8 Best Lift Kits for Ram 2500 You’ll Want Now
The best lift kit for lifted Ram 2500 depends on your needs. The Rough Country 2.5″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks for 2014-2024 Ram 2500 is best for newer trucks seeking a balanced lift with premium shocks, while the Rough Country 1.75″ Leveling Coil Spring Kit excels at budget-conscious owners wanting simple installation. For maximum ground clearance on older models, the Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit for 2003-2007 Dodge Ram stands out with aggressive capability.
Whether you’re tackling rough terrain or just want your Ram to look more aggressive, a quality lift kit makes all the difference. We’ve tested and reviewed eight top-rated options to help you find the perfect fit for your truck and budget.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Lift Height | Vehicle Year Range | Shock Type | Installation | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RC 3″ Lift (03-13 Diesel) | 3 inches | 2003-2013 | N3 Shocks | Professional | Lifetime |
| RC 2.5″ Lift (14-24) | 2.5 inches | 2014-2024 | N3 Shocks | Professional | Lifetime |
| RC 2″ Leveling (03-12) | 2 inches | 2003-2012 | None | Bolt-On | Lifetime |
| RC 2.5″ Leveling (14-24) | 2.5 inches | 2014-2024 | N3 Shocks | Bolt-On | Lifetime |
| RC 3″ Lift M1 (03-13) | 3 inches | 2003-2013 | M1 Monotube | Professional | Lifetime |
| RC 1.75″ Coil Spring (14-25) | 1.75 inches | 2014-2025 | None | Bolt-On | Lifetime |
| Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 | Variable | 2014-2026 | Air Springs | Professional | Lifetime |
| RC 5″ Lift (03-07) | 5 inches | 2003-2007 | N3 Shocks | Professional | Lifetime |
1. Rough Country 2.5″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks for 2014-2024 Ram 2500 – Best Overall for Modern Trucks
Best for: Owners of newer Ram 2500s who want a balanced lift with premium performance shocks included.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Height | 2.5 inches front and rear |
| Shock Absorbers | Premium N3 performance shocks |
| Ride Quality | Maintains smooth, OEM-like feel |
| Installation | Professional recommended |
| Precision Engineering | Laser-cut materials in CAD |
The Rough Country 2.5″ Lift Kit is the best choice for modern Ram 2500 owners seeking a perfect balance of lift and comfort. The included N3 shock absorbers deliver excellent performance both on-road and off-road without sacrificing ride quality. Installation is straightforward for professionals, and the precision laser-cut components ensure perfect fitment every time. You’ll get unmatched ground clearance while maintaining the smooth ride you expect from your truck. Rough Country backs this kit with their legendary lifetime replacement warranty, giving you complete peace of mind.
Pros:
- Premium N3 shocks included
- Perfect for 2014-2024 models
- Levels front with rear
- Lifetime warranty coverage
Cons:
- Professional installation recommended
- Mid-range lift height
2. Rough Country 1.75″ Leveling Coil Spring Kit for Ram 2500 (2014-2025) – Best Budget Option
Best for: Budget-conscious owners wanting a simple bolt-on lift that clears 33-inch tires.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Height | 1.75 inches front lift |
| Tire Clearance | Fits 33×12.50 tires |
| Installation | Bolt-on, no cutting needed |
| Coil Springs | Heavy-duty engineered |
| Ride Quality | Factory-like comfort |
The Rough Country 1.75″ Leveling Coil Spring Kit offers the most affordable way to lift your Ram 2500 without breaking the bank. This bolt-on kit requires no cutting or major modifications, making it perfect for DIY installation or quick professional work. The precision-fit coil springs maintain your truck’s smooth ride while giving you the aggressive stance you want. You’ll gain enough clearance for 33-inch tires with factory wheel backspacing, and the kit includes all necessary hardware. It’s an excellent entry-level lift for owners who want results without the premium price tag.
Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Clears 33-inch tires
- No cutting required
Cons:
- Minimal lift height
- No shocks included
3. Rough Country 3″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks for 2003-2013 Ram 2500/3500 Diesel – Best for Older Models
Best for: Owners of older diesel Ram 2500/3500 trucks seeking substantial ground clearance and premium shocks.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Height | 3 inches front and rear |
| Shock Absorbers | Premium N3 shocks |
| Rear Blocks | Fabricated for durability |
| Vehicle Fit | 2003-2013 diesel models |
| Warranty | Lifetime replacement |
The Rough Country 3″ Lift Kit is purpose-built for older diesel Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks that need serious ground clearance. This kit delivers three inches of lift front and rear, paired with premium N3 shock absorbers for excellent off-road performance. The fabricated rear lift blocks are stronger and last longer than cast alternatives, ensuring your investment stands the test of time. The kit levels your truck perfectly and maintains a smooth, factory-like ride quality despite the aggressive lift. You’ll love the unmatched ground clearance and the confidence it gives you on any terrain.
