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If you want more ground clearance, room for larger tires, or a more rugged stance on your 2018-2024 Chevrolet Equinox, a lift kit is the logical upgrade. The right lift balances drivability, safety, and the clearances you need for off-pavement use or aesthetic goals. This guide spotlights seven top lift kits shortlisted for fit and function on the Equinox.We evaluated candidates for installation complexity, effects on ride and handling, and whether they allow safe fitment of larger tires. Below you will find practical guidance on tradeoffs, common installation questions, and help choosing the kit that matches how you use your Equinox.
Looking for other parts? See all Chevrolet Equinox parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Lift Kit A balanced, complete leveling kit that improves clearance and stance | DEALPAREX 1.2-inch (30 mm) Leveling Lift Kit for Chevrolet Equinox and Malibu |  |
| Best Budget Lift Kit Low-cost spacer option that raises ride height without breaking the bank | DEALPAREX Rear Coil Spacers Leveling Lift Kit 0.8 inch (20mm) |  |
| Best Full Front+Rear Kit Complete front and rear spacer set including hardware for level lifting | DEALPAREX Front and Rear 20mm (0.8") Leveling Lift Kit for Chevrolet Equinox 2018–2024 / Malibu 2015–2024 |  |
| Best 1.2" Lift Kit Higher 30mm spacer set for customers wanting a noticeable but mild lift | DEALPAREX 1.2-inch (30mm) Rear Coil Spacers Lift Kit for Chevrolet Equinox & Malibu |  |
| Best 0.8" Lift Kit Subtle 20mm spacer option for a small level-up and improved looks | DEALPAREX 0.8" (20mm) Front Strut Spacers Lift Kit |  |
| Best Air-Assist Lift In-coil air helper kit that adds adjustable load-leveling capacity | Air Lift 1000 Series Air Suspension Kit 60856 |  |
1. DEALPAREX 1.2-inch (30 mm) Leveling Lift Kit for Chevrolet Equinox and Malibu
Best Overall Lift Kit
| Maximum Lifting Height | 1.2 Inches |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Polyurethane (PU) |
| Auto Part Position | Front, Rear |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This DEALPAREX leveling kit uses polyurethane strut spacers and coil spring spacers to raise both front and rear of compatible Chevrolet models by 1.2 inches, giving modest extra ground clearance and more room for larger wheels and tires. It is designed for straightforward DIY installation and ships with two strut spacers, two coil spacers and a fitting kit so you can keep factory suspension geometry while lifting the vehicle slightly. The polyurethane construction promises long service life and resistance to compression compared with softer materials, and the vehicle-specific fit reduces fitment guesswork for Equinox (2018–2024) and Malibu (2015–2024). Expect a subtle change in ride feel since this is a small lift intended for leveling and clearance rather than heavy off-road use; it will not increase suspension articulation or change load capacity. For owners who want a simple, low-cost way to lift and fit larger wheels without major suspension changes, this kit delivers a practical, no-fuss option.
Best for: A DIY owner who wants a simple, factory-friendly way to level their Equinox and create room for larger wheels without altering suspension geometry or doing heavy modification.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking significant lift, heavy off-road performance, increased payload capacity, or major changes to suspension dynamics should consider full suspension lift kits instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Chevy Equinox 2018–2024 and Malibu 2015–2024 reduces adjustment work during installation
- Includes strut spacers, coil spacers and fitting kit for a complete front and rear leveling solution
- Polyurethane construction offers durability and resistance to permanent compression compared with cheaper foams or plastics
- 1.2-inch lift is modest and not intended for serious off-road clearance or increased suspension travel
Verdict: The go-to choice for DIYers who want a straightforward, well-rounded lift solution that raises ride height and keeps factory suspension geometry intact.
2. DEALPAREX Rear Coil Spacers Leveling Lift Kit 0.8 inch (20mm)
Best Budget Lift Kit
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Material Type | Polyurethane |
These DEALPAREX rear coil spacers are a simple bolt-on way to add roughly 0.8 inch of lift to the back of compatible Chevrolet models. The kit includes two coil spacers and a fitting kit so installation is typically a few basic steps using hand tools and no major suspension disassembly. Made from high density polyurethane, the spacers are intended to resist compression and weathering better than cheap plastics and they mainly serve to increase ground clearance, reduce rear squat when adding slightly larger wheels and tires, and give a subtly more level stance. Because they are coil spacers rather than full strut replacements, they do not change damping or ride tuning and provide only modest lift suitable for light off-road clearance or aesthetic upgrades. Expect an inexpensive, easy install solution that is best for owners who want a small, reversible lift without altering factory ride characteristics.
