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If you are looking to raise ground clearance, add space for larger tires, or give your 2011-2019 Ford Explorer a more capable stance, the right lift kit makes a big difference. Lift kits change ride height, suspension geometry, and load capacity, so picking a kit that fits the Explorer s suspension and your driving needs matters for daily driving and off-road use.This guide shortlists the top options for the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer and explains the tradeoffs among ride comfort, durability, and ease of installation. Below you will find our top picks followed by the decision factors we used to evaluate each kit and practical guidance for installation and use.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Lift Kit The best all-around lift kit balancing performance and reliability | Truxxx 2.5" Front / 1.5" Rear Leveling Lift Kit for Ford Explorer (2011–2019) |  |
| Best Budget Lift Kit A low-cost kit that improves height without breaking the bank | SCITOO Leveling Lift Kit for 2011-2019 Ford Explorer (2.5" Front, 1.5" Rear) |  |
| Best Premium Lift Kit Higher-end components and tuning for superior ride and longevity | Rough Country N3 Loaded 2" Front Leveling Struts for Ford Explorer (2011–2019) |  |
| Best Adjustable Lift Kit Kits with tunable or modular components for fine height control | SCITOO 3" Front Leveling Kit for Ford Explorer (2011–2019) |  |
| Best Heavy-Duty Lift Kit Built with thicker materials and reinforced parts for hard use | KSP PERFORMANCE Explorer Suspension Lift Kit (Front 2.5", Rear 1.25") for 2011–2019 Explorer |  |
| Best 2-Inch Lift Kit A modest-height kit focused on minimal changes and improved clearance | Truxxx 2" Front Leveling Kit for Ford Explorer (2011–2019) |  |
1. Truxxx 2.5" Front / 1.5" Rear Leveling Lift Kit for Ford Explorer (2011–2019)
Best Overall Lift Kit
| Compatible vehicles | Ford Explorer 2011–2019 (2WD and 4WD, incl. Police Interceptor) |
|---|---|
| Front lift | 2.5 Inches |
| Rear lift | 1.5 Inches |
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
| Included components | Front strut mounts, rear strut mounts, shock brackets, sway bar extension, hardware |
This Truxxx kit is a vehicle-specific leveling lift designed to give 2011–2019 Ford Explorers a more level stance by lifting the front about 2.5 inches and the rear about 1.5 inches while using the stock struts and shocks. Installation is familiar to an experienced DIYer or an independent shop since the kit includes front and rear strut mounts, shock brackets, sway bar extension, and all necessary hardware plus alignment specs and instructions. Because it is engineered to work with factory components, it keeps the Explorer close to OEM ride and handling rather than turning the vehicle into an off-road rig. The kit is built from North American steel with grade 8.8/10.9 fasteners, so durability and fitment are strong points. Important limitations are that it is intended for road and light gravel use only and will not make the Explorer suitable for serious off-road trails, and buyers must measure front-to-rear rake and test-fit wheels and tires after installation to avoid clearance issues.
Best for: Buyers who want a reliable, factory-compatible way to level and slightly lift a 2011–2019 Ford Explorer for improved stance and the option to run slightly larger tires while keeping daily driving comfort.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a true off-road lift, large suspension travel gains, or heavy-duty trail capability should choose a full suspension lift designed for off-road performance instead.
- Vehicle-specific design for 2011–2019 Ford Explorer ensures correct fit and included alignment specs.
- Uses factory struts and shocks so the stock ride quality is largely retained without mandatory shock replacement.
- Comes with full hardware, sway bar extension, and clear installation instructions for straightforward DIY or shop install.
- Constructed from North American milled steel and high-grade fasteners for durable, shop-quality build.
- Not designed to convert the Explorer into a true off-road vehicle and not recommended for heavy off-road use.
Verdict: The best all-around lift kit for most buyers, delivering a balanced combination of ride quality, durability, installation simplicity, and cost-effectiveness for routine DIY installation and use.