Pros:
- 3 inches of substantial lift
- Premium N3 shocks included
- Fabricated rear blocks
- Perfect for older diesels
Cons:
- Only fits 2003-2013 models
- Professional installation needed
4. Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit for 2003-2007 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 – Best for Maximum Clearance
Best for: Serious off-roaders with older Rams who want maximum ground clearance and aggressive styling.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Height | 5 inches maximum clearance |
| Shock Absorbers | Premium N3 performance |
| Control Arms | Drop brackets included |
| Vehicle Fit | 2003-2007 models only |
| Warranty | Lifetime replacement |
The Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit is the ultimate choice for owners of 2003-2007 Rams who demand maximum ground clearance and aggressive looks. This extreme lift provides five inches of elevation, giving you unmatched capability for tackling rough terrain and obstacles. The kit includes premium N3 shock absorbers and control arm drop brackets that reduce control arm angles for improved ride quality. Despite the aggressive lift height, you’ll maintain smooth drivability thanks to Rough Country’s engineering expertise. This is the most extreme option available and will definitely turn heads wherever you go.
Pros:
- Maximum 5-inch lift
- Premium N3 shocks
- Control arm drop brackets
- Aggressive appearance
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Limited to 2003-2007 models
5. Rough Country 3″ Lift Kit with M1 Monotube Shocks for 2003-2013 Ram 2500/3500 – Best Premium Shocks
Best for: Diesel truck owners wanting the most advanced shock technology available with three inches of lift.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Height | 3 inches front and rear |
| Shock Technology | M1 monotube advanced |
| Performance | Best-in-class handling |
| Rear Blocks | Fabricated construction |
| Application | 2003-2013 diesel only |
The Rough Country 3″ Lift Kit with M1 Monotube Shocks represents the premium option for older diesel Ram owners who want the absolute best in shock technology. M1 monotube shocks deliver superior performance compared to standard N3 shocks, offering better heat dissipation and more responsive handling. You’ll get three inches of lift paired with fabricated rear lift blocks for exceptional durability and longevity. The monotube design provides unmatched performance both on-road and off-road, making this the choice for serious enthusiasts. This premium kit maintains the smooth, factory-like ride quality Rough Country is known for.
Pros:
- M1 monotube shocks
- Superior heat dissipation
- Fabricated rear blocks
- Premium performance
Cons:
- Premium pricing
- Limited model compatibility
6. Rough Country 2″ Leveling Kit for 2003-2012 Ram 2500/3500 – Best for Older Trucks on Budget
Best for: Budget-minded owners of older Ram trucks who want a simple, affordable leveling solution.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Height | 2 inches front only |
| Installation | Bolt-on design |
| Vehicle Fit | 2003-2012 models |
| Ride Quality | Smooth factory-like |
| Warranty | Lifetime replacement |
The Rough Country 2″ Leveling Kit is the affordable solution for owners of older Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks seeking a simple lift. This bolt-on kit provides two inches of front lift to level your truck with the rear, creating an aggressive stance without major modifications. Installation is straightforward and can be done at home with basic tools, saving you money on professional labor. The kit maintains smooth, factory-like ride quality while increasing ground clearance for better off-road capability. It’s backed by Rough Country’s lifetime warranty, making it an excellent value for the price.
Pros:
- Most affordable kit
- Easy bolt-on installation
- Levels front with rear
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Minimal lift height
- Older model compatibility
7. Rough Country 2.5″ Leveling Kit for 2014-2024 Ram 2500/3500 – Best Balanced Leveling
Best for: Modern Ram owners wanting a balanced leveling solution with premium shocks at mid-range pricing.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Height | 2.5 inches front |
| Shock Absorbers | Premium N3 included |
| Spring Design | Durable coil spacers |
| Installation | Bolt-on home friendly |
| Warranty | Lifetime replacement |
The Rough Country 2.5″ Leveling Kit for modern Rams combines the convenience of bolt-on installation with premium N3 shock absorbers. This kit provides 2.5 inches of front lift to level your truck perfectly, creating an aggressive yet balanced appearance. The durable coil spring spacers are designed to match factory geometry, ensuring smooth ride quality and proper handling characteristics. Installation is straightforward enough for home DIY or quick professional work, saving you installation costs. You’ll get a complete leveling solution with excellent performance at a reasonable price point.
