Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
Upgrading the suspension on your Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7L CRD can make a dramatic difference in capability and appearance. The right lift kit increases ground clearance, allows larger tires, and improves approach and departure angles for trail work without compromising everyday drivability. This guide focuses on the most practical lift options for the 2.7L CRD configuration and explains how each kit type affects handling, load capacity, and installation complexity. Below are our top shortlisted lift kits for this vehicle configuration, selected for compatibility and real-world suitability. We evaluate them on ride quality and fitment to help you pick a kit that matches your off-road goals and daily driving needs.
Looking for other parts? See all Jeep Grand Cherokee parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Lift Kit A balanced, all-around lift kit suited for most DIY projects | Rough Country 2.5" Lift Kit for 2011-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 |  |
| Best Budget Lift Kit An affordable lift solution that preserves basic functionality and safety | maXpeedingrods 2" Front Leveling Kit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 |  |
| Best Premium Lift Kit Higher-end components and refinement for long-term performance and comfort | Rough Country 2.5in Lift Kit with N3 Struts for 2016–2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 |  |
| Best Complete Lift Kit Includes all necessary components for a full, straightforward installation | Rough Country 2.5in Lift Kit with N3 Struts for 2011–2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 |  |
| Best 2-Inch Lift Kit A common small lift that balances clearance and factory-like handling | Rough Country 2" Leveling Kit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 |  |
| Best Heavy-Duty Lift Kit Built for tougher use with reinforced parts and long-lasting durability | Rough Country 4" X-Series 4-inch Lift Kit for 1999–2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ (V6) |  |
Rough Country 2.5" Lift Kit for 2011-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2
Best Overall Lift Kit
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2.5 Inches |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Front strut spacers, rear coil spacers, shock spacers |
| Material Type | Metal |
| Compatible Years | 2011-2022 |
This Rough Country kit raises the 2011–2022 Grand Cherokee WK2 about 2.5 inches using front strut spacers and rear coil/shock spacers so you can run larger tires and gain extra ground clearance without replacing the factory struts or coils. Typical use is street and light off-road driving where you want a more aggressive stance and clearance for up to 33-inch tires. Installation is largely bolt-on but the front strut work is involved and benefits from spring compressors, an experienced helper, or a shop; plan on an alignment after fitting. Most owners report the factory ride quality is preserved and the kit is a cost-effective way to level and lift the vehicle, but some buyers note variability in spacer materials and occasional fitment issues requiring wheel offset adjustments or minor trimming. The kit is backed by Rough Country’s limited lifetime replacement warranty and includes the necessary front and rear spacers and shock spacers for a straightforward upgrade when matched to the specified model and suspension type.
Best for: Buyers who want a dependable, budget-friendly way to raise and level a WK2 Grand Cherokee while keeping the factory suspension and maintaining daily drivability.
Less Ideal for: Avoid this kit if you need a heavy-duty off-road suspension with long-travel shocks or if you want a simple bolt-on that requires no mechanical experience at all.
- Provides a true 2.5-inch lift while retaining factory struts and coils
- Allows fitment of up to 33-inch tires for improved off-road clearance and appearance
- Preserves near-factory ride quality for everyday driving
- Includes both front and rear spacers plus shock spacers so no full suspension replacement is required
- Front installation is labor intensive and requires spring compressors or professional installation
- Some units have reported differing spacer materials and inconsistent fitment between batches
Verdict: The best overall lift kit combines reliable components, straightforward installation, and good ride quality to suit most DIY mechanics looking for a dependable upgrade.