2. SCITOO Leveling Lift Kit for 2011-2019 Ford Explorer (2.5" Front, 1.5" Rear)
Best Budget Lift Kit
| Fitment | 2011-2019 Ford Explorer 2WD/4WD |
|---|---|
| Front lift | 2.5" |
| Rear lift | 1.5" |
| Material Type | Aluminum |
This SCITOO leveling lift kit is a bolt-on spacer kit designed to lift 2011–2019 Ford Explorer models by 2.5 inches in front and 1.5 inches in the rear. It works by replacing or stacking on top of the factory strut components to level the truck, give a more aggressive stance, and create additional clearance for slightly larger tires up to the listed diameter. The kit is machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and ships with hardened bolts, so it is lighter than steel options and resists corrosion when anodized. Installation is straightforward and intended to be completed in a couple of hours without cutting or complex suspension modifications, which keeps labor and installation costs low. Because this is a spacer-style leveling kit it preserves the stock suspension geometry and ride feel better than a full suspension lift, but it will not provide the same off-road articulation or load capacity as a multi-inch suspension lift. Buyers should also plan a post-install alignment and expect only modest increases in ground clearance compared with heavier-duty lift systems.
Best for: Cost-conscious buyers who want a simple, low-cost way to level and mildly raise a 2011–2019 Ford Explorer for looks and slightly larger tires while minimizing installation complexity.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning heavy off-road use, significant suspension travel increases, or those who need higher load-carrying capacity should choose a full suspension lift instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2011–2019 Ford Explorer for straightforward compatibility.
- 6061-T6 aluminum construction keeps kit lightweight and corrosion resistant.
- Comes with hardened bolts and anodized finish for durability.
- Bolt-on design requires no cutting and is intended for quick installation.
- Maintains near-factory ride and steering characteristics compared with heavier lifts.
- Spacer-style lift does not improve suspension travel or heavy-load performance.
Verdict: The best budget lift kit for cost-conscious buyers who want straightforward height increase and acceptable durability while keeping parts and installation costs to a minimum.
3. Rough Country N3 Loaded 2" Front Leveling Struts for Ford Explorer (2011–2019)
Best Premium Lift Kit
| Fitment | 2011–2019 Ford Explorer |
|---|---|
| Lift Height | 2" |
| Included Components | (2) N3 Loaded Struts |
| Auto Part Position | Front Left, Front Right |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Rubber, Zinc |
These Rough Country N3 loaded struts are a bolt-on front suspension upgrade for 2011–2019 Ford Explorers equipped with a 2" lift, delivering a lifted, leveled stance and firmer on- and off-road control. They come fully assembled with preloaded coil springs so installation only requires removing the factory struts and fitting these units, which simplifies the swap and saves time. The design emphasizes durability and ride performance using a large 1 3/8" bore, hardened chromed piston rod, nitrogen charging to reduce aeration, and precision valving for more consistent damping. In practice that translates to crisper turn-in, reduced body roll, and steadier braking on rough roads while still aiming for a factory-like comfort level. The powder-coat finish and leak-proof seals address corrosion and longevity. Limitations are that these are vehicle-specific front struts for Explorers with a 2" lift only and they only replace the front pair, so matching rear components or alignment may be needed for balanced handling and correct ride height.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize durable, refined front suspension components and are prepared to invest in premium, long-lasting struts for frequent on- and off-road use on a lifted Explorer.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a full suspension kit that handles both front and rear replacement in one package or those who want a universal or adjustable-height solution.
- Preloaded, fully assembled units for faster bolt-on installation
- Large bore and hardened piston rod for improved durability and corrosion resistance
- Nitrogen-charged design with precision valving for more consistent damping and reduced shock fade
- Silver powder coat and leak-proof seals for better long-term protection
- Front-only kit requires complementary rear components or adjustments to fully balance a lift
Verdict: The best premium lift kit for buyers willing to pay more for top-tier materials, refined damping or spring rates, and longer-term durability under frequent use.