Pros:
- 2.5-inch balanced lift
- N3 shocks included
- Bolt-on installation
- Factory geometry matched
Cons:
- Limited to 2014-2024 models
- Mid-range lift height
8. Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 XL Ultimate Air Spring Kit for 2014-2026 Ram 2500 – Best for Towing and Hauling
Best for: Ram owners who frequently tow trailers or haul heavy loads and need load-leveling capability.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Load Capacity | Up to 7,500 pounds |
| Technology | Air spring suspension |
| Adjustability | Variable height control |
| Benefits | Eliminates squat and sway |
| Warranty | Lifetime plus 60-day trial |
The Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 XL is the specialized choice for Ram owners who regularly tow trailers or haul heavy cargo. This air spring system provides up to 7,500 pounds of load-leveling capacity, eliminating squat, trailer sway, and rough rides when loaded. The adjustable air suspension allows you to level your truck on demand, whether empty or fully loaded, giving you complete control. Installation includes all necessary brackets and hardware for a professional fit, and the system includes a 60-day ride satisfaction guarantee. This is the only option in our lineup specifically designed for serious towing and hauling applications.
Pros:
- 7,500-pound capacity
- Adjustable air suspension
- Eliminates squat and sway
- 60-day trial included
Cons:
- Premium pricing
- Not for off-roading
How to Choose the Best Lift Kit for Your Ram 2500
Consider Your Vehicle Year
Your Ram’s model year determines which kits will fit properly and perform optimally. Older models (2003-2013) have different suspension geometry than newer trucks (2014-2024), requiring specific kit designs.
Always check the product description to ensure compatibility with your exact year and engine type, especially if you have a diesel model.
Decide on Lift Height
Lift heights range from 1.75 inches for subtle leveling to 5 inches for extreme off-road capability. Consider what you’ll use your truck for and how aggressive you want the stance to be.
Remember that higher lifts may require additional modifications like extended brake lines or driveshaft adjustments, which increase installation costs.
Choose Between Leveling and Full Lifts
Leveling kits raise only the front to match the rear, while full lift kits raise both front and rear equally. Leveling kits are cheaper and easier to install, while full lifts provide more ground clearance.
If you primarily want an aggressive look and plan to haul or tow, a leveling kit is perfect. For serious off-roading, a full lift kit is the better choice.
Evaluate Shock Options
Some kits include premium shock absorbers (N3 or M1 monotube) while others don’t. Quality shocks dramatically improve ride comfort and handling both on and off-road.
If your kit doesn’t include shocks, budget extra money for aftermarket options to ensure your truck rides smoothly.
Factor in Installation Costs
Bolt-on kits can be installed at home or quickly by professionals, saving you money. Full lift kits typically require professional installation, which adds significant labor costs.
Budget $500-$1,500 for professional installation depending on the kit complexity and your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a lift kit affect my Ram’s warranty?
Most manufacturers will void your warranty if the lift kit causes damage. Rough Country kits are designed to work with your truck, but check with your dealer about specific concerns.
Can I install a lift kit myself?
Bolt-on leveling kits can be DIY projects for experienced mechanics, but full lift kits require professional installation due to suspension complexity and alignment needs.
Do lift kits affect fuel economy?
Yes, lifting your truck increases wind resistance and changes weight distribution, typically reducing fuel economy by 1-3 miles per gallon.
What size tires can I fit after lifting my Ram?
A 1.75″ lift typically clears 33-inch tires, while 2.5-3″ lifts can handle 35-inch tires. A 5″ lift accommodates 37-inch tires or larger with proper wheel backspacing.
How long do lift kits last?
Quality lift kits from Rough Country last 100,000+ miles with proper maintenance. Regular inspections and shock replacements as needed will extend their lifespan significantly.
Final Thoughts
The Rough Country 2.5″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks for 2014-2024 Ram 2500 is our top recommendation for most owners seeking the best balance of performance, price, and ease of installation.
When choosing your lift kit, prioritize your vehicle’s year, your intended use, and your budget. Don’t forget to factor in installation costs and potential tire upgrades to complete your build.
Whatever kit you choose, you’ll transform your Ram into a more capable and impressive-looking truck that turns heads everywhere you go.
