Last Updated on April 15, 2023
Are you a Toyota 4Runner owner looking to take your vehicle to the next level? Lift kits are a great way to accomplish this.
The best lift kits for 4Runner can increase ground clearance, improve articulation, and enhance the off-road performance of your SUV. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider all the factors before making a purchase.
We’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the top lift kits for Toyota 4Runner to help you make an informed decision. This complete guide looks at everything from construction materials to design and aggressive appearance, so you know exactly what to look for when shopping for a 4Runner lift kit.
Here’s Our Reviews of the Top 5 4runner Lift Kit
The Toyota 4Runner is a highly versatile vehicle, providing an ideal solution for off-roading, weekend getaways, and everyday driving. If you’re after more than just a reliable ride, installing a lift kit can take your 4Runner to the next level.
With one of our top recommended lift kits installed in your 4Runner, you can tackle any terrain with confidence and ease. Take a look at the following:
1. KSP PERFORMANCE FJ Cruiser 3 Inch 4runner Lift Kit
Transform your Toyota 4Runner into a show-stopping automobile with KSP Performance’s must-have FJ Cruiser 3″ Lift Kit. Elevate both the style and stability of your SUV by increasing ground clearance, traditional tire sizing for added traction, plus an alluring exterior appearance that will turn heads.
Solid Front Spacers Made of Aluminum
KSP PERFORMANCE’s fj cruiser 3 inch 4runner lift kit comes with solid front spacers made from aircraft-grade aluminum that are lightweight and durable. This ensures that your lift kit will last you many years of off-road adventures without worrying about damage or wearing out too quickly.
Increase Ground Clearance
The main purpose of the FJ Cruiser lift kit is to increase ground clearance, allowing your vehicle to traverse terrain easier and safer than before. With this spacer lift, you’ll have three inches of extra clearance for tougher terrain, so you won’t bottom out or scrape against rocks.
Keeps the Original Tire Size
Also, If you’re looking for a lift kit but don’t want your tires to get bigger, this KSP PERFORMANCE 73LF8301 lift kit is perfect. This 3-inch Toyota 4Runner lift kit allows you to keep your existing tires without buying bigger ones due to their clever design.
Get a More Aggressive Look
Not only does this lift kit improve performance, but it also gives your ride a more aggressive aesthetic look than what it had before installation. This black-coated steel lift is eye-catching and will turn heads whether you’re driving around town or on rough terrain.
The Car Will Be More Stable
Increased ground clearance makes traversing difficult terrain easier and helps increase stability when driving at higher speeds or off-road altogether.
By providing three inches more room between your vehicle and whatever surface it’s going over, there’s less chance for shaking or jolting which can cause discomfort and make driving unsafe overall.
Positive Things:
- Billet aluminum and 10.9-grade solid bolts for safe driving
- Powder-coated black for corrosion resistance
- Gain extra ground clearance and improve the look of your car
- Level your vehicle easily and effectively
- Compatible with a variety of crazy off-road vehicles
Insufficiencies:
- The bolts are a bit too long but still manageable.
2. Dynofit Lift Kits for 4Runner
Off-roaders looking to improve their Toyota 4Runner’s performance and clearance will love Dynofit lift kits. With corrosion-resistant construction, these products offer excellent value since they fit a wide range of vehicles and are durable.
Improved Off-Road Performance
With Dynofit lift kits, Toyota 4runner users will experience noticeably improved off-road performance. The enhanced suspension allows the car to easily cross difficult obstacles and maintain excellent control, making it ideal for rock crawling, mud driving, and sand driving.
Increased Clearance
One of its most impressive features is the improved ground clearance of the Dynofit lift kits for 4Runner. This kit increases the vehicle’s ride height by 1.5 inches. Drivers can navigate through tight spaces and obstacles that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Excellent Resistance to Corrosion
One of the significant benefits of the Dynofit 9F015-15 lift kit is its excellent corrosion resistance. Since it is constructed from high-quality materials treated with special anti-corrosive agents, it will resist damage caused by salt water, mud, snow, and other elements encountered when off-roading.
