The Ford F-150 continues its legacy as a versatile full-size pickup, with many owners seeking to enhance its stance and capability through lift and leveling kits. These modifications not only transform the truck’s appearance but can also improve off-road performance, ground clearance, and tire fitment options. 

F-150 Suspension Geometry

Before discussing specific lift options, it’s important to understand the F-150 suspension design:

• Front Suspension: Independent double-wishbone with coil-over shocks
• Rear Suspension: Leaf spring with solid axle
• Factory Rake: Approximately 50-70mm higher in the rear than the front (varies by trim)

This factory rake maintains a level stance when carrying cargo or towing. Leveling kits specifically address this rake, while lift kits raise the entire vehicle.

Leveling Kits: Balancing the Stance

Leveling kits are the most straightforward modification for the F-150, designed to eliminate the factory rake:

Strut Extension Options

• Spacer Leveling Kits: These aluminum or polyurethane spacers install above the front struts, providing 25-50mm of front-end lift without altering ride quality significantly.
• Complete Strut Replacements: These kits replace the factory struts with taller units, maintaining factory ride characteristics while providing the leveled appearance.

Compatibility Across Trims

Most F-150 leveling kits work universally across XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited trims. However, specialized models require consideration:

• Tremor Models: Already feature a 25mm factory lift; standard leveling kits may create excessive front-end height
• Raptor Models: Utilize specialized suspension components requiring Raptor-specific leveling solutions
• PowerBoost Hybrid: The additional weight of the hybrid system affects ideal lift height and required spring rates

Moderate Lift Kits: Balanced Enhancement

For those seeking more significant elevation without extreme modification, moderate lift kits offer 50-75mm of additional height:

Component Inclusions

• Front strut extensions or replacements
• Rear block additions or leaf spring modifications
• Extended-length shock absorbers
• Driveline alignment corrections
• Brake line extensions

Performance Considerations

These moderate lifts typically maintain acceptable on-road manners while providing:

• Ability to fit tires up to 33-34 inches
• Improved approach and departure angles
• Retained payload and towing capacity (with proper components)
• Minimal impact on fuel economy (typically 0.5-1.0 L/100km increase)

Comprehensive Lift Systems: Maximum Elevation

For maximum off-road capability, comprehensive lift systems provide 100-150mm of additional height:

System Components

• Replacement front struts with significantly increased travel
• Rear leaf spring replacements or substantial add-a-leaf systems
• Heavy-duty shock absorbers with external reservoirs
• Redesigned upper control arms
• Extended sway bar links
• Carrier bearing drops for 4×4 models
• Differential drop brackets

Installation Complexity

These systems typically require:

• Professional installation with specialized equipment
• Wheel alignment post-installation
• Potential modifications to electronic systems (particularly for models with advanced driver assistance features)
• Speedometer recalibration for larger tire fitments

Model-Specific Considerations

F-150 XL/XLT/Lariat with 2.7L/3.3L/5.0L Engines

These models respond well to all lift heights with minimal complications. The lighter weight of these configurations means less stress on components after lifting.

F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid

The additional weight of the hybrid system requires specific spring rates. Some universal kits may create excessive sag over time, making PowerBoost-specific kits preferable.

F-150 Tremor

With factory off-road tuning, the Tremor benefits most from specialized lift systems designed to complement its existing capabilities rather than standard universal kits.

F-150 Limited and Platinum Models

These models often feature electronic suspension components that require specific interface solutions when installing lift kits to maintain functionality of adaptive features.

Impact on Vehicle Systems

Electronic Impacts

Modern F-150 models feature sophisticated electronic systems affected by lifting:

• Forward-facing cameras require recalibration after height changes
• Adaptive cruise control sensors need professional adjustment
• Automatic headlight leveling systems require reprogramming

Mechanical Considerations

• Drivetrain angles change with lift height, potentially affecting wear patterns
• Brake line length becomes critical with substantial lifts
• Steering geometry changes may affect handling characteristics

Tire and Wheel Compatibility

With increased clearance comes the ability to fit larger tires:

• Leveling (25-50mm): Accommodates up to 33″ tires
• Moderate lift (50-75mm): Supports 33-35″ tires
• Comprehensive lift (100-150mm): Allows 35-37″ tires

Proper backspacing and offset are critical when selecting wheels for lifted applications to prevent rubbing issues during articulation.

Upgrade Your F-150 With Lift and Leveling Kits

Lift and leveling kits offer F-150 owners the ability to customize their trucks for improved capability and distinctive aesthetics. From simple spacer leveling kits to comprehensive suspension overhauls, the F-150 platform provides excellent flexibility for elevation modifications. With proper selection and installation, these upgrades can enhance the already impressive versatility while maintaining reasonable daily driveability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will installing a lift kit on my Ford F-150 void the warranty?

• Lifting your truck doesn’t automatically void the entire warranty. However, if a failure occurs and the dealer can demonstrate that the aftermarket modification caused it, that specific repair may not be covered. Most powertrain components remain under warranty unless directly damaged by improper lift installation.

What is the difference between a leveling kit and a lift kit for the F-150?

• A leveling kit raises only the front of the truck (typically 25-50mm) to eliminate the factory rake, creating a level stance. A lift kit raises the entire vehicle evenly, with heights ranging from 50mm to 150mm or more, and includes comprehensive suspension modifications.

How does lifting my F-150 affect its fuel economy?

• Fuel economy typically decreases after lifting due to increased aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance from larger tires. Expect a reduction of approximately 0.5-1.0 L/100km with moderate lifts (50-75mm) and 1.0-2.0 L/100km with larger lifts (100mm+) and aggressive tires.

Can I install a leveling kit on my F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid?

• Yes, but the PowerBoost requires specialized kits designed to accommodate its additional weight. Standard leveling kits may create excessive sag or affect the hybrid system’s cooling components. Always select products specifically tested for PowerBoost compatibility.

What is the largest tire size I can fit on a leveled F-150?

• With a standard 50mm leveling kit, most models can accommodate 33-inch tires without rubbing. Some minor trimming of plastic valances may be necessary during full articulation or at full steering lock.

Do I need to recalibrate any electronic systems after lifting my F-150?

• Yes, several electronic systems require recalibration after changing ride height, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic headlight leveling, and 360-degree cameras. Professional recalibration is highly recommended to maintain these safety features.

How does lifting affect the F-150 towing capacity?

• Properly engineered lift kits maintain factory towing capacity. However, the raised center of gravity affects handling dynamics when towing. For frequent heavy towing, limiting lift height to 50-75mm and investing in upgraded rear suspension components is advisable.

Are there special considerations for lifting the F-150 Tremor?

• This trim comes with a factory 25mm lift and off-road tuned suspension. Additional lifting requires Tremor-specific components that complement its unique shock valving and spring rates. Standard lift kits may compromise its specialized off-road performance characteristics.

Will my F-150 electronic 4×4 system work properly after installing a lift kit?

• Yes, the electronic 4×4 system will function normally after lifting. However, with lifts exceeding 75mm, transfer case drop brackets are recommended to maintain proper driveline angles and prevent vibration or premature wear of drivetrain components.

How much additional ground clearance will a 75mm lift kit provide on my F-150?

• While the suspension is raised 75mm, actual ground clearance typically increases by 50-65mm. The difference occurs because the lowest points on the vehicle (differential, crossmembers, etc.) don’t all rise by the full lift amount due to suspension geometry. Specific increases vary by configuration and kit design.