maXpeedingrods 2" Front Leveling Kit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2
Best Budget Lift Kit
| Fitment | Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2011-2022 |
|---|---|
| Position | Front |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2 Inches |
| Included Components | Instruction, strut spacers |
This maXpeedingrods front leveling kit uses two strut spacers and high-grade hardware to add roughly two inches of front lift on Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 models from 2011 to 2022 (not compatible with air-ride models). It is designed for owners who want a budget-friendly, DIY height boost to improve clearance and achieve a more level stance while retaining the factory ride characteristics. Installation requires disassembly of the knuckles and axles and may need cutting or shaving the stock strut studs to fit the spacers, so expect a multi-hour job and use of grinder or cutoff tools. The kit ships with hardware but no detailed instructions, so mechanical experience or online install guides help. Reported results show a noticeable visual lift and usable off-road clearance, though some buyers measured less than the advertised lift because suspension geometry reduces net rise. For a low-cost, straightforward front lift solution this kit delivers good value, but it is best for experienced DIYers willing to prepare tools and perform modifications during install.
Best for: Buyers on a tight budget who want a safe, functional front lift for a Grand Cherokee WK2 and are comfortable doing a multi-hour DIY install with some modifications and basic fabrication tools.
Less Ideal for: Those who prefer a full suspension lift, want guaranteed exact ride height without modifications, or who lack mechanical experience and tools should consider a different solution or professional installation.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 2011-2022 (non air-ride)
- Adds about 2 inches of front clearance for larger tires and improved off-road approach
- Includes high-grade mounting hardware so no extra fasteners are required
- Relatively low-cost way to improve stance while keeping factory shock and spring components
- No detailed installation instructions included, relying on installer experience or online guides
- May require cutting or grinding strut studs and removal of knuckles/axles during install
- Actual lift can be less than advertised due to suspension geometry
Verdict: The best budget lift kit delivers a safe, cost-conscious height boost with acceptable materials and easy installation for DIYers who prioritize price over premium features.
Rough Country 2.5in Lift Kit with N3 Struts for 2016–2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2
Best Premium Lift Kit
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2.5 Inches |
|---|---|
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Material Type | High Carbon Steel |
| Included Components | Suspension Lift Kit |
This Rough Country kit replaces the factory springs and installs N3 struts to lift and level the Grand Cherokee by 2.5 inches while aiming to retain a comfortable, near-factory ride. It is intended for owners who want a noticeable height increase and the ability to fit up to 33-inch tires without major drivetrain modifications. The kit includes full replacement springs and matched struts so the front and rear ride heights are balanced, and the springs are tuned to provide a smoother ride than a simple spacer lift. Installation is supported for at-home mechanics but the manufacturer recommends a certified technician for safety checks and alignment after install. Practical benefits include improved ground clearance and a more aggressive stance, plus a lifetime replacement guarantee for covered faults. Limitations are vehicle-specific fitment—some Grand Cherokee variants with special shocks may not be compatible—and you will likely need an alignment and periodic inspections after installation to maintain handling and driveline health.
Best for: Experienced DIY mechanics or owners prioritizing a refined, long-term lift solution who are willing to invest in higher-quality struts and springs for improved ride tuning and durability.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking a budget or temporary spacer-style lift, or those who own Grand Cherokee variants with nonstandard shock configurations and cannot confirm compatibility.
- Vehicle-specific kit tuned for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 for balanced front-to-rear ride height.
- Includes matched N3 struts and full replacement coil springs for better ride quality than simple spacers.
- Allows fitment of up to 33-inch tires for increased ground clearance and off-road capability.
- Backed by a limited lifetime replacement guarantee for covered defects.
- Not compatible with certain factory special shocks such as nivomat-equipped models without verification.
- Installation requires suspension knowledge and post-install alignment and inspections to ensure safety and proper drivability.
Verdict: The best premium lift kit offers superior materials, improved ride tuning, and durable hardware for DIY mechanics willing to pay more for long-term performance and refinement.