Long Lasting & Great Value
This Toyota 4Runner lift kit offers excellent value since it will last a long time despite the harsh conditions of off-roading activities. Its components are made from top-grade materials, so they won’t easily break down or wear out due to regular use in tough environments like rocky trails or muddy roads.
Compatible With Most Vehicles
The Dynofit lift kit is compatible with most vehicles on today’s market, including both two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) models of the Toyota 4Runner, which makes it highly versatile in terms of use cases.
Positive Things:
- Get a professional lift kit that is easy to install
- Made with high-quality materials that are resistant to corrosion
- Bolts are graded for superior strength and resistance to wear and tear
- Kit includes strut spacers and components for a complete lift
- You’ll get a level ride and more clearance
Insufficiencies:
- You’ll need a professional mechanic when you install this spacer.
3. Rough Country 2000 Toyota 4Runner 4WD Lift Kit
Looking for a way to improve your 2000 Toyota 4Runner 4WD’s performance? Consider the Rough Country lift kit. This kit is designed to provide improved height, durability, and ride quality while giving you a more aggressive look. The combination of these factors makes this lift kit the runner-up.
Adds Height and Clearance
The Rough Country 77130 lift kit adds 3” of clearance to your vehicle, allowing it to tackle rougher terrain. You’ll be able to climb steep hills and more enormous rocks without worrying about scraping or bottoming out. Plus, the extra height makes it easier to see on bumpy roads.
Durable and Long-Lasting
It has been built using high-quality materials such as steel and aluminum designed to last in any condition. The design also offers great protection against rust and corrosion, so you don’t have to worry about it being damaged by exposure to the elements.
Maintains Your Vehicles Factory Ride Quality
The Rough Country 2000 Toyota 4Runner 4WD lift kit helps maintain your factory ride quality while providing increased ground clearance benefits. It uses specially designed springs that ensure your suspension works properly while cushioning against bumps and rocks in the road.
A More Aggressive Appearance
This Rough Country’s Toyota 4Runner suspension lift kit gives your vehicle an undeniably bolder look that will make heads turn wherever you go. Its aluminum spacers help widen your stance for improved stability on uneven terrain. This creates an even more rugged look that won’t easily be forgotten.
A New Level of Adventure and Excitement
With its added ground clearance comes improved performance when tackling off-road trails or steep inclines. You’ll be less likely to get stuck with increased stability. This product is worth considering if you’re looking for a way to add some extra adventure into your life.
Positive Things:
- Protect your vehicle from the harshest terrains and elements
- Upgrade your ride with stylish N3 shocks
- Easy bolt-on installation supported by Rough Country
- Get better performance and handling out of your car
- It gives your vehicle a rugged off-road look and feels
Insufficiencies:
- The quality makes it a bit pricey, and you’d need an expert to install it.
4. Richeer Lift Kits 4Runner 2005 Leveling Kit
With Richeer’s lift kit 4Runner for Toyota, you’ll get more ground clearance and a better ride. This lift kit combines an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and an aggressive stance to keep SUVs from squatting while towing.
Additional Corrosion Resistance
The Richeer AM26661 lift kit for Toyota 4Runner offers superior corrosion resistance compared to many other common kits. This is because it is constructed with specialized aluminum that provides additional protection against corrosion caused by saltwater or road salt.
Excellent Strength-To-Weight Ratio
Richeer’s leveling lift kit provides a tremendous strength-to-weight ratio which gives your SUV a sturdy feel without being overly heavy. The 2.5-inch lift comprises two lightweight components engineered from strong materials such as aluminum and steel.
Keeps SUVs from Squatting While Towing
With its increased height and improved suspension system, this Richeer lift kit 4Runner 2005 leveling kit keeps SUVs from squatting when towing heavy loads. This helps prevent any damage caused by strain on the vehicle’s engine or transmission when carrying heavier weight than it was designed to handle.
Gives Your Vehicle an Aggressive Stance
This lift kit also gives your SUV an aggressive stance when installed correctly due to its 2.5-inch lift, which improves ground clearance significantly. And the included hardware allows you to customize your vehicle’s appearance even further, allowing you to make sure that your car looks exactly how you want it too.
