Top 10 4Runner Lift Kits - What Suspension Is Right For You? (2024)

Pictured: @4runner.tx Westcott Design Lift kit for TRD Pro Fox-Shocks 2.75″ front & 1.25″ rear on 285/70R17 KM3s, with no BMC

Top 10 Lift Kits and Suspension Kits for the Toyota 4Runner + a Few Leveling & Shim Kit Options

Upgrading your suspension is without a doubt one of the best mods you can do for your 4Runner. The better handling and performance you gain from a nice lift kit makes it worth every penny.

The hard part is choosing which lift kit is right for you. Whether you’re just going for looks, or want something that’ll perform under harsh wheeling conditions, there is a lift kit out there for everyone.

Why a lift?

For starters, you get more ground clearance on the body of the truck. This is useful for anyone who takes their 4Runner off-road whether it’s twice a year or once a week. The upgraded suspension will also produce a bit of a stiffer ride on the pavement which will improve the handling of your vehicle (less body roll on corners and less nose dive when braking). If you choose to go with a full-on suspension lift kit, then you will most likely see an increase in articulation (flex) while off-roading.

Progressive, Digressive, or Linear?

Pictured: @trail4r Icon Stage 2 Tubular with 3″ overland spring and Ekstrom Designs Strut Shims +1″ with Cooper EVO MT 35X12.5R17 on Fuel Anza 17″ -6 offset running 1.25″ Spacers

It’s safe to say that each lift is different in its own way, which means each lift is going to vary when it comes to what you should expect (on-road, off-road, price, features, etc). Damping plays a big role when it comes to the way your shocks perform. Whether they’re progressive, digressive, or linear – each type of damping is going to be beneficial for different types of off-roading.

Progressive

Most progressive shocks are those that have a tune-able bypass but not always. This type of damping is really nice for rough terrain. They handle bumps really well which makes it extremely beneficial if you plan on doing some serious off-roading in your 4Runner. The downside to progressive shocks is the handling is less than ideal and in some cases feels sloppy or loose.

Digressive

Icon and entry-level Bilsteins are a good example of digressive shock. This style of damping is really good for daily driving because the suspension feels tighter and more responsive. The downside to digressive damping is that you will feel every bump, especially at slower speeds. The good thing is that when you start to increase your speed, that low-speed load begins to wear off, producing a much smoother ride.

Linear

Shocks with linear damping are the best of both worlds. In fact, many progressive shocks can be tuned to perform like a linear shock. Such brands include shocks made by Fox or King.

With all that being said, what you plan on using your 4Runner for should play a big role when it comes to choosing your lift.

Lift Kit Options

Pictured: @KCSnowRunner Toytec Boss Lift Kit on 285/70/17 Nitto Ridge Grapplers

Whatever you plan on using your 4Runner for, there is a lift kit out there for you. With so many different brands available, how do you decide which one to choose? There are a couple of things to consider before buying a lift.

While going over your options, it’s important to consider what you want to get out of your lift. Whether you’re building an overlanding rig, or want to go all out with a weekend warrior build, it’s important to consider which type of suspension would benefit you the most. The first thing you should consider is how much you plan on going off-road and what kind of trails you plan on doing.

Off-Roading

If you go offroading often and plan on hitting moderate to advanced trails, then you might look into getting a high tier lift kit like the OME BP-51, Fox, King, or Icon. Another thing to consider is how much weight you plan on bolting up to the frame. If you plan on doing a full overland style build, then you may consider companies like Old Man Emu and Dobinsons since they offer a wide variety of spring rates.

Price

If you’re like most of us, price plays a big role in which products you are considering buying. If you don’t plan on offroading that often or maybe you just want to stick to fire roads, then it’s hard to justify the price tag on a set of coilovers. Spacers and shims are an inexpensive way to lift or level your 4Runner. The downside is you may lose a bit of ride quality.

Adjustability

Adjustability also plays a role when it comes to choosing the perfect lift for your 4Runner. Why does it matter if your coilover is adjustable? Adjustable coilovers are extremely nice to have. You can pick and choose how much lift the coilovers give you. You can raise one side or the other to combat against driver side lean. You can also determine how level your 4Runner sits. All of this is very useful because it allows you to dial in your suspension to where you want it.