Rough Country 2.5in Lift Kit with N3 Struts for 2011–2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2
Best Complete Lift Kit
| Included Components | Lift Kit |
|---|---|
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2.5 Inches |
| Item Type Name | 2.5in Coil Spring Suspension Lift Kit |
This Rough Country 2.5-inch lift kit is a full suspension replacement package designed to raise and level 2011–2015 Grand Cherokee WK2 vehicles. The kit includes replacement coil springs up front, N3 lift struts and rear shocks to deliver the advertised ride height and allow up to 33-inch tires without major body trimming. In typical use it replaces factory springs and dampers and is intended for at-home or shop installation by someone comfortable with suspension work. Notable features are vehicle-specific fitment, components sized for a moderate lift, and Rough Country’s limited lifetime replacement guarantee. In practice the kit gives a more aggressive stance and, when installed and aligned correctly, can preserve a comfortable, near-factory ride. However some installers report rear shock fitment issues and extra work to reuse or replace top mounts and link hardware, so expect a professional install and possible additional aftermarket links or top hats to fully finish the job. The manufacturer recommends post-install inspections and alignment to maintain safe steering and driveline behavior.
Best for: Buyers who want a single, vehicle-specific lift package that replaces springs and dampers so they can achieve a leveled 2.5-inch lift without hunting for separate shocks.
Less Ideal for: Owners who expect a bolt-in, no-modification swap with factory hardware or those unwilling to arrange professional installation and post-install alignment checks.
- Vehicle-specific kit that replaces springs and struts for a matched lift solution
- Rated to lift and level the vehicle 2.5 inches and accept up to 33-inch tires
- Includes N3 struts and rear shocks so you do not need to source basic dampers separately
- Backed by Rough Country limited lifetime replacement guarantee
- Several reviewers report rear shock fitment problems and the need to reuse or buy additional top hats or link hardware
- May require professional installation and a follow-up alignment to avoid steering or driveline issues
Verdict: The best complete lift kit includes shocks, control arms, hardware, and alignment-friendly parts so DIY mechanics can install a full lift without sourcing extra components.
Rough Country 2" Leveling Kit for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2
Best 2-Inch Lift Kit
| Material | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Included Components | (2) Upper Strut Spacers, Hardware |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2 Inches |
| Construction | Drilling Required: No |
This Rough Country 2" leveling kit is a simple suspension spacer system that lifts the front of a Grand Cherokee WK2 about two inches to level the truck and allow slightly larger tires. The kit includes two alloy-steel upper strut spacers and the hardware required; installation keeps the factory struts and is designed to retain near-stock ride quality while adding modest ground clearance. Typical use cases are fitting up to roughly 31.5" tires, correcting forward rake, or giving the vehicle a more aggressive stance without a full lift. Buyers should expect a hands-on install that can be completed with common garage tools but may require disassembling front components and assistance to realign large bolts. Notable benefits are low cost, factory-style ride preservation, and no drilling required. Limitations include fitment exclusion for models with air-ride suspension and occasional reports of uneven weld finish or missing/damaged fasteners in some packs, so inspect hardware before starting the job.
Best for: Buyers who want a modest, factory-friendly lift to level their Grand Cherokee and fit slightly larger tires while preserving near-stock handling and ride comfort.
Less Ideal for: Anyone seeking large lifts, heavy off-road modification, or a bolt-on solution for air-ride equipped vehicles should look for a different kit.
- Vehicle-specific design for Grand Cherokee WK2 ensures a direct fit for compatible models
- Keeps factory struts and maintains near-stock ride quality
- No drilling required and includes necessary hardware for the front spacer install
- Enables modest tire size increase and a leveled stance without a full suspension replacement
- Does not fit Grand Cherokee models equipped with air-ride suspension
- Installation can require significant disassembly and a helper to reinstall certain bolts
Verdict: The best 2-inch lift kit provides a modest, widely used lift that preserves near-stock handling while giving extra clearance for slightly larger tires and simple installations.