4. SCITOO 3" Front Leveling Kit for Ford Explorer (2011–2019)
Best Adjustable Lift Kit
| Fitment | 2011–2019 Ford Explorer 2WD/4WD |
|---|---|
| Front lift | 3 inches (front) |
This SCITOO front leveling kit is designed to give 2011–2019 Ford Explorer owners extra ground clearance and a more aggressive stance by using machined strut spacers and spring extensions to achieve roughly a 3 inch front lift. It installs at the strut top and is typically used when fitting larger tires or clearing aftermarket accessories while keeping the factory suspension components in place. The kit emphasizes precise machining for fit and long life and includes seller support for installation questions. Practical benefits include increased tire clearance and a simpler, quicker install compared with full-ride-height suspension replacements, with less complexity and cost than coilover conversions. Important limitations are that spacer lifts change geometry rather than replacing damping or spring rates, so ride quality and handling will remain largely governed by the factory valving and may feel different under heavy loads or aggressive off-road use. Also the package description stresses confirming exact year and trim fitment before purchase.
Best for: Buyers who want a straightforward way to raise a 2011–2019 Ford Explorer front ride height to fit larger tires or gain clearance while keeping the factory suspension and favor simpler installations over full suspension upgrades.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking adjustable ride damping, significant off-road performance improvements, or the ability to fine-tune suspension tuning should consider full replacement components or adjustable systems instead.
- Designed specifically for 2011–2019 Ford Explorer to raise front ride height for extra clearance
- Precision-machined strut spacers and coil spring extensions intended for consistent fit
- Quicker and less invasive installation than swapping complete struts or coilovers
- Helps accommodate larger tires and provides a more aggressive look while retaining factory suspension components
- Does not change damping or spring rates so ride and handling remain determined by the factory suspension
- Lift is produced by spacers which can alter suspension geometry and may require alignment after installation
Verdict: The best adjustable lift kit for buyers who want the flexibility to fine-tune ride height, adjust suspension geometry, or change settings as load and use evolve.
5. KSP PERFORMANCE Explorer Suspension Lift Kit (Front 2.5", Rear 1.25") for 2011–2019 Explorer
Best Heavy-Duty Lift Kit
| Fitment | 2011-2019 Explorer 2WD/4WD (no air-ride) |
|---|---|
| Front lift | 2.5 Inches |
| Rear lift | 1.25 Inches |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel |
This KSP PERFORMANCE kit is a bolt-on suspension lift package designed for 2011–2019 Ford Explorer models that do not have the air-ride option. It uses alloy steel coil spacers and included shock extenders to raise the front about 2.5 inches and the rear about 1.25 inches, letting you fit larger tires and gain more ground clearance. Installation is intended to be a 2 to 3 hour DIY job using the supplied hardware and instructions, and the kit is packaged with thicker steel plates KSP says are meant to resist heavy use. In practice the spacers and extenders provide a straightforward way to level and lift an Explorer for moderate off-road work or hauling, but this is a spacer-style kit rather than a full suspension overhaul so it does not change spring or shock valving. That means handling and ride quality will remain largely factory-like but could be affected under very heavy loads or extreme off-road use. The kit comes with a one-year manufacturer support promise and is optimized for vehicle-specific fitment, though very large tires may rub the fenders without additional trimming or adjustments.
Best for: Buyers who want a reinforced, vehicle-specific leveling lift to add clearance and fit larger tires while keeping a mostly factory ride, and who plan moderate off-road use or frequent hauling where stronger components matter.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a full heavy-duty suspension rebuild with new springs, shocks, or tuned valving for extreme off-road performance should look at complete suspension systems instead.
- Vehicle-specific design for 2011–2019 Explorer models without air-ride systems
- Thickened alloy steel construction intended to improve durability over thin spacers
- Includes all necessary hardware and shock extenders for a bolt-on install
- Relatively quick DIY installation with supplied instructions
- Spacer-and-extender approach does not update springs or shock tuning for aggressive off-road use
Verdict: The best heavy-duty lift kit for those who need reinforced components and tougher construction to withstand frequent off-road use, heavy loads, or more aggressive driving.