Best for: Buyers who want a low-cost, easy-to-install rear lift to gain a bit more clearance or a leveled look without changing the factory suspension feel.
Less Ideal for: People seeking large lifts, improved off-road suspension performance, or changes to ride comfort and handling should look at full strut or suspension kits instead.
- Simple bolt-on installation with included fitting kit
- Adds about 0.8 inch of rear lift to improve clearance and stance
- Made from high-density polyurethane for durability and weather resistance
- Specifically vehicle-fit for Chevrolet Equinox 2018–2024 and Malibu 2015–2024
- Only provides modest lift and does not change shock damping or ride tuning
Verdict: Choose this pick if you want an inexpensive coil/strut spacer that provides modest lift and easy bolt-on installation with minimal tools.
3. DEALPAREX Front and Rear 20mm (0.8") Leveling Lift Kit for Chevrolet Equinox 2018–2024 / Malibu 2015–2024
Best Full Front+Rear Kit
| Compatible models | Chevrolet Equinox 2018–2024; Chevrolet Malibu 2015–2024 |
|---|---|
| Lift height | 0.8 inch (20mm) |
| Includes | 2 strut spacers, 2 coil spacers, fitting kit |
| Material | Polyurethane |
| Auto part position | Front, Rear |
This full kit provides both strut spacers for the front and coil spacers for the rear plus a fitting kit to create an even, factory-aligned 0.8 inch lift on compatible Chevrolet Equinox and Malibu models. Installation is intended to be straightforward for a competent DIYer or shop since the kit is vehicle-specific and includes the mounting hardware you need. The components are molded from high-density polyurethane, which resists compression better than cheap plastics and should hold ride height while remaining corrosion resistant. The lift improves ground clearance enough for light off-road use and to fit slightly larger wheels and tires without major alignment changes. Limitations are modest lift height and lack of adjustable components, so this is not a replacement for performance suspension or heavy off-road setups; any alignment check after installation is still recommended. Expect minimal changes to ride quality but not a dramatic change in handling character.
Best for: Buyers who want a simple, factory-aligned small-level lift across both axles to gain clearance or fit slightly larger wheels while keeping installation straightforward.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking large lifts, adjustable suspension tuning, or heavy-duty off-road performance should consider full suspension upgrades instead.
- Complete front and rear kit includes strut spacers, coil spacers, and fitting hardware for an even lift
- High-density polyurethane construction resists compression and corrosion for long service life
- Vehicle-specific fit for Equinox 2018–2024 and Malibu 2015–2024 simplifies installation and alignment
- Fixed 0.8 inch lift height with no adjustability for fine tuning or larger lift needs
Verdict: This slot fits a full kit that includes both strut and coil spacers plus mounting hardware for an even, factory-aligned lift across the vehicle.
4. DEALPAREX 1.2-inch (30mm) Rear Coil Spacers Lift Kit for Chevrolet Equinox & Malibu
Best 1.2" Lift Kit
| Fitment | Equinox 2018–2024; Malibu 2015–2024 |
|---|---|
| Lift height | 1.2 inch (30 mm) |
| Position | Rear |
| Material Type | Polyurethane |
| Included components | 2 coil spacers, fitting kit |
These DEALPAREX coil spacers are a simple rear lift solution that bolt into place to raise the vehicle 1.2 inches (30 mm). Designed for Chevrolet Equinox 2018–2024 and Malibu 2015–2024, the kit includes two coil spacers and a fitting kit so installation can be done without replacing springs or shocks. Made from high-density polyurethane, the spacers are intended to resist compression and last under normal road and light off-road use. Practical benefits include improved ground clearance for larger wheels or tires and a slightly more aggressive stance without changing suspension geometry or ride components. The install is straightforward for a competent DIYer or shop and keeps costs and complexity far lower than a full lift. Limitations are that this is a rear-only spacer set, so ride height change is modest and may alter rear ride characteristics; it does not replace a full suspension upgrade for serious off-road use or heavy-load situations.
Best for: Buyers who want a simple, low-cost way to gain about an inch of rear lift to run larger wheels or improve clearance while avoiding a full suspension overhaul.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning serious off-road use, heavy towing, or a coordinated front-and-rear lift should choose a full suspension kit or professional upgrade instead.