What to expect

Pictured: @4xploration Icon stage 7 with 3″ overland springs on Nitto ridge grappler 285/75R17s

When you lift your 4Runner you will notice a couple of differences.

For starters, your center of gravity is now a little bit higher. This means you may notice added body roll while going around corners, and you may even get a little tippy on the trail. Depending on which lift kit you get, you will also notice a difference in ride quality. Suspension lifts tend to increase ride quality, while spacer lifts may feel a little stiff can even feel looser – depending on the kit. Flex and articulation also depend on which lift kit you get. Spacer lifts will offer no added flex due to the fact they utilize the stock suspension, whereas coilovers will offer the most travel.

The handling on the road will increase since the suspension will feel a little stiffer. Potholes will start to feel a lot better, and you will feel a lot more comfortable going down a rough road. Adding a bigger lift may decrease the gas mileage of your vehicle, and leveling your 4Runner with only shims will keep the mileage at a lost low.

Tires & wheels

Pictured: @evergreen_rnr 2.5″ Bilstein 6112/5160 with C59-329 Rear Spring on 285/70R17 BFG K02s

Suspension lifts will definitely set you on the right track when it comes to fitting tires. The added ground clearance from the lift allows you to stuff some bigger tires in your wheel well.

When you install a lift kit you gain ground clearance on the body and the frame. Moreover, when you add larger size tires you gain ground clearance on your axles which gives you a bit of an advantage when it comes to rough terrain.

Please read our largest tire size guide before asking tire size questions. Thank you.

Styles of Lift Kits

Pictured: @CalebKerr 3” Icon Stage 2 on 285/70R17s BFG KO2 with Method MR701s, no BMC, no rubbing

• Shims: Shims are an inexpensive way to level your truck out with stock suspension. The shim is placed on top of the strut and bolted back into place. Generally, they are used for leveling your 4Runner or for a small lift kit, but they can also be used to fix driver side lean. Additionally, sometimes they are installed on top of coilovers to prevent the need for maxing out coilover pre-load.
• Spacers: Spacers are another inexpensive way to lift your 4Runner. Some spacers bolt between the strut and the shock tower, while others are placed inside the strut assembly. These can also be used with stock suspension and generally provide more of a lift than shims do.
• Coilovers: The unique thing about coilovers is that a majority of them are adjustable (like these Icons). Similar to a strut, a coilover is a spring that is mounted around the outside of the shock. Coilovers tend to be priced higher than any other type of lift kit since they tend to perform better off-road. A lot of these coilovers offer a performance level of damping while maintaining better valving, and better cooling methods. Many companies offer different spring rates for coilovers which means your 4Runner isn’t going to sag with a full front bumper and winch. Coilovers also generally tend to have a larger shock diameter so they can withstand a much larger impact and faster compression/rebound without damaging the shock.
• Springs: When you order a full suspension lift, the springs are generally what provide the lift in the rear. They provide a little better ride quality than spacers do, and they are usually priced pretty fairly. Some springs will work with your stock shocks, but to obtain the best performance out of your lift kit, it is recommended that you order new shocks as well. Some companies sell the entire lift packaged as a kit, while others sell the spring and shock separately.

Types of Driving

Pictured: @expo_t4r Icon Stage 7 billet with Dobinsons 749V springs on 315/70/17 BFG KM3 (SCS BR6 17×9 -38 offset wheels)

It really comes down to what you plan on doing with your 4Runner. What kind of driving you do should point you in the right direction when it comes to choosing a lift.

