Best Lift Kit for Ford F-250 Super Duty to Enhance its Off-Road Abilities

The F-250 Super Duty is Ford’s entry-level heavy-duty truck, aiming to provide its owner with more utility than the famous F-150. With an imposing grille and impressive payload capacity, this is the truck you want when the apocalypse comes. Everything about it is solid, from the massive V8 engine to the beefed-up chassis; the Ford F-250 Super Duty has the towing capacity to move Mount Rushmore!

Of course, since there’s no such thing as “big enough” you might still want to install a suspension lift kit. Why? Well, first of all, because it’s pretty cool and your truck looking good is as vital as having gas in the tank, right? More seriously, though, the higher ground clearance will allow you to install beefier off-road tires, ultimately allowing you to navigate more challenging terrains and trails. Also, the better suspension components will make for a better ride both on- and off-road and allow you to carry even heavier loads — which is why you got the truck in the first place anyway, right?

However, not all lift kits are created equal and some cheaper alternatives (or cheap Chinese models) will sometimes perform even worse than the stock suspension. Hence, we’ve created a comprehensive list of the best lift kits available for the Ford F-250 Super Duty truck (at least those that we were aware of) to make sure you invest in something that you won’t regret after a week.

Enjoy!

Ford F250 Super Duty Lift Kit Reviews

1. ReadyLift Suspension 2.5″ Front Lift Kit with Bilstein Shocks – Budget Pick

If you are looking for a lift kit for your Ford F-250 Super Duty but have to work within a budget, this one might be the best option for you. The ReadyLift Suspension 2.5″ lift kit comes with two front coil springs and four Bilstein shocks giving your truck a serious bump in off-road-readiness, without costing an arm and a leg. Nonetheless, it’s important to keep your expectations on the lower side since it’s not the utmost when it comes to lifting range — but at that price point, you can’t really expect a 5″ lift either.

Still, the new springs and shocks work together to improve ride comfort, which is an advantage if you are driving long distances or through rough terrain, while also allowing you to carry heavier loads and run bigger and wider tires.

The ReadyLift Suspension 2.5″ lift kit also includes a bump stop extension and new sway bar mount extensions for the front, keeping the stock sway bar in the appropriate position while driving. Even better, anyone with moderate mechanical skills can install it on the truck in about three hours — all you’ll need are some basic tools and a bit of practice with suspension systems.

However, it’s important to note that this lift kit only works on diesel versions and the manufacturer does not recommend installing it on the Tremor model, either. Still, if you are lucky enough to be running coal, this one is sure worth considering.

Highlighted features

• Fits 2017-2021 Ford Super Duty F-250 (diesel)
• Lift: 2.5″
• Quality Bilstein shocks
• Made in the US
• Short installation time

Pros

• Allows for bigger tires (Up to 35”)
• Easy to install
• Decent 2.5” lift
• Comes with several upgraded parts
• Levels the truck as well

Cons

• Compatible only with diesel models
• Kit doesn’t include an upgraded sway bar
• Not recommended for use with the F-250 Tremor

Find your Ford F-250 service manual here!

2. Cognito Motorsports 3-Inch Elite Lift Kit with Fox FSRR 2.5 Shocks

In second place comes the Cognito 3-Inch Elite Lift Kit, another excellent option for the Ford F-250. The kit comes with front coil springs, giving your truck a 3-inch lift at the front and a 1-inch lift at the rear. The asymmetrical lift results in a leveled truck that allows you to use 37″ tires on all wheels without trimming.

Moreover, the springs have a progressive spring rate, significantly enhancing ride quality while also improving handling at high speed, a feature that several lift kits lack. It also comes with a heavy-duty track bar specifically made to work with the front 3″ lift, and the fixed length makes it easier to install.

Furthermore, you get Fox FSRR 2.5 shocks with DSC reservoirs, successfully tested for performance in extreme off-roading conditions, 3-inch cast steel blocks for the rear, and heavy-duty zinc plated U-bolts. If you choose to put this in on your own, it will take about 8 hours; hence, many buyers prefer having the kit installed at a professional repair shop — I would suggest getting your hands on a couple of cold ones, plan a weekend and enjoy a job well done instead, but that’s just me.

