: Maximum 50mm lift without approval. Exceeding this may require VicRoads engineer approval.
WA: Maximum 50mm lift without certification. Exceeding 50mm requires engineer certification.
SA: Maximum 50mm lift without certification. Exceeding 50mm requires engineer certification.
TAS: Maximum 50mm lift. Exceeding requires licensed certifier approval.
NT: Maximum 100mm lift without certification. Exceeding requires TAC assessment and certification.

* Disclaimer: This information is provided a general guide and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to verify current legislation with your local transport authority.

Other Related Services at JAX Tyres & Auto

JAX Tyres & Auto offer a variety of related vehicle servicing options perfect for the 4X4 enthusiast.

Vehicle Suspension Check

After you install a lift kit, you’ll need to make sure it's maintained properly. You can easily do this by scheduling a suspension check at least every six months and straight after you've had it installed.

When it comes to getting kitted out, it always pays to speak to your local JAX Tyre & Auto store to discuss your specific needs.

Vehicle Suspension Repair

Suspension damage comes in various forms, including general wear and tear, corrosion, impact damage, or collapse. It's not always obvious or apparent when there is damage that could cause issues around safety and performance.

It's crucial to have regular checks to ensure safety and performance.

Signs that your suspension isn’t working as it should include:

The vehicle feels rough to drive
The vehicle feels like its drifting or pulling when you make turns
You experience a bouncing feeling when driving
The vehicle is making unusual noises
The vehicle nose dives when you brake

Wheel Alignment Service

After a lift kit is fitted on your vehicle, it is remmended a Wheel Alignment be done to the vehicle to correct any misalignment. Misaligned suspension can cause issues with fuel efficiency, increased tyre wear, and impact on safety and handling.

Check out Vehicle Servicing & Repair Options or Find a JAX Tyres & Auto Store near you for more details.

So, how much does it cost to lift a 4WD?

The cost of a lift kit is dependent on the type, the level of lift you want and the make and model of your vehicle. JAX Tyres & Auto, in partnership with Tough Dog suspension products, provide the ability to create a tailored suspension package that can transform your car, regardless of how you use it. Each lift kit is fitted to suit your specific vehicle and model. For any cost inquiries, call your local JAX Tyres & Auto.

Should I lift my 4x4?

Getting a lift for your 4WD is dependent on what you want to do. Before you purchase a lift kit, you should consider making sure you get the right balance of lift, comfort, and handling.

Some primary considerations are:

Your vehicles factory suspension specifications and set-up.
Vehicle use. Whether basic off-road recreation, haulage or towing, or more extreme offroading.
How much lift you need: For example, a 4WD that’s regularly loaded-up may require a 3-inch lift and 2-inch lift front to level out.
The increase in tyre size you want will dictate the amount of lift it will require.

If you're considering a lift kit upgrade for your 4x4 or need more information, chat to your friendly local JAX Tyres for help.

Are lift kits legal in Australia?

Lift kits are legal in Australia. However, they're limited by the height they are allowed to be altered to, which depends on the individual state you live in. For information about your specific state, see the earlier section in our article for more details.