- Adds a modest 1.2 in (30 mm) lift to help fit larger wheels or increase clearance
- Vehicle-specific fit for listed Equinox and Malibu model years simplifies compatibility
- High-density polyurethane construction resists compression for long service life
- Includes fitting kit for bolt-in installation without replacing springs or shocks
- Rear-only spacers provide limited overall vehicle lift and may change rear ride feel
Verdict: Pick this when you want the larger 1.2-inch (30mm) lift thickness to fit bigger wheels/tires and improve ground clearance without major suspension changes.
5. DEALPAREX 0.8" (20mm) Front Strut Spacers Lift Kit
Best 0.8" Lift Kit
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front |
| Material Type | Polyurethane |
| Included Components | fitting kit |
These DEALPAREX strut spacers lift the front of compatible Chevrolet models by 0.8 inch (20mm) using high-density polyurethane spacers and a supplied fitting kit. They sit on top of the front strut to correct front-end rake, free up clearance for slightly larger tires, and give a marginally taller stance without changing springs or shocks. Installation is typically straightforward for a mechanically competent DIYer or shop since the kit includes hardware and the parts are vehicle-specific. The polyurethane material is described as durable and resistant to compression so the height should remain consistent over time, but spacers do not change damping or spring rate, so ride feel and handling remain essentially factory. Limitations are that this only lifts the front, offers a small amount of lift, and is not a substitute for a full suspension upgrade for heavy off-road use or larger tire lifts. Fitment is limited to the listed Equinox and Malibu model years, so confirm vehicle fit before buying.
Best for: Buyers who want a minimal, factory-friendly front lift to level stance or fit slightly larger tires while keeping stock ride characteristics and a simple installation process.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking large lifts, full suspension changes, significant off-road capability, or a rear lift should look at more comprehensive suspension kits instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for listed Chevrolet Equinox and Malibu years simplifies installation
- Includes fitting kit with hardware so no separate parts are required
- High-density polyurethane construction resists compression for consistent ride height
- Small 0.8-inch lift preserves factory ride quality while adding modest clearance
- Only raises the front by 0.8 inch and does not alter springs or damping
- Not intended for heavy off-road use or major tire size increases
Verdict: Ideal for buyers seeking a modest 0.8-inch (20mm) front or rear lift to correct rake and allow slightly larger tires while retaining stock ride feel.
6. Air Lift 1000 Series Air Suspension Kit 60856
Best Air-Assist Lift
| Set Name | 1000 Series |
|---|---|
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Included Components | 2 Air springs, Mounting Brackets, All hardware, Installation guide |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel, Aluminum |
The Air Lift 1000 Series kit is a simple, coil-spring-compatible air helper designed to reduce rear sag, bottoming out, and sway when towing or hauling. It installs inside the factory rear coil and uses two pressurized cylinders with an accessible airline so you can adjust support from about 5 to 35 PSI with any compatible air source. The kit is targeted at light towing and cargo loads and gives drivers a straightforward way to fine-tune rear ride height and maintain a level stance under load. Installation requires basic tools and follows the included illustrated guide, and the unit is built from alloy steel and aluminum for durability. It does not include an onboard compressor or electronic controls, so inflation is manual unless you add a separate compressor system. For owners who want a low-cost, compact way to add up to 1,000 pounds of leveling capacity without modifying the coil or swapping major suspension parts, this kit is a practical choice.
Best for: Drivers who regularly tow or carry varying rear loads and want an inexpensive, compact way to restore level stance and control without replacing major suspension components.
Less Ideal for: People who need automatic or in-cab air management systems or who routinely carry extremely heavy commercial loads that exceed light-duty leveling solutions.
- Installs inside the factory coil spring for a neat, hidden fit and preserves ride quality when unloaded
- Provides up to 1,000 pounds of load-leveling capacity for towing and hauling
- Air-adjustable support from about 5 to 35 PSI lets you fine-tune rear firmness and stance
- Includes mounting brackets, hardware, and an illustrated installation guide for DIY fitting
- Does not include an onboard compressor or manifold for on-the-fly inflation and requires a separate air source
Verdict: This pick suits owners who need load-leveling and adjustable support (air inside the coil) for towing, hauling, or fine-tuning ride height on the fly.