It Comes With Everything You Need
You’ll get everything you need for this Richeer 4Runner lift kit, including hardware and instructions. All that remains is for you to decide where and how you want it installed. Following these instructions carefully lets you quickly return your vehicle to the roads.
Positive Things:
- Improves the look of your truck or SUV
- Raises the front of your pickup by 2.5 inches
- No strut or coil disassembly is required for installation
- CNC automatic processing for high accuracy and stability
- Level your 4runner for a more aggressive appearance
Insufficiencies:
- It may be difficult for a novice to get strut back in.
5. BDFHYK Toyota 4Runner 3 Inch Lift Kit
The BDFHYK 3-inch lift kit for Toyota 4Runner is an ideal upgraded suspension lift to improve your vehicle’s safety, style, and comfort. It ensures a level suspension that keeps you steady on the roads while maintaining factory-level ride quality. The installation process is very simple.
3 Inch Lift Kit for Toyota 4Runner
The BDFHYK Toyota 4Runner 3 inch lift kit offers a great way to increase ground clearance while still providing a comfortable ride. This kit includes heavy-duty construction brackets, extended shackles, an extended transmission cross member, and more.
Improve Safety and Appearance
The extra height improves visibility when driving off-road, giving you greater confidence when navigating through uneven terrain or tight spaces. Also, it gives your vehicle a more aggressive look which improves its curb appeal.
Keeps Car Level For Better Comfort
When driving on rough terrain or mountain roads, the BDFHYK 3-inch lift kit helps reduce road vibrations that can cause fatigue inside the cabin by keeping the vehicle level. The improved suspension performance ensures a smooth ride even when going over bumps or obstacles at high speeds.
Easily Install In Under 2 Hours
The BDFHYK lift kit is designed for easy installation with basic hand tools in under two hours. All necessary mounting brackets are included, so there’s no need to buy additional parts or modify the vehicle’s existing suspension components during installation.
Maintainable Factory Ride Quality
Once installed, the BDFHYK 3-inch Toyota 4Runner lift kit will maintain the factory ride quality of your vehicle while increasing its off-road capabilities.
Combined with high-quality construction materials, the product is designed to withstand corrosion and provide highly reliable performance in all weather conditions.
Positive Things:
- Improve the look of your Toyota 4Runner
- Easy installation and no drilling required
- Made from high-quality materials for durability
- It gives your vehicle a more professional look
- It comes with detailed instructions for a perfect fit
Insufficiencies:
- Some users say the lift’s center opening needs to be ground down to fit.
Comparison Table for the Best 4Runner Lift Kit
| Product | Position | Max Lifting Height | Fitment | Cover Included |
| KSP PERFORMANCE | Front | 3 Inches | 2003 to 2021 | Comes with package box |
| Dynofit | Front | 1.5 Inches | 4WD/2WD 2003 to 2021 | Lug bolt |
| Rough Country | Driveline | 3 Inches | 4WD 1996 to 2002 | Strut extensions, Lifted coil springs |
| Richeer | Front | 2.5 Inches | 2003 to 2021 | Leveling Lift Kit |
| BDFHYK | Front | 3 Inches | 2WD/4WD 2003 to 2021 | Comes with housing |
How to Choose the Best Lift Kits for 4Runner?
Installing a lift kit is one of the most popular modifications for 4Runner vehicles. They offer various advantages, such as improved ground clearance, allowing for heavier load-carrying capacity and greater stability when traversing off-road terrain.
But when it comes to selecting a lift kit, there are some important factors to take into consideration:
01: Construction Material
When selecting a lift kit for a Toyota 4Runner, it’s essential to consider the materials used in its construction. Aluminum is the most common material used in lift kits, as it is lightweight and robust enough to withstand the stresses of off-roading.
Also, aluminum won’t corrode like some other metals, making them an excellent option for vehicles exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures.
Another plus to using aluminum is that it can be easily molded or cut into any shape desired, allowing for greater flexibility in design and potential customization options.
02: Maximum Lifting Height
It depends on how much clearance you want between your vehicle and the ground. Generally, most people opt for lifts of 1.5 inches to 3 inches. But larger lifts are available if you need more clearance for specific off-roading purposes.
