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If you plan to lift the front of your Dodge Journey for extra clearance or a more balanced stance, choosing the right leveling kit matters. The right kit keeps handling predictable, preserves ride quality, and provides the needed clearance for larger tires without compromising suspension geometry. This guide covers seven shortlisted kits that represent the top options available for this vehicle, and explains the factors we evaluated.Below you will find short summaries and installation considerations to help pick the kit that fits your priorities and driving style.
Looking for other parts? See all Dodge Journey parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
1. DEALPAREX 1.6 inch (40mm) Front Strut Spacers Leveling Lift Kit for Dodge Caliber/Journey/Avenger
| Compatible models | Dodge Caliber 2006-2012; Journey 2007-2020; Avenger 2007-2014 |
|---|---|
| Lift height | 1.6 inch (40 mm) |
| Included components | 2x strut spacers, fitting kit |
| Material Type | Polyurethane (PU) |
This DEALPAREX leveling kit uses two polyurethane strut spacers and a fitting kit to raise the front of compatible Dodge models by 1.6 inches (40 mm). It installs on the front strut towers to increase ground clearance, improve approach angles, and allow slightly larger wheel and tire choices without changing springs or struts. The spacers are molded from high density French polyurethane for resistance to compression and road wear, and the kit is positioned as an easy, bolt-on modification for hobbyists or DIY mechanics. Practical benefits include a straightforward install with basic tools, modest lift to preserve ride quality, and improved capability on rough roads or light off-road surfaces. Limitations are that this is a small, front-only lift so it will not alter rear ride height or suspension geometry, it does not replace worn struts or springs, and a professional alignment after installation is recommended to avoid uneven tire wear.
Best for: Balanced buyers who want a modest, factory-friendly front lift to improve clearance and stance without major suspension changes and who prefer a DIY installation approach.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a full suspension overhaul, significant lift, full off-road capability, or who need a rear lift or updated dampers should consider a complete lift kit instead.
- Simple bolt-on installation designed for DIY fitment on specified Dodge models
- Uses high-density polyurethane for durability and resistance to compression
- Provides 1.6 inch (40 mm) front lift to increase clearance and allow larger wheels or tires
- Front-only spacer kit does not address rear ride height or full suspension geometry changes
- Not a replacement for worn struts or springs and will not restore damping performance
Verdict: An easy, durable front-only 1.6 inch spacer kit that raises clearance and stance on compatible Dodge models with a straightforward DIY installation.
2. Tema4x4 30mm Complete Leveling Lift Kit for Dodge Caliber and Journey
| Included Components | strut spacers |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front, Rear |
| Material Type | Polyurethan |
This Tema4x4 leveling kit uses polyurethane strut spacers to add 30 mm of ride height at both front and rear, giving the Journey extra ground clearance and a slightly more aggressive stance. Installation is straightforward for a competent home mechanic since the kit is limited to spacers rather than full spring or strut replacements, so it is typically used to clear larger wheels, improve approach clearance on light off-road roads, and reduce bumper scrubbing on higher curbs. The polyurethan material promises durability and resistance to road wear compared with cheap plastics, and the kit is compact so it preserves factory suspension geometry and ride characteristics better than full lift systems. Limitations include the modest lift amount, which is not intended for heavy off-road use or substantially larger tires, and the kit does not address shocks or alignment so a professional alignment after installation is recommended. For performance-minded owners seeking a quality, low-impact way to raise a Dodge Journey, this delivers a simple, durable option.
Best for: Performance-oriented owners who want a high-quality, low-impact way to raise a Dodge Journey for improved clearance and fitment without replacing major suspension components.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who plan significant off-road use, large tire upgrades, or who need a suspension overhaul should choose a full lift kit with matched shocks and alignment components instead.
- Adds 30 mm of lift to front and rear for improved ground clearance and stance
- Polyurethane construction for better durability compared with lower-grade plastics
- Spacer-style design keeps factory suspension components in place for easier installation
- Helps accommodate slightly larger wheels and reduces curb contact
- Only provides a modest 30 mm lift, not suitable for serious off-road tire fitment
- Does not include shocks or hardware for alignment adjustments
Verdict: A durable, spacer-style 30 mm leveling kit that raises a Dodge Journey with minimal changes to factory suspension for improved clearance and style.
