Getting Help to Lift Your Truck or Jeep
So, you’ve decided to install a lift kit on your truck or Jeep, but you don’t feel comfortable installing the kit yourself. You love the idea of going off-road and adding larger, thicker tires to your vehicle, but you didn’t go to school for mechanical engineering. The good news is that most lift kits are relatively easy to install. You don’t need to be an experienced mechanic to get the job done, but, if you’re worried about making a mistake, it’s best to hand over the reins to a licensed professional who knows what they’re doing. Find out how to hire the right mechanic for the job.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Choosing between hiring a mechanic and installing the kit yourself depends on a number of factors but keep this information in mind before you make your final decision.
Most lift kits and leveling kits can be installed in just a few hours, while some may require upward of 12 hours. If you don’t have this kind of time on your hands, go with a professional. However, if you have a few days to spare and you’re looking to save money and learn something new, consider the DIY approach.
These kits also cost anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on how high you want to go with your lift. Leveling kits tend to be much cheaper and easier to install than lift kits. The higher you want to raise the suspension, the more expensive and complicated this process will be. In addition to buying a kit, the mechanic will likely charge you anywhere from several hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the complexity of the task at hand.
Finding a Local Mechanic
If you decide to err on the side of caution and hire a professional, you’ll need to find a mechanic that specializes in installing lift kits. It’s 2019, so try Googling phrases like “lift kit installation shops near me” or “auto shops that install lift kits near me.” You’ll see a range of options appear on the map, so you can easily find a shop that’s not too far out of your way.
Before you drive to the shop, it’s best to call ahead and make sure they install lift kits. Some shops may advertise this service, but they may not have the manpower to follow through. Compare different shops until you speak to a professional with the right expertise.
Friends and Family
If you’re short on funds or you’d rather work with someone you know, consider asking your friends and family for assistance. There may be a lifted truck or Jeep enthusiast in your family or network of friends, so don’t be afraid to put out some feelers before committing to a mechanic.
You can’t ask just anyone to install a lift kit, but, if you happen to know someone who knows what they’re doing, why not save a little money? You can also watch them install the kit in person, giving you a chance to ask questions and expand your knowledge.
Asking the Right Questions
When talking to different mechanics, make sure they’re familiar with your specific make and model, including all the aftermarket parts and components that need to be installed, such as shocks, coil springs, control arms, and other lifting essentials.
Once the kit has been installed, you need to know that you can count on this person if your vehicle doesn’t handle as well as expected. A comprehensive lift kit should give you the ride you’re looking for, but improper installation can lead to problems down the line. Talk to the mechanic about any potential issues and how to solve them when it comes to lifting your vehicle. If the mechanic doesn’t seem to know what they’re talking about, find someone who does.
Make sure you get a receipt for all services rendered and talk to the owners about their refund or warranty policies. If the kit isn’t properly installed the first time around, you should be entitled to a refund or free additional repairs.
Installing a lift kit is a big decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re new to the world of lifted trucks and Jeeps, do your research and find a mechanic who has your best interests in mind.