Of course, this model is also not the most hardcore off-road-oriented model out there but if you are looking for a lift kit that will make your truck looks good, allow you to install bigger tires, and do so without breaking the bank, this one is a serious contender.

Highlighted features

• Fits 2020-2021 Ford F-250 and F-350
• Lift: 3″ front/1″ rear
• Fox FSRR 2.5 shocks with DSC reservoirs
• Progressive-rate coil springs
• Direct bolt-on installation
• 8-hour install time (DIY)
• Made in the USA

Pros

• Great 3” lift in the front
• Excellent fit for 2020 to present F-250 Super Duty
• Allows up to 37” tires
• Improved ride quality and height
• Lifetime warranty with tech support

Cons

• Lengthy DIY install time.

3. Revtek 4.5″ Front/2.5″ Rear Coil Spring Suspension System w/ Radius Arms

If you are looking for an all-in-one solution, this is what you need. Revtek’s model is sold as a complete kit, so you won’t need to order any additional parts to make it work. Moreover, the components are produced using OEM specs but with higher quality materials, resulting in an easy bolt-on installation.

The coil springs give the front of your truck a 4.5” lift while the rear gets lifted 2.5”, good enough for a level truck capable of carrying up to 35″ tires. The custom OEM-matching black springs are designed to improve the ride quality and give you proper damping when carrying heavy loads or going off-road. And of course, the entire system works with your truck’s suspension geometry to ensure that safety and reliability aren’t compromised — the same can’t be said of most “bigger” lifts that can sometimes change the geometry, causing tires to wear out unevenly, busting out rubber bushings, etc.

It’s worth mentioning that while the manufacturer recommends you stick to 35 inches as your top limit, you can very well run 37s with minor adjustments, as there will definitely be some rubbing — but nothing that a little elbow grease can’t fix!

Highlighted features

• Fits 2005-2007 F-250 and F-350 models
• Lift: 4.5″ front/2.5″ rear
• Heavy-duty components
• Custom front coil springs

Pros

• Easy bolt-on installation
• Maintains factory suspension geometry
• OEM-specs component made with superior materials
• Allows up to 35-inch tires

Cons 

• 37-inch tires will rub against the body when steering

4. Tuff Country 4 Inch Lift Kit

The Tuff Country 4 Inch Lift Kit starts to be what I would call “a serious lift kit,” providing a 4-inch lift at the front/3-inch lift at the rear, resulting in a leveled-out truck that can accommodate larger tires while also reducing forward roll. The recommended tire size is 35” X 12.5”, and while some people have reported success with 37 inches, the manufacturer does not recommend it. 

This kit includes front EZ leaf springs and 5.5-inch cast iron blocks but does not come with coil springs. Despite that, the handling won’t be compromised, thanks to a custom drop pitman arm making sure your steering stays as the manufacturer intended, and a track bar relocating bracket to maintain the truck’s geometry.

It’s important to keep in mind that, when going as big as a 4″ lift, the ride quality is bound to suffer. Nonetheless, Tuff Country’s kit is surprisingly pleasant to drive, even on longer journeys. Moreover, this model requires you to replace your factory shock absorbers and install longer ones and unfortunately, those are sold separately. Still, the entire kit is made in the USA and comes with a limited lifetime warranty — you simply can’t go wrong with this one!

Highlighted features

• Fits 2000-2004 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty 4WD
• Lift: 4″ front/ 3″ rear
• Includes front leaf springs, track bar bracket, drop pitman arm, and 5.5″ cast iron blocks
• Made in the USA

Pros

• Renowned manufacturer
• Allows up to 35-inch tires
• Quality materials
• Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

• Factory shocks replacement required

5. Skyjacker 6-Inch Lift Kit — Editor’s Pick

Skyjacker doesn’t need an introduction in the off-roading community and true to its reputation, this impressive 6-inch lift kit is one of the best options on the market if you intend to go quite on the higher side. The new front coil springs and shock absorbers work to improve your truck’s off-road performance by increasing the suspension length (obviously) and letting you install up to 37-inch tires comfortably, without the need to trim anything. However, you should be prepared for the corresponding increase in road noise and fuel consumption if you decide to go with something as big as 37s.