3. DEALPAREX 1.2-inch Front Strut Spacers Leveling Lift Kit for Dodge Caliber / Journey / Avenger
| Compatible models | Dodge Caliber 2006-2012, Journey 2007-2020, Avenger 2007-2014 |
|---|---|
| Included components | 2x strut spacers, fitting kit |
| Material type | Polyurethane (PU) |
| Auto part position | Front |
This DEALPAREX leveling kit uses two polyurethane front strut spacers and a fitting kit to raise the front of compatible Dodge models by roughly 1.2 inches. Installation is typical for strut spacers: remove the strut top, fit the spacer, and reassemble using the supplied hardware, so a competent DIYer or small shop can complete the job quickly. The polyurethane construction promises longer service life than cheap plastics and resists road impact and moisture better than low-density foams. Benefits include modestly improved ground clearance for larger wheels or mild off-road driving and a subtler aesthetic lift without changing spring rates or dampers. Limitations are that it only lifts the front, does not change suspension geometry beyond height, and may require a wheel alignment after fitting; it is not a replacement for full suspension upgrades if you need heavy-duty off-road performance or handling improvements.
Best for: Practical owners who want an affordable, straightforward way to raise the front ride height for occasional off-road use or to fit larger wheels while keeping installation and maintenance simple.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a full suspension overhaul, significant off-road capability, or precise handling improvements should choose a complete spring and shock upgrade instead.
- Simple design with just two front strut spacers and a fitting kit for straightforward installation
- High-density polyurethane material for improved durability and resistance to road conditions
- Adds about 1.2 inches of front lift to increase ground clearance for larger wheels and mild off-road use
- Keeps factory springs and dampers intact so ride characteristics remain largely unchanged
- Front-only lift can create a slight nose-up stance and may require alignment after installation
- Not a full suspension upgrade so it will not improve heavy-duty off-road capability or handling
Verdict: A simple, durable and budget-friendly front strut spacer kit to gain about 1.2 inches of clearance for Dodge Journey owners who want a practical lift without replacing springs or shocks.
4. DEALPAREX Rear Strut Spacer Leveling Lift Kit 20mm for Dodge Caliber / Journey / Avenger
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Material Type | Polyurethane (PU) |
| Included Components | fitting kit |
This rear strut spacer kit raises the rear of compatible Dodge models roughly 20mm (0.8 inch) using high-density polyurethane spacers and a basic fitting kit. It is installed between the upper strut mount and spring to provide modest additional ground clearance and a leveled stance without replacing springs or shocks. The polyurethane construction promises durability and resistance to road conditions while keeping weight low and installation straightforward for a home mechanic with basic tools. Because the kit only contains two spacers and hardware for the rear, it is a targeted, budget-friendly solution focused on appearance and minor clearance gains rather than full suspension performance upgrades. Expect an easy-to-follow, time-efficient install but no change to damping characteristics or load capacity, so heavy towing or frequent off-road abuse will still require more substantial suspension components.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners seeking an inexpensive, easy-to-install way to level the rear of a Dodge Journey and improve clearance or aesthetics without investing in full suspension replacement.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need significant lift, increased payload or towing capability, or who want improved handling from matched spring and shock upgrades should look at full suspension kits instead.
- Simple installation using included fitting kit for a quick rear lift
- High-density polyurethane spacers offer corrosion resistance and long service life
- Designed specifically for specified Dodge Caliber, Journey, and Avenger models
- Lightweight solution that improves clearance and allows slightly larger wheel/tire fitment
- Only provides a modest 0.8 inch rear lift and does not alter damping or load capacity
- Rear-only kit may produce uneven ride feel unless front adjustments are made separately
Verdict: A low-cost, rear-only polyurethane strut spacer kit that delivers a modest 0.8 inch lift to level compatible Dodge models with minimal installation effort.
5. DEALPAREX 1.6-inch Rear Strut Spacers Lift Kit for Dodge Journey
| Compatible vehicle | Dodge Journey |
|---|---|
| Lift height | 1.6 inch (40 mm) |
| Position | Rear |
| Material | Polyurethane (PU) |
This DEALPAREX lift kit provides two 1.6-inch rear strut spacers plus a fitting kit to increase ground clearance on the Dodge Journey. The spacers are molded from high-density polyurethane, which the manufacturer says resists wear and keeps the spacer shape under load. Installation is intended to be a simple bolt-on job using the included fitting hardware and is typically done by replacing or lifting the rear strut tops to accept the spacer. The practical benefits are modest but clear: a small, factory-friendly lift that helps fit slightly larger tires, reduces scraping on low obstacles, and gives a more commanding stance without replacing springs or shocks. Limitations are that this is a rear-only spacer set so it does not change front ride height or suspension geometry, and a 1.6-inch gain is modest compared with full suspension lifts. Also, polyurethane spacers can transfer a bit more road harshness than progressive spring changes, and proper installation requires basic suspension tools and safe lifting procedures.