• Daily Driving: There’s no shame in keeping your 4Runner on the pavement. If you don’t plan on taking it off-road often but want to give it a more aggressive look, then a shim or spacer lift could be perfect. On pavement, you most likely wouldn’t notice too much of a difference in ride quality but will notice some. Your suspension will feel either little tighter or looser while handling – it really depends on the kit and how high you go along with the level of compression/rebound damping you have your shocks set at. There are many variables that go into the ride quality of your suspension.
• Light Off-Roading: Sometimes you have to take the beaten path to find that perfect campsite. If you like cruising down fire roads or getting lost in nature, then maybe you need a lift kit that is a little more dirt road-friendly. A mid-level Bilstein 6112/5160 would work well in these types of situations. The Bilsteins are cost-effective and they work perfectly for light off-roading. Strut and spring pacers would also work fine for this situation but again the ride quality may a little rough on/off road.
• Advanced Off-Road: The more serious trails require more serious suspension. For trails like these, you may want to consider 2″+ coilovers. With these types of lifts, you’ll be able to flex your suspension a lot easier. The ride on the rough terrain will be a lot smoother and the truck will handle better on and off the trail.
• Fast & Hard Off-Roading: Extended travel coilovers with remote reservoirs are the best choice for drivers who enjoy going fast and hard off-road. One of the main reasons for this is the larger shock diameter (2.5″-3″) and more suspension travel (flex). Coilovers alone may offer increased shock size and travel, however, they can still overheat if you push them too hard. Coilovers with remote reservoirs are designed to prevent overheating. If you are really looking to push your suspension, get remote reservoirs.

Supreme Suspensions Shims + Others

Made out of carbon steel, the Supreme Suspensions shims are a great way to level out your 4Runner. They come in varying sizes and are very easy to install. They utilize the stock suspension so they are very cost-effective. Depending on where you buy the shims from, you may only have the option to buy 1 single shim. The reason for this is because shims are very useful when it comes to combating drive side lean, KDSS lean and even to increase ride height on high-end aftermarket coilovers. If you lifted your 4Runner, you may notice it tends to lean a little bit to the driver’s side. All you have to do is buy a single shim and install it on that side. Problem solved.

Companies like Ekstrom Designs and Westcott Designs both make shims for Toyota applications. If you are looking for a wide selection, go with Ekstrom Designs. If you have a TRD Pro, look at Westcott Designs.

Aftermarket UCAs and diff drop are not a requirement at this stage but can be added.

• Supreme Suspensions Shim Front Leveling Kit (.5″ – 1″):Check Price
• Ekstrom Designs Shim Kits: Check Price
• Westcott Designs Shim Kits for TRD Pros: Check Price
• Recommended Upper Control Arms (SPC): Check Price

ProComp Spacer Leveling Kit: 3″ front 2″ rear

A spacer lift is a great way to get your 4Runner off the ground. The ProComp 3″ level kit is very affordable and gives you the ability to put a little bit bigger tire size on your 4Runner. Since it’s a spacer lift the stock suspension is still utilized. This means that the ride quality may be compromised (more body roll, more nose dive, Etc.). Nonetheless, the 3″ ProComp spacer lift is a great way to give your 4Runner a bit of an aggressive look while working on a budget.

UCAs and diff drop are not a requirement, but of course, can be added.

• ProComp Spacer Level Kit: Check Price
• Recommended Upper Control Arms (SPC): Check Price

1. Old Man Emu (OME) Lift Kit: 2.5″ – 3″ front & rear

Old Man Emu (OME) is an Australian suspension company that tests all of its products in the Outback. This makes them one of the most reputable companies when it comes to off-road suspension. The OME lift kit provides a nice soft ride on the road and a bit stiffer ride off the pavement to prepare your ride quality for whoops, dips, and ruts. One of the unique things about OME is they provide a ton of options for spring rates (much like Dobinsons – however, OME is typically more affordable). With this lift kit, you have the option for light, medium, or heavy coils for the front and rear. This comes in handy if you have aftermarket bumpers. The added spring rate makes the added weight from the armor unnoticeable. Most companies will give the option to add these coils at checkout. A bigger sized tire would be doable as this lift kit offers around 3″ of lift. You are looking at a similar tire size option on this kit compared to the Bilstein (285/70R17 likely to fit with minimal trimming, and 275/70R17 will clear all day). This is a progressive shock so it would be perfect for someone who off-roads pretty frequently but also does a lot of daily driving.

UCAs and diff drop are not a requirement but are recommended for this kit.

