Best Lift Kit for Toyota 4runner 4th Gen

Upgrading your 4th Gen Toyota 4Runner with a lift kit enhances off-road capability, tire clearance, and rugged looks. Choosing the right one depends on your driving needs, budget, and desired ride quality—whether you want a mild 2-inch lift or a full 4-inch suspension overhaul.

Key Takeaways

• Choose based on use: Daily drivers should opt for mild lifts (2–3 inches), while serious off-roaders need 3–4+ inch kits with upgraded shocks.
• Coilover vs. spacer kits: Coilovers offer better performance and adjustability; spacer kits are budget-friendly but limit suspension travel.
• Brand matters: Top brands like Old Man Emu, Icon Vehicle Dynamics, and Bilstein deliver reliability and proven performance.
• Don’t forget geometry: Longer control arms or differential drop kits help maintain proper alignment and reduce wear.
• Tire size compatibility: A 2.5–3.5-inch lift allows 33-inch tires; larger lifts support 35s but may require fender trimming.
• Installation complexity: Full suspension lifts often require professional help; spacer kits are DIY-friendly.
• Budget wisely: Expect to spend $800–$3,000+ depending on components and brand quality.

Why Lift Your 4th Gen Toyota 4Runner?

The Toyota 4Runner has long been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, overlanders, and weekend adventurers. Its rugged body-on-frame construction, reliable 4WD system, and proven durability make it a standout in the SUV world. But even the most capable stock 4Runner has limits—especially when it comes to ground clearance, tire size, and suspension travel.

That’s where a lift kit comes in. Whether you’re tackling rocky trails, deep mud, or snowy backcountry roads, lifting your 4th Gen 4Runner (2003–2009) opens up a world of possibilities. A well-chosen lift kit improves approach and departure angles, allows for larger, more aggressive tires, and gives your ride a commanding presence on and off the pavement.

But it’s not just about looks. A proper lift enhances functionality. Imagine crawling over boulders without scraping your skid plate, or driving through a washed-out forest road with confidence. With the right setup, your 4Runner becomes a true trail machine—without sacrificing daily drivability.

Of course, not all lift kits are created equal. Some are designed for mild off-roading and daily use, while others are built for extreme rock crawling and expedition travel. Understanding your goals—and matching them to the right components—is key to a successful upgrade.

Understanding Lift Kit Types for the 4th Gen 4Runner

When shopping for the best lift kit for Toyota 4Runner 4th Gen, you’ll quickly encounter two main categories: spacer lifts and full suspension lifts. Each has its pros, cons, and ideal use cases.

Spacer Lifts: Budget-Friendly and Simple

Spacer lifts, also known as “body lifts” or “strut spacer kits,” are the most affordable and easiest to install. They work by adding spacers between the strut and the vehicle’s chassis, effectively raising the body without changing the suspension geometry.

These kits typically offer 1.5 to 3 inches of lift and cost between $200 and $500. They’re great for drivers who want a modest height increase for better ground clearance or to fit slightly larger tires—say, from stock 265/70R16s to 285/70R17s.

However, spacer lifts don’t improve suspension performance. Your stock shocks and springs remain unchanged, which means ride quality and off-road capability stay the same. Also, because they don’t address suspension geometry, you may experience minor alignment issues or reduced suspension travel if you go beyond 2 inches.

Best for: Daily drivers, light off-roaders, or those on a tight budget.

Coilover Lifts: Performance and Adjustability

Coilover lifts replace your factory struts with aftermarket coilovers—complete units that combine springs and shocks into one adjustable assembly. These kits offer superior ride quality, better damping, and often allow for ride height adjustment.

Most coilover lifts for the 4th Gen 4Runner provide 2.5 to 4 inches of lift and cost between $800 and $2,500. They’re ideal for serious off-roaders who want improved articulation, better handling on rough terrain, and the ability to fine-tune their setup.

Brands like Icon Vehicle Dynamics, Old Man Emu (OME), and Fox offer high-quality coilovers with remote reservoirs, adjustable compression, and extended travel. These features help maintain control at high speeds on uneven trails and reduce shock fade during long off-road sessions.

Best for: Overlanders, trail runners, and anyone prioritizing performance over cost.

Full Suspension Lifts: The Ultimate Upgrade

For maximum capability, a full suspension lift includes not just coilovers, but also upgraded upper control arms (UCAs), differential drop kits, extended brake lines, and sometimes even rear shocks and springs.

These kits typically offer 3 to 6 inches of lift and can cost $2,000 to $4,000+. They’re designed for extreme off-roading, rock crawling, or expedition builds where every inch of clearance and suspension travel counts.

A full lift maintains proper suspension geometry, reduces stress on CV joints, and allows for larger tires—35 inches or more—without major modifications. However, they require more installation time and often professional help.

Best for: Hardcore off-roaders, overland adventurers, and custom builders.

