Professional vs. DIY: How Much Does It Really Cost to Lift a Truck?

If you own a truck, you may wonder whether to hire a professional or tackle a do-it-yourself (DIY) project when lifting your vehicle. Lifting a truck can give it an enhanced look, better off-road capabilities, and improved ground clearance. So how much does lifting a vehicle cost, and what are the benefits and drawbacks of using a professional lifter vs. doing it yourself?

Professional lifting services are typically more expensive but benefit from an expert handling the installation process. On the other hand, DIY projects give you the satisfaction of finishing a project on your own, but they take more time, work, and research. In this post, we'll compare the prices and benefits of professional vs. do-it-yourself truck lifting to help you make an educated choice for your needs.

Factors that Affect the Cost

When lifting a truck, several factors can affect the overall cost. These include the type of lift kit you choose, the model of your truck, installation fees, and any additional expenses it may require.

Type of Lift Kit

The type of lift kit you choose can significantly impact the overall cost of lifting your truck. Several lift kits are available, including body lift kits, suspension lift kits, and leveling kits. Body lift kits are the least expensive, typically costing between $150 and $500, while lift suspension kits range from $1,000 to $5,000. Leveling kits are the least expensive, costing between $50 and $300, but they only raise the front of the truck.

Truck Model

The model of your truck can also affect the cost of lifting it. Some trucks require more expensive lift kits or more extensive installation processes. Also, some trucks might need more changes or adjustments to fit the lift kit, adding to the overall cost.

Installation Fees

Whether you hire a professional or do it yourself, there will be installation costs when you lift your truck. If you choose to hire a professional, it will include the installation fees in the overall cost of the service. However, if you choose to tackle the project yourself, you must factor in the cost of any tools or equipment you may need to purchase or rent.

Additional Expenses

Lifting your truck may cost you more than just the lift kit and installation labor. These may include new tires or wheels, modifications to the steering or suspension systems, and any necessary adjustments to the brakes or drivetrain.

Cost of Professional Truck Lifting

While lifting your truck yourself may seem like a way to save money, it's important to consider the cost and benefits of hiring a professional service to do the job. Here's a closer look at the cost of professional truck lifting:

Average Cost of a Professional Lift Kit Installation

The cost of a professional lift kit installation can vary depending on the type of lift kit and the service you choose. For a professional installation, you should budget between $800 and $2,500 on average. However, the cost may be higher for more complex installations or certain truck models.

Comparison of Prices Between Various Professional Services

When choosing a professional service to lift your truck, shopping around and comparing prices is important. Costs can differ based on the service, the area, and the caliber of the work. To get the best price, it's best to get quotes from several different services and compare them carefully.

Benefits of Professional Truck Lifting

While lifting your truck yourself may seem like a way to save money, there are several benefits to hiring a professional service to do the job. Professional services have the knowledge and skills to ensure the lift is done right and safely. They also have the tools and equipment to complete the job efficiently and quickly.

Additionally, professional services typically offer warranties and guarantees on their work, giving you peace of mind and protection if something goes wrong.

Cost of DIY Truck Lifting

If you're considering lifting your truck, you might have thought of doing the job yourself. Here's a closer look at the cost of DIY truck lifting:

Average Cost of a DIY Lift Kit

The cost of a DIY lift kit can vary depending on the kit type and the parts' quality. You can expect to pay between $300 and $1,500 for a DIY kit. However, this cost does not include any tools or equipment you may need to purchase to complete the job.

Comparison of Prices Between Different DIY Kits

When choosing a DIY lift kit, shopping around and comparing prices is important. Prices can vary depending on the kit type, the parts' quality, and the brand. Reading reviews and comparing prices carefully is a good idea to find the best deal.

Benefits and Drawbacks of DIY Truck Lifting

The biggest benefit of DIY truck lifting is potential savings. However, there can be drawbacks. Lifting your truck requires a significant amount of mechanical knowledge and expertise. If you don't have experience working on vehicles, attempting a DIY lift could be dangerous.

Furthermore, DIY lifts typically do not come with any warranties or guarantees, leaving you responsible for any issues that may arise.

Let’s Wrap It Up

In conclusion, lifting a truck can greatly enhance its performance, appearance, and off-road capabilities. When considering whether to opt for professional or DIY lifting, it's important to factor in the cost of the lift kit, installation fees, and any additional expenses.

DIY lifting may seem cheaper but it requires much mechanical knowledge and could lead to extra costs and risks. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your budget, skill level, and goals for your truck. Before deciding, consider the pros and cons carefully and talk to a trusted mechanic or a professional truck-lifting service.

 

 

 

About The Author

Aaron Lierman is the Content Marketing Manager for Switch Suspension. A writer with a passion for auto parts. He combines his expertise in the automotive industry with his love for writing to create informative and engaging content for his readers.