If you own a Toyota Tundra, you may have noticed the front end sits lower than the rear. This uneven suspension causes several problems. Installing a leveling kit is an easy, affordable way to lift the front end and make your truck level.
A leveling kit provides many benefits for Tundra owners. This article will discuss what a leveling kit is, Best Toyota Tundra Leveling Kits, why you need one for a Tundra, the pros and cons of installing one, and the steps for a DIY installation. Let’s get started!
What is a Leveling Kit?
A leveling kit is a simple suspension modification that lifts the front of a truck up to match the height of the rear. This helps to level out the overall stance of the truck for an even look.
Leveling kits add 1 to 3 inches of lift by using spacers or extended struts. The small lift levels the truck without drastically altering the suspension or ride quality.
Best Leveling Kits for Toyota Tundra in 2023
#1. Rough Country Leveling Kit for Toyota Tundra (Best Overall)
The Rough Country leveling kit is hands down one of the best options for lifting your 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra. This high-quality kit helps level out the front and rear of your truck, giving it a smoother ride whether you’re off-roading or just driving around town.
The strut extensions and spacer shims allow you to fine-tune the lift height to get the perfect level angle. Additional skid plates and differential spacers help maintain stability and control. With the kit installed, you can fit up to 33″ tires without any rubbing or clearance issues.
Not only does this kit improve performance, but it also makes your Tundra look badass with a more aggressive, lifted stance. Just be aware that while Rough Country claims quick installation, you may need a few more hours than advertised to get the job done right. But it’s worth the extra effort for how well this kit enhances your Tundra’s capability and style.
Pros:
- Levels out front and rear of truck for smoother ride quality
- Allows fitting larger 33″ tires without rubbing issues
- Strut extensions and shims allow customizing lift height
- Maintains stability and control with skid plates and diff spacers
- Gives truck a more aggressive, lifted stance
Cons:
- Installation may take longer than the estimated time
#2. ReadyLift 69-5276 Toyota Tundra Leveling Kit (Editor’s Choice)
If you’re looking to lift your Toyota Tundra, I recommend checking out the 3″ lift kit from ReadyLift. This reputable company makes high-quality suspension kits that can boost your truck’s ground clearance without compromising the factory ride quality.
The kit includes some nice features like 2″ rear spacers, sway bar drop brackets, and skid plate spacers. The precise upper strut extensions are aluminum constructed for durability. With the adjustable skid plate spacers, you can fine-tune the height to your liking.
The ReadyLift kit can accommodate up to 33″ tires on your Tundra, which will help smooth out the ride on and off-road. Just keep in mind that installation can be tricky, so you may need a professional mechanic’s help to get it on correctly. But overall, this lift kit can give your Tundra a nice boost while still providing a comfortable daily drive.
Pros:
- Increases ground clearance of Toyota Tundra by 3 inches for better off-road capability
- Comes with 2″ rear spacers and sway bar drop brackets for a level lift
- Includes aluminum constructed upper strut extensions for durability
- Adjustable skid plate spacers allow customization of lift height
- Can accommodate up to 33″ tires for a smoother ride on and off-road
Cons:
- Installation process can be tricky and may require help from a professional mechanic
#3. KSP 3″ Front and 2″ Rear Leveling lift kit fit for Tundra
The KSP Performance leveling kit for the Toyota Tundra is built tough to handle whatever you throw at it, whether cruising down the highway or climbing rocks off-road.
Compatible with most Tundra models, this kit lifts the front end of your truck by 3 inches, using sturdy aluminum billet spacers and bolts that won’t warp under pressure. The 2-inch lift in the rear levels out the stance.
It comes with a lock design featuring a gusset plate for stability, keeping your truck riding smoothly no matter the terrain. The kit also includes longer U-bolts to make sure it fits securely.
Owners say this durable leveling kit really improves the look of their Tundra while allowing them to install larger tires. Just note that some report the actual front lift is slightly less than the advertised 3 inches.
Overall, if you want to boost your truck’s capability and style, the KSP Performance kit is one of the best choices for your Tundra.
Pros:
- Lifts the front end 3 inches to level out stance and accommodate larger tires
- Durable aluminum billet construction won’t warp under pressure
- Lock design with gusset plate provides stability on- and off-road
- Longer u-bolts ensure secure fit
- Compatible with most Tundra models
Cons:
- Front lift may be slightly less than the advertised 3 inches
#4. Dynofit Leveling Lift Kits for Toyota Tundra
Give your Toyota Tundra a boost in style and performance with the FF-K016 leveling kit. This front lift raises the front end by 3 inches and the rear by 2 inches, leveling out the stance for a rugged yet sleek look.
The premium aluminum spacers absorb shocks and bumps in the road, while resisting corrosion over time. Four sturdy U-bolts keep everything securely in place.
With this easy-to-install kit, you can fit larger tires without rubbing. Even when loaded up, the durable aluminum maintains its strength and shape.
While great for improving your truck’s aesthetic, this kit isn’t ideal for hardcore off-roading. But if you want to add a touch of attitude to your daily driver, the FF-K016 is a smart choice.
The leveled profile gives you improved handling on and off the pavement. So go ahead and give your Tundra the lift it deserves!
Pros:
- Lifts front end 3″ and rear 2″ for a leveled, aggressive stance
- Premium aluminum spacers are durable and corrosion-resistant
- Absorbs shocks and bumps for a smooth ride
- Easy to install with 4 sturdy U-bolts
- Allows fitting larger tires without rubbing
Cons:
- Not ideal for hardcore off-roading
How Does a Leveling Kit Work?
Leveling kits work by replacing or adding extensions to the front struts.
The factory front struts on most trucks are shorter than the rear shocks. This causes the front end to sit lower. A leveling kit makes the front struts the same length or slightly longer than the rear. This effectively lifts up the nose of the truck to make it level.
