Do I need to regear after lifting my Jeep JK?

Lifting alone doesn't require regearing - tire size does. Stock 3.21 or 3.73 gears work with 33s. For 35s, 4.10 gears work adequately. For 37s or better performance with 35s, 4.88 gears are recommended.

Best JK Lift Kits (2024) - Top Picks Reviewed

Last updated: January 30, 2026. Prices verified.

Lifting a JK is the first mod most owners make. But choosing the right lift kit? That’s where things get complicated.

After testing dozens of setups on our own JKs (and helping hundreds of readers with theirs), here’s what actually works.

How Much Lift Do You Need?

Before you buy anything, answer this: What tires do you want to run?

Tire Size	Minimum Lift	Recommended Lift
33”	Stock-2”	2-2.5”
35”	2.5”	3-3.5”
37”	3.5-4”	4”+ with high-line fenders

More lift isn’t always better. Each inch of lift:

Raises your center of gravity
Changes your driveline angles
May require additional modifications

Types of JK Lift Kits

Budget Lifts (Under $500)

What they are: Coil spacers or basic spring lift with stock-length arms.

Best for: Running 33s on a budget, mild trail use.

Watch out for: Death wobble if components aren’t quality. Harsh ride on cheap springs.

Mid-Range Lifts ($800-1,500)

What they are: Quality springs, adjustable track bar, possibly adjustable control arms.

Best for: 35” tires, regular trail use, daily driving.

The sweet spot for most JK owners.

Premium Lifts ($2,000-4,000)

What they are: Long-arm kits, high-quality shocks (Fox, King, etc.), full geometry correction.

Best for: 37” tires, serious off-roading, maximum flex.

Our Top Picks by Category

Best Overall: Teraflex 2.5” Sport ST2

The kit I recommend most. Here’s why:

Quality springs that don’t sag
Proper track bar bracket to eliminate wobble
Works great with 35s
Reasonable price point

Price: ~$1,200

What’s included: Springs, track bar bracket, shock extensions, bump stops

What you’ll still need: Adjustable control arms (recommended), new shocks (optional but worth it)

Best Budget: Rough Country 2.5” Lift

I know, I know - Rough Country gets hate. But their current 2.5” kit is honestly decent for the money.

Gets you in 33s comfortably, 35s with some rubbing
Lifetime warranty
Easy install

Price: ~$400

What’s included: Springs, spacers, shock extensions, sway bar links

The catch: You’ll want to upgrade shocks eventually. The springs are fine.

Best for 35s: Metalcloak 3.5” Duroflex

If you’re running 35s and actually wheeling, this is the kit.

Best-in-class control arms
No death wobble - ever
Rides better than stock

Price: ~$2,800 (with shocks)

What’s included: Full kit with springs, adjustable arms, track bar, Fox shocks

Best for 37s: Synergy Manufacturing 4” Suspension

For the serious builds. This kit does it right.

Long-arm geometry
Proper CV driveshaft angles
Built for abuse

Price: ~$4,500+ (complete)

What’s included: Full long-arm kit, springs, track bar, all brackets

What Else You’ll Need

Here’s what the “complete” lift kits don’t tell you:

Likely Needed:

Adjustable track bar (if not included): $150-300
Extended brake lines: $80-150
Alignment: $100-150

For 35s and Up:

Regear (4.88s or 5.13s): $1,500-2,500 installed - note that Rubicons come with 4.10 gears which work well with 35s
Extended sway bar links: $50-100

The Bottom Line

Budget	My Pick	Tire Size	Notes
Under $500	Rough Country 2.5”	33”	Gets the job done
$1,000-1,500	Teraflex 2.5” ST2	35”	Best value
$2,000-3,000	Metalcloak 3.5”	35”	Premium daily driver
$4,000+	Synergy 4”	37”	Serious wheeling

Ready to Buy?

Check prices at our recommended retailers:

ExtremeTerrain - Good prices, free shipping
Quadratec - Great customer service
Amazon - Sometimes has deals on Rough Country

JK Death Wobble: Causes and Fixes - Prevent issues after lifting
Rubicon vs Sport vs Sahara - Which trim is best for lifting?
The Complete JK Buyer’s Guide - Buying a JK to build?

Have questions about which lift is right for your build? Drop a comment or email us with your setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to lift a JK?

Budget lifts start around $400 (Rough Country 2.5”). Quality mid-range kits run $1,000-1,500 (Teraflex). Premium long-arm setups cost $3,000-5,000+. Add $400-800 for professional installation and $100-150 for alignment. Don’t forget hidden costs: adjustable control arms, extended brake lines, and possibly new shocks.

Can I install a lift kit myself?

Yes, if you’re mechanically inclined and have basic tools. Budget spacer lifts are straightforward. Full spring replacement lifts require more skill. Long-arm kits are complex - consider professional installation. Plan for a full weekend for most installs.

Will lifting my JK cause death wobble?

Not directly, but cheap lifts with poor geometry correction increase the risk. Quality lifts include proper track bar brackets and adjustable components to maintain correct geometry. Always get an alignment after lifting, and torque check all fasteners after 500 miles.

What size tires can I fit with a 2.5 inch lift?

33” tires fit easily with no rubbing. 35” tires fit with minor trimming (fender flare bolts, pinch seam). For 35s without any rubbing, consider 3-3.5” of lift. Tire size also depends on wheel backspacing and fender flare style.

Do I need to regear after lifting?

Lifting alone doesn’t require regearing - tire size does. Stock 3.21 or 3.73 gears work with 33s. For 35s, 4.10 gears (Rubicon stock) work adequately. For 37s or better performance with 35s, 4.88 gears are recommended. Expect $1,500-2,500 for a regear.

What’s the best lift height for daily driving?

2-2.5” offers the best balance of capability and daily driving comfort. You can run 33-35” tires without significantly affecting on-road handling. Higher lifts (3.5”+) noticeably change the driving dynamics - higher center of gravity, more body roll, and different steering feel.

Contents

Best JK Lift Kits in 2026: Complete Guide