Best for: Risk-averse shoppers who want a conservative, reversible way to add a little clearance to their Dodge Journey without replacing major suspension components.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking large lifts, comprehensive suspension performance upgrades, or a perfectly smooth ride after lifting should consider full suspension kits instead.
- Made from high-density polyurethane for durability and shape retention
- Includes fitting kit to simplify installation
- Raises rear ground clearance to help fit slightly larger tires and reduce scraping
- Compact bolt-on solution that avoids replacing springs or shocks
- Rear-only spacers do not address front ride height or overall suspension balance
- Provides only a modest 1.6-inch lift compared with full suspension kits
- May increase transmitted road harshness compared with spring-based lift solutions
Verdict: A simple, rear-only 1.6-inch polyurethane spacer kit for Dodge Journey owners who want a small, reversible increase in ground clearance without changing major suspension parts.
6. DEALPARTS 1.6 inch Leveling Lift Kit for Dodge Caliber (2006–2011) and Journey (2008–2015)
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Polyurethane (PU) |
| Auto Part Position | Front, Rear |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 1.6 Inches |
This DEALPARTS leveling lift kit uses polyurethane front and rear strut spacers to raise a Dodge Journey or Caliber by up to 1.6 inches. It installs as a spacer on the coil/strut assembly and is intended to increase ground clearance and provide room for larger rims and tires without changing springs or shocks. The kit includes two front and two rear spacers plus a fitting kit, and the high-density polyurethane construction is marketed for durability and resistance to road wear. In real-world use the spacer approach is simple and fast to fit compared with full spring replacements and keeps the factory ride characteristics largely intact. Limitations are that the modest 1.6-inch lift is mainly for clearance and style rather than heavy off-road articulation, and using spacers does not change suspension travel or load capacity the way a full lift or upgraded springs would. Buyers should plan for proper alignment after installation and inspect fitment hardware periodically.
Best for: Reliability-focused owners who want a straightforward, low-maintenance way to raise a Dodge Journey or Caliber a small amount for better clearance and to fit larger wheels while keeping the factory suspension behavior.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a substantial off-road lift, increased suspension travel, or higher load capacity should consider full spring and shock upgrades instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Dodge Caliber (2006–2011) and Journey (2008–2015)
- Polyurethane construction designed for long service life and resistance to wear
- Includes front and rear spacers plus a fitting kit for easier installation
- Raises vehicle clearance by up to 1.6 inches to allow larger wheels and improved approach clearance
- Lift is modest and intended for clearance and appearance rather than serious off-road capability
- Spacer solution does not increase suspension travel or improve load carrying compared with spring or shock upgrades
Verdict: A simple, vehicle-specific polyurethane spacer kit to reliably add 1.6 inches of clearance to Dodge Journey and Caliber models with minimal modification.
7. DEALPAREX Rear Strut Spacers 1.2-inch Lift Kit for Dodge Caliber/Journey/Avenger
| Maximum Lifting Height | 1.2 Inches |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Polyurethane (PU) |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Included Components | fitting kit |
This rear strut spacer kit provides a simple way to gain about 1.2 inches of lift on compatible Dodge models by replacing the top of the rear strut with two polyurethane spacers and using the included fitting kit. Installation is straightforward for someone comfortable with basic suspension work and a jack because the kit is vehicle-specific and ships with the hardware needed to mount the spacers. The polyurethane material is described as high-density for durability and resistance to road conditions, so the spacers should be a long-lived option for occasional off-road or rough-road driving and for fitting slightly larger wheels and tires. Limitations include the modest lift height, which is intended for light clearance gains rather than heavy-duty off-road use, and its rear-only application so a level or full-lift setup requires additional parts. Buyers should also expect professional alignment after installation to maintain handling and tire wear.
Best for: Convenience-driven owners who want a quick, low-effort way to add a small amount of rear lift and improve clearance for slightly larger tires without a full suspension overhaul.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking substantial lift, heavy off-road capability, or a complete suspension upgrade should consider multi-component or heavier-duty kits instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit simplifies installation on the listed Dodge models
- Compact rear-only design lets you gain clearance without replacing full suspension
- High-density polyurethane construction aimed at corrosion resistance and durability
- Includes fitting kit and hardware for a do-it-yourself install
- Provides only a modest 1.2 inch lift, not suitable for serious off-road modification
- Rear-only lift may require complementary front components for a level stance
Verdict: An easy, vehicle-specific rear strut spacer kit that adds about 1.2 inches of durable polyurethane lift to improve clearance with minimal installation effort.
Choosing the Right Dodge Journey Leveling Kit: Key Factors to Consider
Lift Height and Front-End Geometry
The amount of lift the kit provides directly affects steering, alignment, and suspension angles. Small lifts preserve stock geometry better, while larger lifts can change caster and camber enough to require alignment adjustments.