Moreover, since the manufacturer never half-ass anything, every component of the Skyjacker 6 Inch Lift Kit has been powder coated in black to match the underside of the truck and reduces corrosion damage, especially from road salt during winter as well as rocks, dirt, and sand from the trails. 

It’s important to mention that it doesn’t come cheap, though, but it’s worth every penny.

Highlighted features

• Fits 2008-2010 Ford F-250 Super Duty
• Lift: 6″
• Brand-backed quality components
• Corrosion-resistant coating
• High buyer rating
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pros

• Famous manufacturer
• Impressive lift
• Sturdy construction
• Improved ride handling
• Suitable for tires up to 37-inch

Cons

• Might be a bit much for most

6. Superlift 6″ Lift Kit — Premium Pick

The Superlift 6” suspension lift kit with KING front coilovers and rear shock absorbers illustrate Superlift’s precision engineering and quality craftsmanship. The front coilovers and the rear shocks have reservoirs allowing you to customize the stiffness using a knob, going from super-stiff for highway use to super soft for challenging trails. The suspension system also features a tubular 4-link arms design for easy installation.

The heavy-duty arms combined with the REFLEX bushings improve your vehicle’s ability to dampen vibrations and give your wheels more flexibility. The entire assembly improves your F-250’s suspension control and makes climbing big rocks a breeze. Moreover, you get to choose between Superlift and 5100 Series Bilstein shocks to go with the lift kit — if that’s not customizability at its finest, I don’t know what is.

Worth mentioning, this kit comes with Superlift’s limited lifetime warranty on fabricated components and a 1-year warranty on parts that wear out, such as bushings and shocks. It also comes with all the necessary constituents, including a track bar relocation bracket, front sway bar correction, and a custom pitman’s arm. Keep in mind that if your F-250 has a 2-piece rear driveshaft, you’ll need to purchase a carrier-bearing spacer separately.

However, if you are looking for a lift kit that will make your friends jealous, this should be right up your alley!

Highlighted features

• Fits 2005-2007 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty
• Lift: 6″
• Superlift or 5100 Series Bilstein shocks
• Adjustable front and rear shocks
• Superlift Edition KING coilovers
• 4-link design system
• Shipped with all necessary components

Pros

• Moderately difficult to install
• Excellent 6-inch lift
• 7-hour DIY install time
• Includes step-by-step installation guide
• 1-year warranty on wearable parts

Cons

• Some models will require additional parts sold separately

7. ICON Vehicle Dynamics 7″ Stage 1 Suspension System

Alright, so let’s start by saying that this one is really only for the very serious off-road enthusiasts looking to tackle extremely rough terrain and straight-up rock faces — a 7″ lift is definitely not for the faint-hearted. As a result, the Icon Vehicle Dynamics 7″ Stage 1 Suspension System comes as standard with premium quality dual-rate steel front coil springs, working together with a set of four Aluminum 2.0 Series shock absorbers providing a huge 7″ lift, with a corresponding increase in your vehicle’s off-roading ability.

The shocks’ anodized aluminum body coupled with the steel shaft is more efficient at dissipating heat, significantly increasing durability, which is vital with a lift that high. Still, a setup as wild as this one will enable you to install 37-inch tires without a problem. However, anything larger than that will require further modifications, including trimming your fenders and reinforcing the suspension.

Worth mentioning, the Icon Vehicle Dynamics 7″ Stage 1 Suspension System Lift Kit will only work with diesel variants — gas models will require the exhaust to be modified to clear the front driveshaft. F-250s with a manual transmission are also not compatible.

Icon offers a lifetime warranty on the fabricated components, including the heavy-duty radius arm drop brackets, which is not to neglect. Meanwhile, the shock absorbers carry a 1-year warranty, while the Delta Joint has a 5-year warranty.