Top Brands for 4th Gen 4Runner Lift Kits

Not all lift kits are equal—and the brand you choose can make a big difference in performance, durability, and ease of installation. Here are some of the most trusted names in the 4Runner community.

Old Man Emu (OME) by ARB

Old Man Emu is a legendary name in off-road suspension, especially among Toyota enthusiasts. OME kits are known for their excellent ride quality, durability, and thoughtful engineering.

Their 4th Gen 4Runner lift kits typically offer 2 to 3.5 inches of lift and include heavy-duty coil springs, nitro shocks, and optional UCAs. The Nitrocharger Sport shocks provide smooth damping on and off-road, while the springs are tuned for both load-carrying and comfort.

OME kits are ideal for overlanders who carry gear and want a balanced setup. They’re also popular for daily drivers who occasionally hit the trails. Prices range from $900 to $1,600, depending on components.

Pro tip: Pair your OME lift with ARB’s differential drop kit to maintain proper CV angles and reduce wear.

Icon Vehicle Dynamics

Icon is a favorite among performance-oriented 4Runner owners. Their Stage 1 to Stage 4 kits offer progressively more capability, from basic coilovers to full long-travel systems.

The Stage 2 kit, for example, includes Icon 2.5” coilovers with remote reservoirs, adjustable UCAs, and rear shocks. It delivers 3 to 4 inches of lift and significantly improves off-road performance.

Icon’s Digressive Valve (DV) shocks provide excellent control at high speeds and over rough terrain. The remote reservoirs help dissipate heat, preventing shock fade during long runs.

Expect to pay $2,000–$3,500 for a full Icon setup. While pricey, the performance gain is noticeable—especially for rock crawlers and high-speed desert runners.

Bilstein

Bilstein is a German brand known for high-quality shocks and suspension components. Their 5100 and 6112 series are popular choices for 4th Gen 4Runners.

The Bilstein 5100 kit offers 2 to 2.5 inches of lift using adjustable-height front shocks and rear shocks. It’s a great middle-ground option—better than stock, more affordable than full coilovers.

For more serious use, the Bilstein 6112/7100 combo includes 2.5” front coilovers and rear shocks with remote reservoirs. This setup improves both ride quality and off-road capability.

Bilstein kits are reliable, well-built, and widely available. Prices range from $700 to $1,800.

Fox Racing Shox

Fox is a top-tier brand in the off-road world, known for its racing heritage and high-performance shocks. Their 2.0 Performance Series coilovers are a solid choice for 4th Gen 4Runners.

These coilovers offer 2.5 to 3.5 inches of lift and feature aluminum bodies, internal floating pistons, and adjustable preload. They’re lighter than steel coilovers and resist corrosion better.

Fox shocks are excellent for high-speed desert running and technical trails. However, they’re on the pricier side—$1,500–$2,500 for a full front and rear setup.

ReadyLIFT

ReadyLIFT specializes in bolt-on suspension solutions that are easy to install and maintain. Their 4th Gen 4Runner kits typically offer 2 to 3 inches of lift using strut spacers or coilovers.

While not as performance-oriented as Icon or Fox, ReadyLIFT kits are reliable and great for daily drivers who want a modest lift. They’re also more affordable, with prices starting around $600.

How Much Lift Do You Really Need?

One of the most common questions is: “How much lift should I get?” The answer depends on your goals, driving style, and how you plan to use your 4Runner.

Mild Lift (1.5–2.5 Inches)

A mild lift is perfect for daily drivers who want better ground clearance and the ability to fit slightly larger tires. It’s also ideal if you’re on a budget or don’t plan to do serious off-roading.

With a 2-inch lift, you can comfortably run 33-inch tires (like 285/70R17) without major modifications. This size offers a good balance of traction, fuel economy, and ride comfort.

Mild lifts usually don’t require extended brake lines or differential drops, making installation simpler. They’re also less likely to affect your vehicle’s warranty or resale value.

Moderate Lift (2.5–3.5 Inches)

A moderate lift is the sweet spot for most off-road enthusiasts. It allows for 33- to 35-inch tires, improves approach and departure angles, and enhances suspension performance.

This range is popular among overlanders and trail runners. You’ll likely need upgraded UCAs and possibly a differential drop kit to maintain proper alignment and reduce CV joint stress.

Coilover kits in this range (like OME or Bilstein) offer the best balance of comfort and capability. They’re also easier to drive on pavement than extreme lifts.

High Lift (4+ Inches)

A high lift is for serious off-roaders who tackle extreme terrain. It allows for 35-inch or larger tires and significantly improves clearance.

However, high lifts come with trade-offs. You’ll need extended brake lines, longer rear shocks, and possibly a transfer case drop or crossmember modification. Ride quality on pavement may suffer, and fuel economy can drop.

High lifts also increase stress on drivetrain components. Regular maintenance and quality parts are essential.