Pick a height that achieves the clearance you need without introducing excessive suspension wear or unpredictable handling. Verify how the lift interacts with control arms, sway bar links, and steering components to avoid binding or premature wear.
Ride Quality and Damping Effects
Leveling kits can change how the vehicle responds to bumps and corners by altering spring and shock engagement. Spacer-style kits usually preserve the original springs and shocks, so ride comfort stays close to stock. In contrast, some kits modify spring preload, which can stiffen the front end noticeably.
Think about how you use the vehicle daily. If most driving is on paved roads, maintaining a comfortable, composed ride is often more important than maximizing lift.
Installation Complexity and Required Tools
Installation ranges from simple bolt-on spacers to kits that require spring compressors or removal of suspension components. Time, tools, and mechanical skill affect both cost and the likelihood of a correct installation.
If you do the work yourself, choose a kit with clear instructions and hardware included. If you plan professional installation, confirm approximate labor steps and whether alignment is needed after installation.
Material Quality and Corrosion Resistance
Materials and finish affect long-term durability, especially in climates with road salt or frequent moisture. Hardened steel and aircraft-grade aluminum are common; protective coatings and sealed fasteners reduce corrosion risk.
Assess whether replacement or maintenance of components will be easy in your region. Higher-quality materials typically translate to longer service life and more predictable performance over time.
Compatibility With Tires and Wheels
A leveling kit changes clearance and wheel well geometry, which impacts the range of tire and wheel sizes you can fit without rubbing. Even modest lifts can allow slightly taller tires, but wheel offset and backspacing matter too.
Confirm the expected tire sizes the kit supports and whether additional adjustments, such as trimming or fender work, are likely. Compatibility notes should align with the Dodge Journey's stock suspension and braking layout.
Warranty, Support, and Replacement Parts
A clear warranty and access to replacement hardware can save time and cost if a component fails. Some manufacturers offer limited warranties on structural parts and separate coverage for finish or hardware.
Consider how easy it will be to get replacement components and whether the manufacturer provides installation guidance or technical support. Warranties and service networks are especially valuable for owners who keep their vehicles for many years.
How We Chose the Best Dodge Journey Leveling Kit
We selected products based on performance in real-world driving, installation demands specific to the Dodge Journey, and long-term durability under typical road conditions. Key evaluation criteria included front-end lift height and how that affects suspension geometry, material quality and corrosion resistance, impact on ride comfort and handling, compatibility with stock and slightly larger tire sizes, and clarity of installation instructions and hardware completeness. We also considered warranty coverage and manufacturer support where available. Exclusions included kits that required major suspension redesigns, ones built only for commercial or off-road-only use, and any options lacking clear vehicle-specific fitment information. The result is a focused list of practical leveling kits intended for owners who want a reliable stance upgrade without extensive chassis modification.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will a leveling kit affect my Dodge Journey's alignment?
Yes, installing a leveling kit often changes front-end geometry and can affect alignment. After installation, an alignment check is usually recommended to correct camber, caster, and toe so steering and tire wear remain optimal.
Can I install a leveling kit myself?
You can install many spacer-style kits with moderate mechanical skill and common tools. Some kits require spring compressors or disassembly of suspension components, which increases complexity. If you are unsure, professional installation ensures proper torque and alignment.
How much lift should I choose for improved clearance?
Choose the smallest lift that provides the clearance you need. Small lifts preserve ride and handling better, while larger lifts may require additional suspension or steering modifications. Consider tire size goals and practical driving needs when deciding.
Will a leveling kit change the ride quality?
It can. Spacer-style kits tend to maintain stock ride characteristics, while kits that alter spring preload or add stiffer components may increase front-end firmness. Ride changes depend on kit design and existing suspension condition.
Do I need different shocks with a leveling kit?
Not always. Many owners keep stock shocks after modest lifts, but larger lifts or kits that change spring geometry can benefit from shocks tuned for the new ride height. Inspect shock travel and mounting angles after installation to determine if replacement is advisable.
Will a leveling kit affect towing or payload capacity?
A modest leveling kit usually has minimal impact on towing and payload, but significant changes to suspension geometry or spring rates can alter load handling. If you frequently tow or carry heavy loads, consider how the kit changes suspension behavior and consult manufacturer guidance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Dodge Journey leveling kit means balancing desired clearance and stance with ride comfort, steering behavior, and installation practicality. Prioritize the lift height that meets your tire goals while minimizing negative effects on alignment and handling.Also weigh material quality, warranty support, and whether you will install the kit yourself. Focusing on these tradeoffs helps ensure the kit you pick matches how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
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