• OME 2.5-3″ Lift Kit: Check Price
• OME UCAs: Check Price

2. Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Kit: 2.75″ front 1″ rear

The Eibach Pro-Truck lift kit is a great bang for your buck suspension for the 5th Gen. Eibach produces a majority of the springs on the market for many companies and is highly reputable. This suspension lift has amazing ride quality and is very affordable. The kit comes with everything you need to start your 4Runner build. For the price, it’s actually a decent size lift at 2.75″ in the front. It will fit a bigger size tire such as 33s while remaining completely daily driver-friendly. Not only does Eibach make their lift kits in the US, but they come with a million-mile warranty. Since this a complete suspension lift kit, you will likely see an increase in flex and articulation while off-roading.

Eibach uses a digressive piston with a linear feel at a bit higher speeds, making it a great lift for someone who tends to stay on the pavement but goes off-road a few times a year. This lift kit is great for the overlanding scene because the front struts allow for clip adjustments. Meaning however much weight is upfront, you’ll still be able to adjust and maintain your ride height. With that said, this is not a threaded shock body that will give you fine-tuning adjustments.

UCAs and diff drop are not a requirement but recommended for this kit.

• Eibach Pro-Truck Lift Kit: Check Price
• Recommended Upper Control Arms (SPC): Check Price

3. Bilstein 5160/6112 Lift Kit: 2.5″ front 1″ rear

The 5160/6112 combo is tried and true. This lift kit comes standard on some TRD models (2015-2017) and since this is a digressive shock, they offer a very comfortable ride for daily driving and light trails. With the 5160/6112 combo, you would be able to fit a little bit of a bigger tire (285/70R17 likely to fit with minimal trimming, and 275/70R17 will clear all day) as it is a pretty mild lift.

The 2.5″ 6112s are also clip-adjustable allowing you to dial in the lift height of your 4Runner. The rear 5160s come standard with a remote reservoir (5100 = no remote reservoir), which helps keep the heat under control. Toyota definitely knew what they were doing with they started equipping the TRD models with this lift – it’s been trusted for decades. Not only does it add a little bit of height to your 4Runner, but the ride quality is exceptional. This would be the perfect lift kit for someone who does most of their driving on the pavement but takes the road less traveled now and then.

UCAs and diff drop are not a requirement but recommended for this kit.

• Bilstein 5100/5100 (no UCA): Check Price
• Bilstein 5100/5100 (add UCAs): Check Price
• Bilstein 6112/5160:Check Price
• Recommended Upper Control Arms (SPC): Check Price

4. Falcon Tow Haul: 0-2″ front 1″ rear

If you’re coming from the Jeep world then you may have heard of Falcon or their parent company; Terra Flex. This kit is exceptional if you plan on doing a lot of towing with your 4Runner since it contains a digressive linear valve and comes with piggyback reservoirs to control the compression damping. That basically means this kit will give you optimal control on the road when it comes to daily driving and towing. The Falcon 2″ Tow/Haul Lift Kit always comes with bump stops which makes that ride quality even better. Since it is a 2″ lift kit your tire sizes will be limited (275/70R17 no trimming and 285/70R17 trimming likely) but you will still have a bit of an increase in flex on the trail. We actually ran this lift on one of our 4Runners and here is an example of trimming you will need to do for 285s to fit. Overall Falcon is a great brand with a proven background and offers a great middle-ground lift kit – especially if you plan on towing. Knowing those piggyback reservoirs are there to keep the shock cool is… very cool.

UCAs and diff drop are not a requirement, but of course, can be added.

• Falcon Sport Tow/ Haul Lift Kit: Check Price
• Recommended Upper Control Arms (SPC): Check Price

5. OME BP-51: 2.5″ front 2″ rear

The Old Man Emu BP-51 offers an internal bypass shock. Not only are the 2″ threaded shock bodies adjustable, but they have progressive valving. This means the ride quality on the road is soft but off-road the damping stiffens up a bit at higher speeds. The BP-51 kit can be compared to similar companies such as Icons, Kings, and Fox, but for a little bit less money. OME also offers the BP-51 for models with and without KDSS (different mount brackets), as well as varying spring rates. The BP-51 is a progressive shock which means it will go above and beyond off-road. This lift kit would be perfect for someone serious about getting into the off-road world without breaking the bank on Icons, Kings, or Fox with DSCs. We recommend pairing Old Man Emu’s upper control arms with the BP-51s. The OME uppers come with a greasable balljoint and are also adjustable so you can dial in your alignment to fit bigger tires all while keeping it street-able.