Choosing the Right 2018-2024 Chevrolet Equinox Lift Kit: Key Factors to Consider
Lift Height and Intended Use
Lift height determines what you can expect from your Equinox in terms of ground clearance and tire compatibility. Small lifts, often 1 to 2 inches, primarily make room for slightly larger tires and create a more aggressive look without greatly changing suspension geometry. Larger lifts, from 2 to 3 inches or more, increase off-road capability but can change steering feel and require additional modifications.
Consider how you drive the vehicle most often. If you do occasional dirt roads and want modest tire upsizing, a lower lift that preserves stock handling is appropriate. For frequent off-road use or significant tire increases, a taller kit designed to maintain suspension travel and control is necessary, but expect extra work such as extended brake lines or modified sway-bar links.
Compatibility With Larger Tires and Wheels
One of the main reasons owners add a lift is to fit larger tires. Not all lift kits provide the same clearance or address potential rubbing points. Pay attention to the recommended maximum tire diameter and required wheel offset to avoid contact with control arms, fenders, or inner liners.
Also factor in whether the kit requires trimming of plastic trim, fender rolling, or aftermarket wheels with different backspacing. Some kits only enable a modest tire increase without further modification, while others create the space needed for substantially larger, more aggressive tires.
Effect on Ride Quality and Handling
Any lift changes suspension geometry and can affect ride comfort, on-road handling, and braking. Kits that relocate mounting points or use long-travel components aim to preserve suspension behavior, while simple spacers or strut extensions can increase harshness or induce body roll if not paired with appropriate damping.
When choosing, weigh whether you prioritize daily comfort or a firmer, controlled feel suited to rough terrain. Also consider how the kit interacts with the Equinox's electronic stability systems; kits that alter track width or roll center may change how those systems respond.
Installation Complexity and Required Parts
Installation ranges from straightforward bolt-on kits to systems that require spring and strut swapping or additional brackets. Complexity affects labor time, required tools, and the likelihood of needing shop installation.
Check whether the kit includes necessary ancillary components like extended brake lines, brake proportioning adjustments, sway-bar links, or camber/caster correction hardware. Kits that preserve factory mounting points and leverage original components tend to be faster to install and easier to reverse.
Alignment and Long-Term Maintenance
After any lift installation, a professional alignment is essential. Changing ride height alters camber, caster, and toe settings, which affects tire wear and steering behavior. Some lifts include alignment shims or adjustable components to make post-install adjustments easier.
Consider long-term maintenance items such as increased wear on ball joints, CV axles, and bushings when suspension angles change. A kit that minimizes adverse geometry changes will usually reduce added maintenance needs over time.
Materials, Corrosion Resistance, and Warranty Considerations
Look for quality materials and protective finishes on all suspension components. Steel parts should be properly coated to resist corrosion, and bushings should be durable enough for mixed on- and off-road use.
Warranty coverage and manufacturer support matter for parts that face heavy stress. Kits with clear warranty terms and available replacement components reduce long-term ownership risk, particularly in regions with road salt or frequent off-road exposure.
Common Lift Height Options for the Equinox
Equinox owners typically choose modest lift increments to balance street manners with improved clearance. Common choices include 1 to 1.5 inches for a mild lift, 2 inches for moderate clearance and tire room, and 2.5 to 3 inches for more ambitious tire upgrades and off-road capability. Each increment has tradeoffs in terms of required hardware and expected changes to suspension geometry.
Smaller lifts often use strut spacers or coil spring revisions and leave most factory components in place. Taller lifts usually require replacement springs or extended top mounts and may need changes to sway-bar links or brake line routing. Match lift height to your primary use to avoid unnecessary complexity.
- 1 to 1.5 inches: cosmetic, minor tire fitment
- 2 inches: balanced for light off-road and larger tires
- 2.5 to 3 inches: enables significant tire upsizing, increased installation needs
Types of Lift Systems Suitable for the Equinox
There are several approaches to lifting the Equinox. Coil spring lift kits replace or modify the front and sometimes rear springs to raise ride height while preserving damping characteristics. Spacer-style kits use small inserts above the strut to increase height without changing spring rates but may change ride feel.
Other systems include strut or spring-top spacers, lift spindle options, and full suspension kits that include longer shocks and reindexed mounting points. Choose the system that aligns with your comfort, handling, and installation willingness.