Highlighted features

• Fits 2011-2016 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty (diesel/AT only)
• Lift: 7″
• Dual-rate coil springs
• Heavy-duty radius arm drop packets
• Anodized aluminum shock body

Pros

• Trustworthy manufacturer
• Excellent maximum 7” lift
• Premium quality shocks and coil overs
• No drive shaft modifications required (diesel only)
• Decreased body roll
• Runs larger tires up to 37”
• Allows you to put up to 20” wheels

Cons

• Gas models require the exhaust to be modified

8. Superlift 8″ Lift Kit w/ Replacement Radius Arms

The second Superlift kit on this list combines precision engineering and quality crafting to give you a noticeable handling improvement. It includes a set of high clearance tubular arms, designed to fit into your truck’s factory mounts and work with Cleaveite® rubber bushings for superior vibration damping. The arms feature a “True Flat” jack plate surface with alignment cam bolts included, featuring an inside offset for the maximum turning radius. Moreover, the entire assembly maintains the OEM caster and camber alignment to provide the same level of safety.

The front gets a solid 8-inch lift, while the rear blocks add 6.5-inch, matching the additional height at the front. At the same time, the add-a-leaf system maintains the vehicle’s original carrying capacity while keeping the rest of the build intact. Moreover, you get to choose between Superlift, Bilstein 5100 series or Fox® performance series shocks for both front and rear, and optional KING Shock coilovers too.

Worth mentioning, the manufacturer claims a 9 hour DIY installation time, although a professional auto shop could get it done in much less. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty on fabricated parts and a detailed step-by-step installation guide. However, if your F-250 Super Duty has a 2-piece rear driveshaft, you’ll need a carrier-bearing spacer (but so also do all extreme lift kits like this one). Also, if your truck has factory top-mount leaf springs, you will need to purchase longer U-Bolts.

That being said, if you only want the best of the best for your truck and budget is not so much a problem (I won’t lie, this one’s pricey), this is the lift kit you want!

Highlighted features

• Fits 2005-2007 Ford F-250 and F-350
• Lift: 8″ front/6.5″ rear
• Two shock absorber options
• Optional KING Shock coilovers
• “True Flat” jack plate

Pros

• Excellent 8” lift on your truck
• Decent 9 hour install time 
• High-quality shock options
• Improved ride quality and handling
• Rear leaf springs for load capacity correction
• Retains caster and camber alignment specs
• Can run up to 38-inch tires
• Limited lifetime warranty on the components

Cons

• Specific models will require additional parts

How to Choose The Best Lift Kit for your F-250 Super Duty

Most truck owners will never experience the beauty of having a lifted truck; the clear view of the road ahead and the imposing look alone are worth every penny, and we’re not even talking about how good you’ll feel the next time you’re the only one who can go over that huge tree truck without getting stuck. Still, selecting the perfect lift kit for your F-250 Super Duty isn’t as straightforward as it may seem at first glance and can even sometimes be a bit tricky. To help you with that, we’ll go over some of the factors to consider when shopping around.

Purpose

The reason why you are looking for a lift kit in the first place is crucial. If you frequently go off-road and spend your whole weekend tearing down trails, you’ll need a lift kit that can allow for more flexibility and undercarriage protection. On the other hand, if you need your truck to be higher because you carry and tow heavy loads, you’ll need something significantly higher or much stiffer.

However, if you are getting one just because it looks really good or you want to fit bigger wheels under there, you can go for any of the above. Still, it might be worth looking for a more affordable model since you won’t be climbing rock walls anyway — you definitely won’t need models with external reservoirs for instance.

Tires sizes and ride height

The size of the tires you intend to put on your truck will also influence your purchase decision. Certain lifts can only let you run up to 35 inches, while others will allow up to 39 inches. Of course, with a bit of DIY magic, you can always push it and modify your truck to fit larger tires by making adjustments like trimming the fender. However, if your truck is fairly recent, that might not be the best idea as it will surely void your warranty — not to mention that, depending on where you live, you could get in serious trouble with the law.

As a general rule, larger tires require sturdier and more complex suspension components to handle the extra weight and stress, and the higher ground clearance may add some challenges to city driving. Big tires are also noisier and will significantly increase fuel consumption — but of course, if you bought a big-engined pickup, you were probably not looking for a discrete and fuel-efficient vehicle anyway, right?.