Not all lift kits offer the same amount of suspension travel, so it’s worth researching what each kit provides before deciding.
03: Design and Aggressive Appearance
When choosing a lift kit for your Toyota 4Runner, it’s also essential to consider its appearance, especially if you plan on taking it off-road frequently. Many kits offer aggressive designs that can enhance your vehicle’s look while offering superior performance on rugged terrain.
You can also choose from various colors and finish options, such as black or chrome, to match with existing components on your vehicle or further customize its appearance.
04: Off-Road Performance
Ultimately, when deciding on a lift kit for your Toyota 4Runner, off-road performance should be at the top of your priority list. You want something that will enhance stability over rough terrain and easily handle tough obstacles like rocks and potholes.
A good quality lift kit should offer improved ground clearance and increased suspension travel to handle obstacles without sacrificing safety or comfortability during use.
Also, investing in high-quality adjustable shocks can further improve handling characteristics while allowing you to customize settings and adjust them depending on the terrain you’ll encounter during each outing.
05: Versatility
Versatility should also be considered when selecting the right lift kit for your Toyota 4Runner. Fortunately, these vehicles have been in production since 2000, so many different options are available on the market today.
It’s important to choose one specifically designed for your model year 4Runner, as some may not fit or perform properly with older models. Also, double-check that any optional accessories or components you select are compatible with your model before purchasing.
06: Corrosion Resistance
Depending on where you live and how much off-roading you plan to do, it’s essential to ensure that your lift kit is made from materials that will withstand exposure to water and other elements.
Black-coated or powder-coated lift kits offer superior protection against rust and wear, as well as an attractive aesthetic. Also, look for lift kits with 5-layer rubberized gaskets and seals to provide extra protection against corrosion and a more secure fit when installed.
07: Installation Time
One way to save time and money when installing your Toyota 4Runner’s lift kit is by investing in a kit with a shorter installation time. Many standard kits require around 2 hours to install, while more advanced or specialized kits may take longer.
Look for kits that claim “one-step installation” or are otherwise advertised as quick and easy to install. And consider using air tools during installation if possible. These can drastically reduce installation time compared to using manual hand tools.
08: Safety and Comfort
The lift kit you choose should boost the appearance and performance and meet safety standards for all off-road enthusiasts.
When shopping for a lift kit, understand that larger ground clearance does improve stability when traversing obstacles or climbing. Yet, too much additional ground clearance creates an unreliable drive that could lead to a disastrous situation.
Finding a reliable balance between superior performance, comfort, and safety will keep you safe while having fun on your next off-road escapade.
09: Wheels and Tires Options
When selecting a lift kit for your Toyota 4Runner, it is essential to factor in the wheel and tire sizes that best suit your desired look and functionality.
To determine this, it is important to begin with the list of wheel and tire sizes officially supported by the manufacturer. This list serves as an invaluable guide when considering wheel/tire options.
Furthermore, many third-party companies offer custom wheel/tire packages specifically tailored to specific makes and models, which can provide more choices than those officially recognized by the manufacturer.
Consequently, researching possible wheel and tire options should be considered to find the ideal fit for any vehicle with a lift kit installed.
10: Adjustability Options
Many modern lift kits come with adjustable ride height and suspension settings to customize your ride based on your intended use.
This feature allows you to fine-tune your 4Runner’s handling characteristics and ensure it performs at its best regardless of the terrain or conditions you may encounter while off-roading.
Some adjustable kits even allow you to adjust the shock absorbers separately to fine-tune your setup further. Adjustable lift kits are also beneficial because they allow you to customize your vehicle’s look without compromising performance or safety standards.
How High To Suspension Lift 4Runner?
Depending on what the vehicle is being used for and the clearance issues associated with certain components, careful consideration must be taken when choosing how much to lift a Toyota 4Runner.
Bumpers, headlights, steering components, and headers are all items that might be affected by changes in lift height. Because of these potentially restrictive clearance issues, most 4Runner owners who install a body lift tend to stick with something around 1 to 3 inches.