Only go this high if you’re committed to off-roading or building a dedicated trail rig.

Installation Tips and What to Expect

Installing a lift kit isn’t just about bolting on parts—it’s about doing it right to ensure safety, performance, and longevity.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Spacer lifts and mild coilover kits can often be installed at home with basic tools and mechanical knowledge. Most kits come with detailed instructions, and online forums like 4Runner Forum and YouTube have step-by-step guides.

However, full suspension lifts—especially those with UCAs, differential drops, and extended brake lines—are best left to professionals. Improper installation can lead to alignment issues, premature wear, or even safety hazards.

If you’re unsure, consult a reputable off-road shop. Many offer package deals that include installation, alignment, and tuning.

Alignment and Geometry

After any lift, a professional wheel alignment is essential. Lifting your 4Runner changes the suspension geometry, which can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and stress on components.

Upper control arms help correct camber and caster angles. If your kit doesn’t include them, consider adding them—especially for lifts over 2.5 inches.

A differential drop kit lowers the front differential to reduce CV joint angles. This is crucial for lifts over 3 inches to prevent premature joint failure.

Tire and Wheel Considerations

Larger tires are one of the main reasons people lift their 4Runners. But bigger tires come with trade-offs.

33-inch tires (like 285/70R17) are a popular choice for 2.5- to 3.5-inch lifts. They offer great traction and look aggressive without requiring major modifications.

35-inch tires (like 285/75R17) need at least a 3.5-inch lift and may require fender trimming or aftermarket fender flares. They also increase stress on axles, brakes, and the transmission.

Always check clearance during full suspension compression. Rubbing can damage tires and body panels.

Other Upgrades to Consider

A lift kit is just the beginning. To get the most out of your 4Runner, consider these complementary upgrades:

– **Skid plates:** Protect your oil pan, transfer case, and fuel tank.
– **Rock sliders:** Shield rocker panels from trail damage.
– **Upgraded brakes:** Larger tires increase braking distance; consider slotted rotors or performance pads.
– **Re-gearing:** Larger tires reduce engine torque; re-gearing (e.g., 4.56:1) restores performance.
– **Lighting:** Add LED bars or fog lights for better visibility on trails.

Maintaining Your Lifted 4Runner

A lifted 4Runner requires regular maintenance to stay safe and perform well.

Inspect Suspension Components

Check coilovers, shocks, UCAs, and bushings every 5,000 miles or after hard off-road use. Look for leaks, cracks, or loose bolts.

Monitor CV Joints and Drivetrain

Lifts increase stress on CV joints, especially with larger tires. Listen for clicking noises during turns—a sign of worn joints.

Tire Rotation and Alignment

Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles to ensure even wear. Get an alignment after any suspension work or if you notice pulling or uneven tread.

Clean and Lubricate

Off-roading exposes your 4Runner to mud, water, and debris. Wash undercarriage regularly and lubricate suspension pivots and steering components.

Conclusion

Choosing the best lift kit for Toyota 4Runner 4th Gen is about balancing performance, budget, and intended use. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time overlander, there’s a lift kit that fits your needs.

For daily drivers, a mild 2-inch spacer or coilover kit from Bilstein or ReadyLIFT offers a great starting point. Overlanders will appreciate the comfort and capability of an Old Man Emu setup. And for hardcore off-roaders, Icon or Fox coilovers with full suspension components deliver unmatched performance.

Remember: a lift is more than just height—it’s about capability, confidence, and adventure. Do your research, invest in quality parts, and maintain your setup properly. Your 4Runner will reward you with years of reliable, thrilling off-road experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best lift height for a 4th Gen 4Runner?

The ideal lift height depends on your use. A 2.5–3.5 inch lift is the most popular, offering a great balance of tire clearance, off-road performance, and daily drivability. It allows for 33- to 35-inch tires without major modifications.

Can I install a lift kit myself?

Spacer lifts and mild coilover kits can be DIY-installed with basic tools and mechanical skill. Full suspension lifts with UCAs and differential drops are best left to professionals to ensure proper alignment and safety.

Will a lift kit void my warranty?

A lift kit won’t automatically void your entire warranty, but it may affect coverage on suspension and drivetrain components. Check with your dealer and consider aftermarket warranties if needed.

Do I need new upper control arms with a lift?

Yes, for lifts over 2.5 inches. UCAs help correct suspension geometry, reduce tire wear, and prevent stress on CV joints. Most quality lift kits include them or recommend them.

Can I fit 35-inch tires on a 4th Gen 4Runner?

Yes, with a 3.5-inch or higher lift. You may need to trim fenders, install aftermarket flares, and consider re-gearing for optimal performance and to reduce strain on the drivetrain.

How much does a full lift kit cost?

Prices range from $800 for basic spacer kits to $3,000+ for full suspension systems with coilovers, UCAs, and shocks. Premium brands like Icon and Fox are on the higher end but offer superior performance.