5 Best Lift Kits for Ram 1500 You’ll Love
The best lift kit for Ram 1500 depends on your needs. The Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit w/N3 Shocks (2019-2024) is best for budget-conscious buyers wanting solid performance, while the Rough Country 3″ Suspension Lift Kit (2012-2018) excels at eliminating factory rake for a cleaner stance. For older Ram models, the ReadyLift 4.0″ Front SST Kit stands out with maximum tire clearance and aggressive lift.
Each of these kits offers different benefits depending on your Ram’s year, drivetrain, and how you plan to use your truck. Keep reading to find the perfect lift kit for your specific needs.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Lift Height | Vehicle Years | Drivetrain | Shock Type | Warranty | Installation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rough Country 3.5″ (2019-2024) | 3.5 inches | 2019-2024 | 4WD | N3 Shocks | Lifetime | Bolt-on |
| Rough Country 4″ (2009-2018) | 4 inches | 2009-2018 | 2WD | N3 Shocks | Lifetime | Bolt-on |
| Rough Country 3″ (2012-2018) | 3 inches | 2012-2018 | 4WD | N3 Struts & Shocks | Lifetime | Bolt-on |
| Rough Country 3.5″ (2019-2024) | 3.5 inches | 2019-2024 | 4WD | N3 Struts & Shocks | Lifetime | Bolt-on |
| ReadyLift 4.0″ SST Kit | 4″ front / 2″ rear | 2009-2017 | 4WD | Tubular Control Arms | Standard | Bolt-on |
1. Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit w/N3 Shocks for 2019-2024 Ram 1500 4WD – Best Budget Option
Best for: Ram owners who want a quality lift kit without spending too much money.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Amount | 3.5 inches of height |
| Shock Quality | Premium N3 absorbers included |
| Control Arms | Forged aluminum construction |
| Installation | Easy home installation possible |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime replacement |
The Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit is the best choice for newer Ram 1500 owners seeking excellent value. This kit gives you serious ground clearance without breaking the bank. The forged aluminum control arms keep your truck’s suspension angles perfect, which means better handling and less wear on your parts.
The included N3 shocks handle both on-road and off-road driving smoothly. Installation is straightforward enough for most DIY folks with basic tools. You’ll get Rough Country’s lifetime warranty backing your purchase, so you’re protected long-term.
Pros:
- Most affordable option available
- Quality N3 shock absorbers included
- Easy DIY installation
- Lifetime warranty coverage
Cons:
- Shocks only (no struts)
- Slightly smaller lift than other options
2. Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 Shocks for 2009-2018 Ram 1500 2WD – Best for Older Models
Best for: Owners of older Ram 1500 models wanting maximum lift height and better ground clearance.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Amount | 4 inches of lift |
| Shock Quality | Premium N3 performance shocks |
| Ride Quality | Smooth OEM-like handling |
| Design | Laser-cut precision materials |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime replacement |
The Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit delivers the most lift in our lineup for older Ram trucks. This kit is perfect if you want dramatic height and the ability to fit bigger tires. The precision laser-cut components ensure perfect fitment on your truck.
The N3 shocks maintain a smooth ride quality that feels almost stock, even with the extra 4 inches of height. This kit levels the front with the rear for a balanced appearance. Rough Country’s lifetime warranty means you’re covered no matter what.
Pros:
- Maximum 4-inch lift height
- Smooth OEM-like ride quality
- Precision laser-cut components
- Lifetime warranty included
Cons:
- 2WD only (not 4WD)
- Older model year compatibility
3. Rough Country 3″ Suspension Lift Kit with N3 Struts & Shocks for Ram 1500 4WD – Best for Clean Stance
Best for: Drivers who want to eliminate the factory rake and achieve a perfectly level, aggressive look.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Amount | 3 inches balanced lift |
| Shock System | N3 loaded struts and shocks |
| Control Arms | Forged aluminum construction |
| Tire Capacity | Fits up to 33-inch tires |
| Installation | 100% bolt-on design |
The Rough Country 3″ Suspension Lift Kit is the best choice for owners wanting a perfectly leveled truck with aggressive style. This kit eliminates the factory rake that newer Rams have, giving you a clean, professional stance. The pre-loaded N3 struts and matching rear shocks work together for sharp control on any terrain.
