4 Easy Ways to Raise Your Car’s Ground Clearance for Comfort and Safety

Driving a low-riding car can be tricky, especially for taller folks who struggle to get in and out comfortably. Raising your car’s ground clearance can help, but it’s not a simple or budget-friendly task. Read on to discover practical ways to lift your vehicle’s height!

Why Increase Your Car’s Ground Clearance?

Low cars can pose challenges. For some, getting in and out is tough, especially with back issues. Plus, a car that’s too close to the ground risks scraping against road debris or steep driveways, leading to costly repairs. Nobody enjoys the sound of their car’s undercarriage grinding against the pavement!

A vehicle with better ground clearance requires fewer fixes and handles uneven roads more effectively. If your car feels too low, here are some methods to elevate it.

Four Simple Ways to Lift Your Vehicle’s Height

Here are four effective techniques to increase the distance between your car’s undercarriage and the road. Each method can add 1–4 inches of height, but professional assistance is recommended to ensure safety and precision.

Upgrade to Larger Tires

One of the easiest ways to boost your car’s height is by switching to larger or thicker tires. Over time, tires wear down, reducing their height and your car’s ground clearance. Replacing them with wider or taller tires can make a noticeable difference.

When selecting new tires, choose ones with a larger diameter than your current set. This can add up to an inch or two of clearance. Always replace all four tires to maintain balance and avoid issues with traction or steering. Uneven tires can strain your car’s suspension or even damage its steering system.

Adjust Your Car’s Suspension

Modifying your car’s suspension is a technical but effective way to raise its height. The suspension system, which includes springs and shock absorbers, smooths out bumps for a comfortable ride. By installing taller springs, you can increase the gap between your car and the ground by about 1–3 inches.

This method requires expertise, so it’s best to consult a professional mechanic to avoid damaging your vehicle’s suspension system.

Combine Suspension Upgrades with Larger Tires

For maximum clearance, combine a suspension upgrade with larger tires. Adjusting the suspension springs can add a couple of inches, and pairing this with wider tires can give you an additional boost. Together, these changes can raise your car by up to 4 inches, offering better protection against road hazards.

Opt for a Body Lift

A body lift is a specialized technique where the car’s frame is raised higher than its original position. This is done by placing spacers between the vehicle’s body and chassis, leaving the suspension untouched. A body lift can add 4–6 inches of height, making it ideal for those seeking a significant boost.

Keep in mind that a higher lift may create a larger gap between the wheel rim and tire, so pairing this with larger tires can help maintain a balanced look and performance.

Final Thoughts

These four methods—upgrading tires, adjusting suspension, combining both, or opting for a body lift—can effectively raise your car’s ground clearance. For best results, work with a skilled mechanic, especially for complex tasks like suspension modifications or body lifts. Each approach can add 1–6 inches of height, making your car easier to enter, exit, and drive on rough roads.