The BP-51 is really special because you can control the compression/rebound damping on all shocks. With a simple turn of the coilover adjustment or rear shock, you can set your preferred compression adjustment and preferred rebound adjustment (both independently of each other). The OME BP-51 was the first suspension company to really offer a fully adjustable system that you can dial in on your own. This suspension system is by far the most affordable, most DIY adjustable kit on the market. With the BP-51s, you can really dial in your suspension without going to a shock tuner.

UCAs and diff drop are recommended for this kit.

Find them online:

• Non-KDSS 4Runner
  • Mudify.com
• KDSS Equipped 4Runner
  • Mudify.com

6. Dobinsons 1″–3.5″ MRR Lift Kit

7. Icon Vehicle Dynamics: 0-3.5″ front 2″ rear

Icon suspension is one of the bigger names in the Toyota world. And for good reason. The 2.5″ adjustable shock body can give you up to 3.5″ of lift all while providing a good stiff ride (Icons are known for being stiffer than most) quality. This digressive shock will add about 3.5″ of lift so you will definitely have room to throw on some bigger tires, but keep in mind this kit will give you a little bit more travel. In other words, you may find yourself rubbing on a technical trail or while driving fast through the desert.

Not only does Icon offer a wide variety of suspension products, but they categorize their lift kits into stages. This makes it easy to compartmentalize which items you will be receiving in your kit. For example, the stage 1 kit just includes front coilovers, as well as rear shocks and springs. The most common kit is their stage 2 extended travel kit which includes extended travel coilovers, UCAs, rear springs, and rear shocks. You can top out at their stage 7 kit comes with coilovers with reservoirs, upper control arms, rear links, in other words, the whole 9 yards.

Icon makes their own upper control arms which comes in handy for dialing in your alignment after you lift your 4Runner. They give you two options, a tubular style, or a billet aluminum boxed style control arm. Both styles are not only designed to be much stronger than stock control arms, but they come standard with built-in caster correction. They also feature Icon’s very own Delta Joint. The Delta Joint provides both features from a standard ball joint and a uniball. This allows for full articulation and very little chance of binding within the joint.

UCAs and diff drop are highly recommended for this kit. If you choose a 3″ Icon overland spring, we recommend extended brake lines.

Stages:

• Icon Stage 1: Check Price
• Icon Stage 2: Check Price
• Icon Stage 3: Check Price
• Icon Stage 4: Check Price
• Icon Stage 5: Check Price

8. FOX: 0-3″ front 2-3″ rear

Fox is another company that has quite a reputation for being an outstanding shock. The 2.5″ progressive shock is not only adjustable but an absolute beast off-road. These coilovers also come with a remote reservoir which helps in cooling the shock. But that’s not all. The reservoir can also double as an adjuster for the Dual Speed Compression (DSC) if you choose to opt for that feature. This allows you to change the way the coilover performs, whether you’re driving fast or slow, on-road or off-road, etc. In other words, you can adjust the shock to perform more linearly than progressive. Many guys are starting to move to Fox given their reputation and credibility. And now, Toyota is equipping all their TRD Pros with these shocks. We recommend aftermarket control arms with the fox coilovers.

UCAs and diff drop are highly recommended for this kit.

Kit Options:

• Fox 2.5 Lift Kit: Check Price
• Fox 2.5 Lift Kit with DSC (Dual Speed Compression): Check Price

9. KING: 3″ front 2″ rear

King shocks is a very reputable brand that has been in the off-road industry for quite some time. They manufacture different suspension components for pretty much every application imaginable. King coilovers are a 2.5″ adjustable coilover that comes with or without a remote reservoir. These coilovers can be customized to give you more travel out of your 4Runner as well as providing a great ride quality. This is a linear shock so they are essentially the best of both worlds when it comes to shock valving. You can make a King shock more progressive by stacking a shim on top of the coilover. Upper control arms are recommended for this suspension set up to maintain maximum durability and articulation. Kings are well known as one of the best shocks in the market.

UCAs and diff drop are highly recommended for this kit.