The forged aluminum upper control arms maintain proper suspension angles to reduce wear. Installation is completely bolt-on with no cutting or drilling required. This kit is fully reversible and covered by Rough Country’s lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Eliminates factory rake completely
- N3 struts and shocks included
- Perfect stance and appearance
- 100% bolt-on installation
Cons:
- Mid-range price point
- Older model year compatibility
4. Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit w/N3 Struts & Shocks for 2019-2024 Ram 1500 4WD – Best Complete Package
Best for: Modern Ram 1500 owners who want the complete suspension upgrade with both front and rear components.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Amount | 3.5 inches total height |
| Shock System | N3 struts and shocks both |
| Control Arms | Forged aluminum design |
| Bushings | OEM-style rubber construction |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime replacement |
The Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit with full N3 struts and shocks is the best complete package for 2019-2024 Ram owners. This upgraded version includes both front struts and rear shocks for a fully integrated suspension system. The forged aluminum control arms with OEM-style rubber bushings provide durability and smooth handling.
You get premium performance for both on-road and off-road driving. Installation is straightforward and supported by Rough Country’s team. The lifetime warranty protects your investment for years to come.
Pros:
- Complete N3 struts and shocks
- Forged aluminum control arms
- Excellent on and off-road performance
- Lifetime warranty coverage
Cons:
- Higher price than base model
- 2019-2024 models only
5. ReadyLift 4.0″ Front with 2.0″ Rear SST Lift Kit – Best for Maximum Tire Clearance
Best for: Drivers of older Ram trucks who want the most aggressive lift and maximum tire capacity.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lift Amount | 4″ front, 2″ rear |
| Control Arms | Tubular upper arms |
| Tire Capacity | Fits 35×12.50 tires |
| Compatibility | 2009-2017 4WD models |
| Installation | Bolt-on design |
The ReadyLift SST Lift Kit is the best choice for serious off-roaders wanting maximum aggressive stance and tire clearance. This kit lifts the front 4 inches and rear 2 inches, creating dramatic height and the ability to fit massive 35-inch tires. The tubular upper control arms are built tough for extreme conditions.
This kit is designed specifically for 2009-2017 Ram 1500 4WD trucks and won’t work with factory air suspension. The aggressive front-heavy lift gives your truck a mean appearance. Installation is straightforward with standard bolt-on design.
Pros:
- Most aggressive lift available
- Fits huge 35-inch tires
- Tubular control arms
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Incompatible with air suspension
- Older model year only
How to Choose the Best Lift Kit for Ram 1500
Know Your Ram’s Year and Drivetrain
First, identify your Ram’s exact year and whether it’s 2WD or 4WD. Different generations need different kits, and many kits are specific to one drivetrain. Check your vehicle registration or owner’s manual if you’re unsure.
The year matters because suspension geometry changes between generations. Make sure any kit you choose is designed for your specific model year.
Decide Your Lift Height
Lift heights range from 3 to 4 inches in our lineup. A 3-inch lift gives you balanced performance and good tire clearance. A 4-inch lift is more aggressive and lets you fit bigger tires.
Think about what you’ll use your truck for. Daily drivers often prefer 3 inches, while off-roaders want maximum height.
Consider Shock Quality
Premium shocks like the N3 system make a huge difference in ride quality. Better shocks handle bumps smoothly and give you more control on rough terrain. All our top picks include quality shocks.
Don’t cheap out on shocks—they affect how your truck feels every day.
Check Installation Difficulty
All these kits are bolt-on designs, meaning no cutting or drilling required. Most can be installed at home with basic tools, though some people prefer professional installation. Rough Country offers installation support for their kits.
If you’re not mechanically inclined, budget extra money for professional installation at a shop.
Look at Warranty Coverage
Rough Country’s lifetime warranty is excellent protection for your investment. This means you’re covered if anything fails, no matter how long you own the truck. ReadyLift offers standard warranty coverage.
A strong warranty gives you peace of mind and shows the manufacturer stands behind their product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a lift kit affect my Ram’s warranty?
Lift kits typically don’t void your factory warranty, but modifications can affect coverage for suspension-related issues. Check your dealer’s specific policy before installing.
Can I install a lift kit myself?
Yes, most bolt-on kits can be installed at home with basic tools, though professional installation is recommended if you’re not experienced with suspension work.
How much can I lift my Ram 1500?
Our options range from 3 to 4 inches. Anything higher requires more extensive modifications and may affect your truck’s handling and warranty.
What size tires can I fit with a lift kit?
A 3-inch lift fits up to 33-inch tires, while a 4-inch lift can accommodate 35-inch tires. Check your specific kit’s recommendations.
Do I need new wheels with a lift kit?
Not necessarily, but many owners upgrade to larger wheels and tires to take full advantage of the extra clearance.
Final Thoughts
The Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks is our top pick for most 2019-2024 Ram 1500 owners because it offers the best balance of price, quality, and performance.
Choose based on your truck’s year, how you’ll use it, and your budget. All five kits we reviewed are solid choices backed by strong warranties. Make sure you pick one that matches your specific Ram model before purchasing.
A quality lift kit transforms your Ram’s appearance and capability, so invest in one from a trusted brand like Rough Country or ReadyLift.