6. Truxxx 2" Front Leveling Kit for Ford Explorer (2011–2019)
Best 2-Inch Lift Kit
| Maximum Lifting Height | 2 Inches |
|---|---|
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Included Components | Front and rear struts, shock extension brackets, hardware and instructions |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
This Truxxx 2" front leveling kit raises the nose of 2011–2019 Ford Explorers to improve appearance, ground clearance, and tire fitment without replacing the factory struts or shocks. It is a vehicle-specific kit that uses the stock Ford struts and springs and includes front and rear strut mounts, shock extension brackets, hardware, and alignment specs so shops can install and return the ride to factory behavior. The kit is fabricated from North American steel with high-grade fasteners and laser-cut parts, which should provide durable, repeatable fitment. Practical benefits include the ability to fit taller tires (265/60R18 commonly fits with appropriate rims), retained OEM ride comfort, and clear installation instructions. Important limitations are that this is a modest, 2-inch lift meant for light-duty use on dirt and gravel roads rather than serious off-road trails, and buyers must measure vehicle rake to choose the correct front height option and verify wheel/tire clearance after installation.
Best for: Buyers who want a subtle, reliable lift to level the front, gain a bit more clearance, and mount slightly larger tires while keeping stock ride and handling characteristics.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who plan heavy off-road use, aggressive trail driving, or need large suspension travel increases should choose a more aggressive lift and suspension upgrade.
- Vehicle-specific design for 2011–2019 Ford Explorer ensures fitment and alignment details are included
- Works with factory struts and shocks so aftermarket dampers are not required to retain stock ride
- Includes front and rear strut mounts, shock extension brackets, and all hardware for a complete installation
- Made from North American milled steel and high-grade fasteners for durable construction
- Limited to a conservative 2-inch front lift and not intended to convert the Explorer into a true off-road vehicle
Verdict: The best 2-inch lift kit for buyers seeking a conservative lift that improves ground clearance and tire fitment while preserving stock handling and ride comfort.
Choosing the Right 2011-2019 Ford Explorer Lift Kit: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Vehicle Compatibility
Correct fitment is the single most important factor when choosing a lift kit for a 2011-2019 Ford Explorer. The Explorer s suspension geometry varies across model years and trim levels, so a kit that lists explicit compatibility with the 2011-2019 range reduces the risk of unexpected modifications. Proper fitment ensures mounting points align, brake lines remain the correct length, and steering components keep safe clearances.
Improperly fitting kits can introduce premature wear on ball joints, cause steering pull, or necessitate additional parts like extended sway bar links or brake-line brackets. Confirm whether a kit is intended for AWD or FWD Explorers if your vehicle has a specific drivetrain. Documentation and fitment notes from the manufacturer or supplier are valuable for avoiding installation surprises.
Lift Height and Intended Use
Choose a lift height that matches how you will use the Explorer. Small lifts in the 1 to 2.5 inch range are often aimed at leveling the vehicle and accommodating slightly larger tires while preserving near-stock ride quality. Higher lifts in the 3 to 6 inch range allow more aggressive off-road tires and greater clearance but change suspension dynamics and may require additional components.
Higher lifts increase suspension travel demands and can affect driveline angles. If you plan on regular off-road use, prioritize kits that offer matched front and rear geometry correction. For primarily street-driven vehicles, favor conservative lift heights that minimize changes to handling and maintain a comfortable ride.
Suspension Components and Quality
Inspect what the kit includes and the quality of its components. Kits can range from simple spacer or strut extension designs to full replacement coil springs, shocks, and control arms. Coil spring lift kit options that include engineered springs and matched shocks typically deliver more consistent ride characteristics than spacer-only designs.
Materials, weld quality, and protective coatings matter for long-term durability, especially in wet or salted-road climates. Higher-quality hardware and thicker-walled tubing on structural parts resist bending and fatigue. Check whether the kit supplies new fasteners and bushings or expects reuse of original hardware.