There are two main options for leveling kit strut spacers:
- Strut extensions – These threaded rods screw into the top of the factory struts to add up to 3 inches of length.
- Strut spacers – These blocks install between the strut mount and factory strut to increase the strut height.
Both options deliver similar results by making the front struts longer to lift the truck. Installing larger tires in conjunction with a leveling kit adds even more lift.
Why Do You Need a Leveling Kit for a Tundra?
There are a few key reasons installing a leveling kit is recommended for the Toyota Tundra:
- Improves suspension geometry – Raising the front realigns the suspension angles closer to optimal. This improves ride quality and handling.
- Reduces headlight glare – Leveling out the truck prevents the headlights from angling upward and glaring for oncoming traffic.
- Easier access to the bed – A level stance makes reaching over the bed walls easier for loading and unloading.
- Better weight distribution – With the truck level, weight transfers more evenly between the front and rear axles.
- Enhances appearance – Many owners prefer the look of a level, head-on stance.
Installing a leveling kit is an easy upgrade every Tundra owner should consider to optimize their truck.
Pros and Cons of Installing a Leveling Kit
Leveling kits come with several advantages and disadvantages to weigh:
Pros of Installing a Leveling Kit:
- Levels out stance
- Improves suspension geometry
- Reduces headlight glare
- Easier access over bed walls
- Better weight distribution
- Enhances appearance
- Inexpensive upgrade
Cons of Installing a Leveling Kit:
- Small decrease in ride comfort
- Slight reduction in steering wheel centering
- Need for front-end alignment
- Possible need to adjust headlights
- Increase in Tundra modification costs after the addition of other accessories. This may create the need to upgrade other parts sooner (tie rods, brakes, etc.)
Overall, the pros heavily outweigh the cons for most Tundra owners. Leveling kits are an inexpensive way to optimize suspension geometry and looks.
Types of Leveling Kits for Tundras
There are three main leveling kit options for the Toyota Tundra:
2-Inch Front Leveling Kit
- Simple spacer blocks
- Budget-friendly cost
- 1.5 to 2 inches of front lift
- Allows for slightly larger tires
2.5-Inch Front Leveling Kit
- Threaded strut extensions
- Moderate cost
- 2 to 2.5 inches of front lift
- Accommodates larger tire upgrades
3-Inch Front Leveling Kit
- Extended strut replacements
- Highest cost option
- 2.5 to 3 inches of front lift
- Allows for maximum tire size upgrade
Choose a leveling kit based on your budget and desired tire size. 2-inch kits are the most affordable option. For maximum lift and tire clearance, 3-inch leveling kits are ideal.
How to Install a Leveling Kit on a Tundra
Installing a Toyota Tundra leveling kit is a straightforward DIY project. Here are the steps:
Pick the Right Leveling Kit
Choose a kit designed specifically for your Tundra year and cab configuration. Buy a complete kit with all the required hardware.
Assemble the Necessary Tools
Gather basic hand tools like wrenches, sockets, jack stands, and a floor jack. A spring compressor makes removing the struts easier.
Park on a Flat Surface
Park on a level surface like a garage floor. Set the parking brake and chock the rear tires.
Lift the Front of the Truck
Place jack stands under the frame to lift the front wheels off the ground. Remove the wheels for easier access.
Remove the Factory Strut
Support the lower control arm with a jack. Disconnect the strut from the steering knuckle. Unbolt the three strut mount nuts and remove the factory strut.
Install the New Strut Spacers
Assemble and install the new strut extensions or spacers per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Lower the Truck and Torque Hardware
Raise the front, reinstall the wheels, then lower the truck. Tighten all bolts to spec and adjust headlights.
And that’s it! Properly installing a Tundra leveling kit takes a few hours and makes a huge difference.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Toyota Tundra leveling kits:
Do I need an alignment after installing a leveling kit?
Yes, you should get a front-end alignment done after installing a Tundra leveling kit to correct toe alignment and ensure proper tire wear.
Will a leveling kit void my factory warranty?
No, a basic leveling kit won’t void the factory warranty, as long as it’s installed properly. However, any damaged caused directly by the leveling kit would not be covered.
How much lift does a leveling kit provide?
Leveling kits typically provide 1 to 3 inches of lift by using spacers or extended struts. This small amount of lift levels the truck without drastically altering the suspension.
Can I stack a leveling kit with a Tundra lift kit?
Yes, you can install a leveling kit on top of a suspension lift kit for maximum front-end lift. A 2-inch leveling kit pairs nicely with a 2, 4, or 6-inch lift kit.
How much does a Tundra leveling kit cost?
Leveling kits range from $100 on the low end for basic strut spacers to $300 on the high end for extended drop-in replacement struts. Expect to pay $150 to $250 for a complete kit.
What size tires can I fit with a leveling kit installed?
A 2-inch leveling kit supports 265/70R17 tires, while a 2.5 to 3-inch kit accommodates 275/70R18 or even 285/70R17 tires on certain Tundra models.
Conclusion
Installing a Toyota Tundra leveling kit is a very straightforward upgrade. Kits starting at 2 inches lift the front end just enough to level out the truck’s stance.
Leveling your Tundra provides huge benefits like realigning the suspension geometry, reducing headlight glare, and easing access over the bed walls. Plus, it gives your truck a nice head-on appearance.
For Tundra owners wanting to enhance their truck’s look and performance, adding a leveling kit is an essential modification. This affordable upgrade should be one of the first additions to any new Tundra.
When he’s not working his magic under the hood, Ethan Wilson is usually sharing his love for Toyota cars through his writing. Ethan’s got a special talent for breaking down complex car topics into easy-to-understand articles, making him a go-to source for Toyota enthusiasts everywhere.