Vehicle model

F-250 Super Duty lift kits will vary depending on the model year. For instance, a suspension lift kit made for a second-generation truck will not work with a 2018 model; simple as that.

Moreover, some kits are specific to gas or diesel models, while others can be altered to work with both. However, in most cases, they will require you to purchase extra components from the kit’s manufacturer (like with Superlift, for instance). That being said, no matter the lift kit you decide to go for, make sure to keep an eye on the fitment/compatibility specs before placing your order.

Type of lift

Different lift kits come with various components, affecting the installation complexity and performance. Some more basic lift kits are easy to install and take just about three hours to complete, making them an afternoon affair.

However, more extensive kits can take up to nine hours to put together and require a good amount of experience to complete without compromising vehicle safety. Notably, as a general rule, it’s safe to assume that the higher the life, the more complex the installation process, simply due to the sheer number of components to be replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If this is the first time you are attempting a modification of this magnitude on your truck, it is ok to have some doubts. To bring the stress level down a little and ensure you know what you are getting into, here are some of the questions we’ve heard the most:

Will a lift kit ruin my truck?

On the contrary — when installed correctly, a lift kit adds a lot of advantages to your truck. However, it’s true that if it’s not done following the rules of the art, it can significantly reduce the expected lifespan of several suspension components, including ball joints, tie-rod ends, bushings, control arms, and so on.

Moreover, an improperly installed lift kit can also affect your steering and handling. If you suspect you do not have the requisite knowledge to install one on your own, I would highly suggest having it installed by a professional repair shop while you take notes so you can do it next time.

How long will a lift kit last after being installed?

With good care, lift kits can last as long as you have the car, or at least as long as any other stock suspension. Still, most kits will work for at least ten years with the correct care, but of course, that means you’ll need to be diligent here and inspect your truck on a regular basis and replace parts when needed.

Will a lift kit void my warranty?

Yes — unfortunately, installing a lift kit will more often than not void your manufacturer’s warranty. However, that is if your truck is still covered, which is probably why most lifted cars were either made in the year 2016 or before.

Put simply, in most cases, OEM manufacturer warranties do not cover lifts anything higher than 2 inches. As a result, if you intend to buy a new truck, I would suggest asking the dealer about OEM-approved lift kits. They usually cost a lot more and are rarely as extreme as the bigger kits mentioned above but at least, you won’t be voiding your warranty right away.

What are some of the benefits of installing a lift kit?

Besides the more aggressive look, there are actually tangible benefits to installing a suspension lift kit. To begin with, you’ll get better visibility in congested traffic, and you’ll notice obstacles sooner when off-roading. Upgraded shocks also make the ride smoother, even when the truck is loaded.

And of course, lift kits also let you run wider and beefier tires, which sure look great but can also run on lower air pressure, providing significantly more grip when traveling on a bumpy trail. Finally, the higher clearance and longer wheel travel are extremely helpful when off-roading.

No need to mention that if you only drive your truck in the city, you won’t be getting many benefits out of a lift kit — will still look good, though!

Will a lift kit impact my truck’s fuel efficiency?

On its own, a lift kit won’t technically increase fuel consumption, or at least not by a noticeable margin. However, the combination of taller, wider, and heavier tires will undoubtedly make your truck a tad thirstier.

Verdict

If you are into off-roading or frequently need to carry heavy loads, lifting your truck is a no-brainer. Not only does it open a world of new possibilities when the literal road ends, but it also gives your truck a much meaner look — and let’s admit it, that’s not to neglect.

Luckily, contenders are many, and you will, without a doubt, find one that works for your F-250.

If you are working on a budget, or it’s your first time installing a lift kit, try the ReadyLift Suspension 2.5″ Front Lift Kit with Bilstein Shocks. It’s not crazy complicated, won’t break the bank, and is a good starting point to enter the world of lifted trucks.

Meanwhile, the Superlift 6″ Lift Kit is an excellent choice if you have a bigger budget; all components are as premium as it gets and backed by SuperLift’s reputation as an industry leader in the world of off-roading equipment and accessories.

And if you are looking for something a little more in the mid-range, the Skyjacker 6-Inch Lift Kit is the most cost-effective option — you just can’t go wrong with this one!