Rough Country 4" X-Series 4-inch Lift Kit for 1999–2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ (V6)
Best Heavy-Duty Lift Kit
| Maximum Lifting Height | 4 Inches |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Lifted coil springs, N3 shocks, adjustable lower control arms, track bar bracket, shock relocation kit |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Rubber, Zinc |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3 Year Shocks & Struts, Limited Lifetime |
This Rough Country X-Series 4-inch lift kit raises the Grand Cherokee WJ while supplying a complete set of suspension components intended to retain usable highway manners. The kit bundles lifted coil springs, N3 series shocks, adjustable lower control arms with rubber bushings, an updated track-bar bracket, sway-bar quick disconnects and a shock relocation kit so you get a full system rather than piecemeal parts. In practice it is aimed at owners who want increased ground clearance and the ability to run wider tires while keeping steering geometry close to factory angles. Installation is straightforward for a competent mechanic and the included hardware and transmission crossmember spacers cover common fitment needs. Trade-offs are durability and long-term refinement: several users report premature shock or spring sag and corrosion over time, so owners planning heavy-duty off-road use or heavy loads may want heavier-duty shocks or upgraded springs. Note this kit is vehicle-specific for the WJ V6 and excludes certain driveline variants, so verify fitment before buying.
Best for: Mechanically minded WJ owners who want a full, vehicle-specific 4-inch lift that increases ground clearance and allows wider tires while keeping control-arm geometry adjustable for day-to-day driving and trail use.
Less Ideal for: Owners seeking a long-term heavy-load or extreme off-road solution without further upgrades should consider kits with beefier shocks, heavier springs, or long-arm geometry instead.
- Complete vehicle-specific kit with springs, shocks, adjustable lower control arms and track-bar bracket
- Includes N3 shocks and shock relocation hardware for improved clearance
- Adjustable lower control arms and revised track-bar bracket help maintain steering geometry after lift
- Sway-bar quick disconnects and hardware provided for off-road flexibility
- Reported issues with shock longevity, spring sag, and surface corrosion under heavy use
Verdict: The best heavy-duty lift kit uses beefed-up components and rugged hardware to withstand demanding driving conditions and heavier loads for mechanically minded owners.
Choosing the Right Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7L CRD Lift Kit: Key Factors to Consider
Lift Height and Intended Use
Choosing the correct lift height is the first and most impactful decision. A small leveling or 1 to 2 inch lift improves tire clearance and allows moderate tire size increases while preserving stock handling characteristics. Taller lifts in the 3 to 4+ inch range increase off-road capability but change suspension geometry and may require additional parts such as control arm drop brackets, track bar relocation, or longer brake lines.
Think about how you use the Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7L CRD. If most driving is on-road with occasional trails, a modest lift preserves ride comfort and component life. For frequent off-road use with large tires, prioritize a kit engineered to maintain proper suspension travel and alignment settings to avoid premature wear on CV joints and steering components.
Compatibility With Tire Size
A primary reason owners install lift kits is to fit larger tires. Each lift height supports a range of tire diameters and widths before trimming or body modification becomes necessary. Pay attention to wheel offset and backspacing recommendations that accompany lift kits because improper wheel setup can negate the clearance gains and introduce rubbing on the inner fender or suspension parts.
Also consider speedometer calibration and gearing implications when increasing tire diameter. Larger tires can affect acceleration and fuel economy, and on some vehicles may require recalibrating the speedometer or adjusting differential gearing for optimal performance.
Impact on Ride Quality and Handling
Different lift systems change the vehicle's ride dynamics. Spacer-based kits that raise the body or axle without altering spring rates tend to preserve the factory spring characteristics but may produce a harsher ride if not paired with matching shocks. Conversely, full-coil or long-arm lift kits usually include tuned springs and shock absorbers designed to restore or improve on-road comfort while delivering increased travel for off-road use.
Consider whether you prioritize daily comfort or off-road articulation. Pay attention to included shock valving and whether the kit requires shock replacement. A poorly matched shock can magnify body roll, increase nose dive under braking, or degrade highway stability.
Installation Complexity and Required Modifications
Installation difficulty varies widely between kits. Simple spacer or coil spring lift kits are often bolt-in and can be installed with common tools and a lift, while long-arm or coilover systems may require professional alignment, welding, or replacement of control arms and brackets. Factor in whether you have access to specialized tools or prefer a professional installation.