Kit Options:

• King Performance Lift Kit: Check Price
• King Performance Lift Kit (with Adjusters): Check Price

10. Bilstein B8 8112 – 0-3″ front 2″ rear

Bilstein hit it out of the park with their B8 8112 coilover. What makes the B8 8112 stand out from the other coilovers is the 8112s use a triple piston design. The triple piston design allows for three stages of compression valving, and two stages of rebound valving. This means that the 8112s would provide excellent ride quality on and off the road. Like the other coilovers, the 8112s are fully adjustable offering up to 3″ of lift. Not only are they equipped with a remote reservoir to assist with cooling, but the telescoping internal compression stop eliminates the need for an external bump stop. These coilovers are rebuildable and come standard with a 2-year warranty.

UCAs and diff drop are highly recommended for this kit.

Kit Options:

• Bilstein B8 8112 Performance Lift Kit: Check Price
• Recommended Upper Control Arms (SPC): Check Price

What’s for you?

Pictured: @asigiamchris Kings 2.5 with remote reservoirs long travel custom length for Total Chaos +2″ kit. Part# TC5119-03 +2 long travel kit. Extended sway bar and RCV long travel axles. Strapped. Gusseted Spindles. Cooper EVO 35X12.5×17 on Black Rhino PRIMM 17×9, -12 offset.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with keeping your 4Runner on the pavement. If you don’t plan on taking it off-road that often or at all, then there is no sense in paying thousands of dollars for off-road coilovers. In this situation, spacers or shims may be more than enough. They will still provide an aggressive look and give you some ground clearance if you ever need to take it off-road. Since spacers are put on top of the stock suspension components, the ride quality may be a little stiff, but nothing majorly horrendous, however, that is to be debated.

Mild Fire Roads/ Beginner Off-road:

Sometimes that perfect campsite requires taking the path less traveled. A lift kit, without a doubt, is peace of mind when leaving the pavement. Especially if it’s a fire-road that does not get maintained regularly. If that’s the case then maybe you want to invest a little more in your suspension. Although a spacer lift will give you the added ground clearance, this is where you would start to notice the lack of ride quality. This is why we recommend a suspension lift for mild fire roads or easier trails. This type of lift handles great on pavement and off-road all without breaking the bank. Not only will you see an increase of articulation, but it will also be an all-around smoother ride.

Great Options

• Bilstein 5160/6112 2.5″ Lift Kit
• Eibach Pro-Truck 2″ Lift Kit
• Falcon Tow Haul 2″ Lift Kit
• Old Man Emu (OME) 3″ Lift Kit

Moderate/ Advanced Off-Roading:

Some of the coolest places your 4Runner will take you are accessible by moderate to difficult trails. This means it’s time to start thinking of more advanced suspension lifts. A good coilover will take whatever you throw at it. They are designed to give you more travel which means you’ll see an increase in articulation as well as providing a plush ride quality. Not to mention they’re adjustable so you can tune your front end to get the perfect amount of lift. Coilovers come with a hefty price tag so if you don’t plan on off-roading frequently, then maybe they aren’t for you.

Great Options

• OME Bp-51
• Icon Stage 2
• Bilstein B8 8112
• King Shocks
• Fox with DSCs
• Optional Long Travel Suspension: Total Chaos
• Optional Long Travel Suspension: Dirt King

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, whichever lift kit you decide to go with must suit your intended needs. Not only does suspension improve the look of your 4Runner, but it also greatly increases performance on and off the road. The added performance and looks make suspension the perfect first mod for your 4Runner.

Whether you’re just building a clean daily, an overland build, or a bad-ass crawler, a lift should be one of the first mods you buy, next to tires. This opens up the possibilities for your next mods such as bigger tires or front and rear armor. Not to mention it’ll drastically change the look of your 4Runner. Something as simple as adding a shim to level out your truck can make it look much better than it looked before.

Depending on whether you choose a progressive, digressive, or linear shock setup, the difference in ride quality will be noticeable. This is why it’s important to evaluate what you want to get out of your suspension first. Do your research, find out what would work best for you. What you choose to buy shouldn’t be influenced by what someone on Instagram claims to be the best. You should consider looking into more than one lift and compare them side by side to find out which you prefer.