This height is generally sufficient for added ground clearance without any potential fitment issues. Also depending on the desired application of the vehicle, this range may still be too low or too high for an individual’s specific needs.
How to Install the Best 4Runner Lift Kit 5th Gen?
A lift kit typically includes components such as springs, shocks, and spacers to raise the vehicle and improve handling. Now let’s dive into the Toyota 4Runner lift kit 5th gen installation process. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 01: Gather the Required Tools and Parts
Before you begin the installation process, you must have all the necessary tools and parts. These include the lift kit components, a floor jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, pliers, a torque wrench, and a pry bar.
Step 02: Prepare Your 4Runner for Installation
To get started, ensure your 4Runner is on level ground and the emergency brake is engaged. Then, remove the wheels and tires, and disconnect the brake lines, ABS wires, and sway bar links.
Step 03: Install the New Springs and Shocks
First, remove the old ones by loosening the bolts that secure them in place. Then, put the new springs and shocks on and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.
Step 04: Install the Spacers
Some lift kits may require the installation of spacers to achieve the desired height. To do this, place the spacer on top of the strut and re-install the strut assembly.
Step 05: Reconnect the Sway Bar Links and Brake Lines
After installing the new lift kit components, reattach the sway bar links and brake lines, ensuring everything is correctly aligned.
Step 06: Test Drive Your 4Runner
Once you have completed the installation, take your 4Runner for a test drive to ensure everything works correctly. Check for any strange noises, vibrations, or other issues.
Does the Best 3rd Gen 4runner Lift Kit Make a Difference?
A lift kit on a 3rd generation Toyota 4Runner can significantly improve off-road performance and overall appearance. The lift kit raises the vehicle’s body off the ground, providing more clearance and allowing for larger tires, which can improve traction and stability on rough terrain.
The 3rd gen 4Runner lift kit typically includes new springs, shocks, and other components designed to provide a more significant lift than the stock suspension. Ultimately, the result is a more aggressive and commanding look, especially popular with off-road enthusiasts.
What Size Tires Can You Fit With the Best 4th Gen 4runner Lift Kit?
Generally, a 4th gen 4Runner can accommodate tires up to 33 inches in diameter without kit and modifications. Depending on the type of lift kit you choose, you may also be able to fit 34″ tires. But be sure to use the manufacturer’s recommendations before selecting your tires.
In addition to tire size, you must also consider the type of terrain you will be driving on and any additional modifications that may affect the performance of your 4Runner.
Does a Lift Kit Void Toyota 4runner Warranty?
When considering whether a lift kit will void a Toyota 4Runner warranty, it is essential to remember that the parts modified when lifting the vehicle more than two inches will not be covered under warranty.
Therefore, if someone installs a lift kit on their 4Runner and lifts it more than two inches, they risk voiding certain aspects of their warranty. That being said, some people may choose to take the risk and install a lift kit anyway, as doing so has many benefits.
Installing a lift kit can provide improved off-road performance capabilities and suspension for those planning to take their 4Runner off the beaten path.
Is It worth Lifting a 4runner with a Spacer Lift Kit?
Lifting a vehicle can be a great way to improve its performance and appearance. Installing a spacer lift kit on a 4Runner can give it an elevated look, allow for larger tires, and even increase ground clearance. But is it worth the investment?
While spacer lifts are much less expensive than traditional full-suspension lifts, they come with some compromises. Depending on your chosen kit, the vehicle’s suspension may become stiffer up front due to preloading the OEM springs. But, it won’t have a significant impact on overall performance.
Find the Perfect Lift Kit for Your Toyota 4Runner
Whatever type of driving you do with your Toyota 4Runner, installing the best lift kits for your 4Runner will ensure that it performs at its highest level. But, the multitude of lift kits available today can make choosing one overwhelming.
And take all of the above factors before shopping around for a new lift kit for your 4Runner, ranging from construction materials to adjustability options. This will make finding the one that works most efficiently for you much easier.
Based on our research into 4Runner lift kits, we recommend the KSP PERFORMANCE 73LF8301 lift kit. This lift kit provides your vehicle with increased ground clearance and off-road capabilities while maintaining its factory ride quality.