Ride Quality and Handling
A lift changes the Explorer s center of gravity and suspension kinematics, both of which affect handling and ride comfort. Some kits are tuned to preserve on-road manners with progressive springs and dampers; others prioritize off-road articulation at the expense of highway comfort. Consider how you commute and whether you tow or carry heavy loads regularly.
Expect some tradeoffs: larger lifts usually produce a firmer, more jarring ride on pavement. Shock valving and spring rates should be matched to the lift height and intended tire size to avoid bottoming, excessive body roll, or a floaty feel at speed.
Installation Complexity and Required Modifications
Installation difficulty ranges from simple bolt-on procedures you can do in a driveway to multi-hour jobs requiring shop tools and alignment work. Some kits bolt to factory mounting points with minimal disassembly, while others require control arm changes, drive-line adjustments, or trimming of plastic splash guards.
Factor in whether you will install the kit yourself or use a professional. DIY-friendly kits include clear instructions, vehicle-specific hardware, and minimal special tools. More extensive lifts may require an alignment, new track bars, or sway bar link extensions; budget for those additional services and parts.
Tire Clearance and Brake-Line Management
One common reason to lift an Explorer is to run larger tires. Check the kit s stated tire clearance limits and whether fender trimming or wheel offset changes are required. Larger tires change rotational mass and may necessitate stronger wheel bearings or frequent brake inspections.
Also verify how the kit handles brake lines and ABS sensor wiring. Some lift kits include brake-line brackets or longer braided lines to prevent stretching at full suspension droop. Ensuring adequate brake-line slack and secure wiring routing reduces the risk of damage during off-road articulation.
How Lift Height Affects Drivability
Raising the Explorer alters driveline angles and steering geometry. Small increases preserve near-stock behavior while larger lifts change steering ratio feel, increase body roll, and can make the vehicle more sensitive to crosswinds. Understanding these effects helps you pick a height that matches your daily driving expectations.
If you plan on taller tires, ask whether the kit supplies components to correct front-end geometry. Without correction, you may see vibration, uneven tire wear, or the need for frequent realignment. Balancing height with geometry correction keeps the Explorer predictable on road and trail.
- 1-2.5 inch lifts: minimal handling change, easier installation
- 3-4 inch lifts: often require geometry or track-bar correction
- 5+ inch lifts: typically need substantial suspension component upgrades
Preparing Your Explorer Before Installation
Inspect the vehicle for worn suspension parts before adding a lift. Replacing bushings, ball joints, and shocks that are near their wear limits avoids compounding issues after the lift. Also check brake lines, ABS sensors, and wheel bearings for service life so they are not overlooked during installation.
Gather necessary tools and read the kit instructions fully. Some installations require spring compressors, torque wrenches, and alignment tools. If you are uncertain about any step, plan to use a shop to handle critical suspension and alignment work.
- Perform a thorough inspection of existing suspension components
- Verify you have required tools or schedule professional help
- Measure current tire and wheel specs to plan for new clearances
Torque Specs, Alignments, and Post-Install Checks
After installation, follow the specified torque sequence for all fasteners and re-torque after a short break-in period. Newly torqued suspension bolts can settle, so a re-check at 500 to 1,000 miles is prudent. Proper torque prevents movement that can lead to clunking or accelerated wear.
An alignment is essential after any lift to correct camber, caster, and toe. Proper alignment reduces uneven tire wear and keeps steering predictable. Also inspect for any rubbing during full lock turns and test ABS and traction systems for fault codes after reconnecting sensors.
- Re-torque fasteners after initial break-in
- Complete a full four-wheel alignment
- Test steering and ABS systems on a safe stretch of road
Selecting Tires and Wheels for a Lifted Explorer
Tire size is a key companion decision when lifting an Explorer. Larger diameters provide more ground clearance but affect acceleration and braking. Width and offset determine whether tires will contact fenders or steering components. Choose tire and wheel combinations that match the kit s stated clearance recommendations.