Also check for necessary supporting modifications. Some lifts need brake line extensions, new sway bar links, track bar relocation kits, or drive shaft adjustments. Budget both parts and labor when evaluating total installation impact on the Grand Cherokee 2.7L CRD.
Durability and Corrosion Resistance
Lift kit components are exposed to harsh conditions including moisture, road salt, and impacts. Materials and finishes matter: thicker steel, quality welds, and corrosion-resistant coatings extend service life. Polyurethane or greasable bushings typically outlast factory rubber bushings under load and repeated articulation, but may transmit more noise and vibration into the cabin.
Evaluate manufacturer material specs and whether replacement bushings or hardware are readily available. Durable components reduce the frequency of follow-up repairs and maintain consistent alignment and handling characteristics over time.
Effect on Drivetrain and Warranty Considerations
Raising the ride height changes angles for CV joints, drive shafts, and steering linkages. Excessive lift without addressing these angle changes can accelerate wear on universal joints and CV boots. Some kits include provisions to correct angles, such as drop brackets or extended components, while others rely on owners to source corrective parts.
Confirm how a lift will interact with any existing drivetrain modifications or remaining factory warranty coverage. Even when warranty is not a concern, anticipating increased wear and planning for inspections of CV joints, driveshaft U-joints, and steering components can reduce downtime and repair costs.
Types of Lift Kits Suited to the 2.7L CRD
There are several lift kit architectures that perform well on the Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7L CRD depending on goals. Spacer-style lifts replace or add to coil spring isolators to gain modest height without changing spring rates. Coil spring lift kits replace springs with taller or progressive-rate coils to maintain ride balance for increased height. Long-arm or suspension arm kits move pivot geometry to preserve wheel travel for bigger lifts and more aggressive off-road use.
Each architecture brings tradeoffs in cost, ride quality, and installation complexity. Spacer kits are economical and simpler to install but offer limited travel. Coil spring and long-arm systems deliver better long-term performance for larger lifts and more frequent off-road use.
- Spacer or strut spacer lifts — quick, lower cost, limited travel
- Coil spring replacement kits — better ride and taller lifts
- Long-arm or control-arm kits — best articulation and alignment control
Wheel and Tire Considerations After Lifting
Lifting the Grand Cherokee changes wheel well clearance and can permit a range of larger tire options, but wheel choice is equally important. Offset and backspacing determine how far a tire sits outward or inward relative to suspension components and the fender lip.
When planning tires, consider overall diameter and width, as well as the intended terrain. Aggressive off-road tires need more clearance for sidewall flex in low-pressure conditions, while all-season tires are less demanding. Confirm recommended wheel offsets from the kit documentation and anticipate minor trimming or fender rolling for very large combinations.
- Check recommended wheel offset/backspacing with the chosen lift height
- Remember aggressive tires need extra clearance for flex
- Test fit or mock-up assemblies before final installation
Maintaining Steering Geometry and Alignment
A lift alters steering angles and can increase bump steer or thrust angles if not corrected. Track bar relocation, adjustable control arms, or caster-correcting components help restore proper geometry for predictable steering feel. After any lift install, a professional alignment is essential to set camber, caster, and toe within safe tolerances.
If you plan to mix and match components, prioritize parts that allow adjustability so you can fine-tune geometry after the vehicle is loaded or after tire changes. Proper geometry reduces tire wear and keeps handling predictable both on-road and off-road.
- Install track bar relocation or adjustable arms when recommended
- Always perform a full alignment after lift installation
- Consider adjustable components for future tuning
Braking and ABS Sensor Considerations
Increasing wheel diameter and altering suspension height can affect brake performance and ABS sensing. Larger tires increase rotational inertia, which can lengthen stopping distances if braking capacity is not addressed. Verify that brake lines have sufficient length after lift and that ABS sensor locations remain within spec.