Wheel backspacing and offset can often be adjusted to gain additional clearance without fender trimming, but avoid extremes that place added load on bearings. Consider heavier-duty wheels if you plan on serious off-road use to reduce the risk of impact damage.
- Match tire diameter to kit clearance limits
- Confirm wheel offset that maintains clearance from suspension
- Consider load rating and construction for off-road use
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership Considerations
Lifted suspension components experience different loading patterns and may require more frequent inspections. Check bushings, shocks, and fasteners at regular intervals, especially after off-road trips. Watch for accelerated wear on ball joints and tie rods caused by altered angles.
Budget for routine maintenance like alignments and potential replacement parts. Also keep an eye on fuel economy changes as larger tires and increased frontal area can reduce efficiency. Proper maintenance preserves the safety and longevity of the Explorer s modified suspension.
- Inspect suspension after off-road use
- Schedule alignments at recommended intervals
- Monitor tire wear and steering component play
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ford Explorer configuration to see the most relevant Lift Kits recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2011-2019 Ford Explorer Lift Kit
We focused on lift kits that are explicitly designed or commonly adapted for the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer and evaluated them across several practical dimensions. Our primary filters included correct fitment for the Explorer s front and rear suspension layouts, proven structural durability for lifted ride heights, and compatibility with common tire upgrades for this vehicle.Evaluation criteria used: fit and alignment impact, suspension geometry and handling, materials and corrosion protection, ease of installation and required modifications, ride quality across paved and unpaved roads, and aftermarket support for replacement parts and adjustments. We also prioritized kits that retain factory mounting points where possible and that do not require extensive cutting or welding for standard lift heights.Excluded from consideration were universal lift blocks or kits lacking vehicle-specific documentation, solutions that required major frame modification, and any options without clear technical specs or safety validation. Our short list reflects products that balance capability with practical serviceability for Explorer owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I install a lift kit on my 2011-2019 Ford Explorer myself?
It depends on the specific kit and your mechanical experience. Basic spacer or strut extension kits can be installed by experienced DIYers with the right tools, while full spring and control-arm replacements often require shop equipment. Budget for a professional alignment even if you do the mechanical work yourself.
What lift height is safe for daily driving on an Explorer?
Many owners find 1 to 2.5 inches is a reasonable compromise for daily driving, offering improved clearance and room for slightly larger tires while keeping handling changes modest. Higher lifts increase the likelihood of altered steering feel and a firmer ride.
Will a lift kit affect my Explorer s warranty or service requirements?
Modifying suspension can affect warranty coverage for parts directly impacted by the lift, depending on dealer policies and local regulations. Regardless of warranty, lifted vehicles typically need more frequent inspections of suspension and steering components, and you should follow recommended maintenance schedules more closely.
Do I need new alignment after installing a lift kit?
Yes. Any change to ride height or suspension geometry requires a full alignment to correct camber, caster, and toe. Proper alignment prevents uneven tire wear and maintains predictable steering behavior.
Can I use larger tires with a small lift on the Explorer?
Small lifts often provide enough clearance for modestly larger tires but check the kit s tire fitment recommendations. You may still need to adjust wheel offset or trim minor fender lip areas to prevent rubbing at full lock or during suspension compression.
How does a coil spring lift kit differ from spacer-style lifts?
Coil spring lift kits replace the springs with units engineered for the new ride height and load, which generally yields more consistent ride characteristics and better durability. Spacer-style lifts usually raise height by adding material to existing struts or springs and can be less predictable in ride quality over time.
Final Verdict
Choose a lift height and kit type that match how you drive your 2011-2019 Ford Explorer. If you split time between highway and occasional trails, favor conservative lifts with geometry-friendly designs that preserve on-road manners. If you need maximum clearance for off-road use and larger tires, prioritize kits that include suspension component upgrades and geometry correction.Balance ride quality, installation complexity, and long-term maintenance when deciding. With the right planning and appropriate post-install alignment, a well-chosen lift kit will safely expand your Explorer s capability while managing handling tradeoffs.
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