In some cases, upgrading brake components or ensuring proper pad and rotor condition offsets the increased demands of larger tires. Confirm that any lift-related changes do not cause chafing or interference with hoses, sensors, or brake hardware.
- Check brake line length and routing after lift
- Inspect ABS sensor positions for interference
- Consider brake condition relative to increased tire mass
Practical Tips for Installation Day
Preparing ahead reduces surprises. Gather all required parts, torque tools, alignment references, and any necessary replacement hardware before starting. Use quality jack stands and follow vehicle service manual procedures for safe removal and reinstallation of suspension components.
Document bolt locations and measurements before disassembly to make reinstallation easier. Where kits call for new bushings or grease fittings, pre-lubricate components to prevent binding. If you lack experience with suspension work, plan for a professional installation to ensure safety and correct geometry.
- Confirm all included hardware and torque specs before starting
- Have alignment shop scheduled for after installation
- Keep a checklist for brake line, sway bar, and track bar clearances
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Jeep Grand Cherokee configuration to see the most relevant Lift Kits recommendations
How We Chose the Best Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7L CRD Lift Kit
We selected these lift kits using a clear, vehicle-specific editorial framework centered on real-world use for the Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7L CRD. Key criteria included fitment accuracy to the 2.7L CRD suspension layout and mounting points, verified compatibility with common tire size increases, and the impact on drive-train components such as control arms and CV joints. Ride quality under both on-road and light off-road conditions was weighed heavily, with attention to shock valving, control arm geometry, and suspension travel. Durability and hardware quality were evaluated by looking at material thickness, finish, and mounting hardware standards. Installation complexity and required complementary parts, such as brake line extensions, track bar relocation, or alignment needs, were also considered. We excluded kits that required extensive chassis modification beyond bolt-on components or that lacked documented fitment for the 2.7L CRD configuration. We also deprioritized options that did not support commonly desired tire sizes or that introduced known adverse effects on steering geometry. The resulting picks balance capability, longevity, and a manageable installation footprint for owners of this specific Grand Cherokee.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will a lift kit affect my fuel economy?
Yes, raising ride height and fitting larger tires can reduce fuel economy. Increased aerodynamic drag and greater rotational mass from bigger tires typically lower highway mileage. The magnitude depends on lift height and tire size.
How much does installation usually add to a lift kit project?
Installation complexity varies. Simple spacer kits may be installed by a competent DIYer with common tools, while coil spring or long-arm systems often require professional labor and an alignment. Labor time and local shop rates determine final installation cost.
Do I need to regear the axles after putting on larger tires?
Regearing is not always necessary but becomes advisable when tire diameter increases substantially and you notice a loss in acceleration or excessive engine load. It depends on driving expectations and desired performance with the new tire size.
Can I install a lift kit at home or should I use a shop?
Many owners can install basic spacer or coil spring kits at home if they have proper tools and experience. More complex kits that alter control arms or steering geometry are best handled by a professional to ensure safety and correct alignment.
Will lifting the Grand Cherokee require new shocks?
Often yes. Some lift kits include matched shocks, while spacer-style lifts may require longer or differently valved shocks to maintain ride quality. Using correct-length shocks prevents bottoming out and preserves handling.
How often should suspension components be inspected after a lift?
Inspect suspension and drivetrain components after the first few hundred miles, then at regular service intervals. Check for loose hardware, bushing wear, and abnormal tire wear to catch issues early.
Final Verdict
Pick a lift that matches how you intend to use the Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7L CRD and prioritize solutions that preserve steering geometry and component longevity. Modest lifts are the best compromise for those who drive daily and hit trails occasionally, while coil spring or long-arm systems better suit owners seeking aggressive off-road performance. Factor in installation complexity, necessary corrective components, and the impact on tires and brakes to arrive at a confident, safe choice.
Explore More:
- Check out all Jeep Grand Cherokee parts & accessories
- Explore Suspension & Steering
- Browse all Accessories