- Coil spring lift kit: replaces springs for balanced geometry
- Strut spacer: simple but may affect ride quality
- Full suspension lift: for larger lifts and preserved travel
Preparing Your Equinox for Installation
Before starting a lift installation, prepare the vehicle with a fresh inspection. Confirm current suspension condition, including shocks, struts, bushings, and ball joints. Worn components can lead to poor performance and accelerated wear after a lift.
Gather necessary tools, a clear workspace, and any ancillary parts the kit requires. Plan for a professional alignment after installation and set aside time to recheck fasteners and clearances after the first few hundred miles.
- Inspect suspension for wear and replace worn parts first
- Have alignment shop lined up prior to installation
- Keep torque specs and fastener locations handy
Installation Time, Costs, and When to Use a Professional
Installation time varies with kit type and skill level. Spacer-style installations can be completed in a few hours by an experienced DIYer with proper tools, while full spring-and-shock swaps may take longer and require a spring compressor and press. Expect additional time for brake-line adjustments and sway-bar link changes if required.
Professional installation is recommended when the kit requires spring compression, bracket modifications, or suspension geometry corrections. Professional shops can also verify torque specs and perform a detailed alignment, which reduces the risk of premature wear or steering issues.
- Simple spacer kits: a few hours with basic tools
- Spring and strut swaps: several hours, specialty tools
- Complex kits or unknown fitment: seek professional installer
How a Lift Affects Towing, Fuel Economy, and Electronics
Raising ride height changes vehicle aerodynamics and center of gravity, which can affect fuel economy slightly and alter towing dynamics. If you tow with your Equinox, choose a lift that does not excessively raise the hitch height relative to your trailer or cargo setup without corrective measures.
Electronic stability control, traction control, and ABS operate based on sensor geometry and wheel speed. While these systems will continue to function, altering tire diameter and suspension geometry can change their thresholds. Plan for recalibration or conservative driving until you understand how the vehicle behaves.
- Expect small fuel economy impact with larger tires or higher lift
- Towing may require hitch height adjustments
- Drive cautiously post-install to understand electronic system behavior
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Chevrolet Equinox configuration to see the most relevant Lift Kits recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2018-2024 Chevrolet Equinox Lift Kit
Our selection process focused on real-world fitment and usability for the 2018-2024 Chevrolet Equinox. We prioritized kits engineered specifically for this model years range and excluded generic or universal systems that require extensive fabrication. Selection criteria included: a) Verified vehicle-specific fitment and alignment tolerances to avoid control-arm or CV-joint interference; b) Impact on ride quality and suspension geometry, including whether the kit preserves factory steering and braking behavior; c) Compatibility with larger tire diameters and recommended wheel offsets, plus whether lift components affect wheel well or fender clearance; d) Installation complexity and required ancillary parts, such as extended brake lines, sway-bar end-links, or alignment kits; e) Durability of materials and corrosion protection for components exposed to road salt and off-road conditions; f) Whether the kit maintains or restores factory suspension travel and damping characteristics.We excluded systems that demand custom welding, frame modification, or repeated aftermarket adjustments. The final seven kits were chosen because they meet the above dimensions while offering differing lift heights and installation profiles to suit street, light off-road, and tire-fitment priorities.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will a lift kit void my Equinox warranty?
Installing a lift kit does not automatically void the vehicle's entire warranty, but related damage caused by the lift could be denied. Coverage depends on the warranty terms and whether the aftermarket parts directly caused the issue.
How big of a tire can I fit after lifting my Equinox?
Maximum tire size depends on lift height, wheel offset, and whether you trim or roll fenders. Modest lifts typically allow a modest increase in tire diameter, while taller lifts combined with proper wheel selection can accommodate significantly larger tires.
Do I need new alignment after installing a lift kit?
Yes. Any change to ride height alters camber, caster, and toe, so a professional alignment is necessary to ensure proper tire wear and handling.
Can I install a lift kit myself on the Equinox?
Some kits are designed for competent DIYers and require only basic tools, while others need spring compressors or suspension disassembly and are best handled by professionals. Assess your skills and the kit's requirements before deciding.
Will a lift kit change my Equinox's fuel economy?
Larger tires and increased ride height can reduce fuel economy slightly due to added rolling resistance and aerodynamic changes. The degree depends on tire size and lift height.
Are extended brake lines required with a lift on the Equinox?
Extended brake lines are sometimes required for taller lifts to maintain safe brake routing and avoid stress. Whether you need them depends on the kit design and the amount of lift.
Final Verdict
When selecting a lift kit for a 2018-2024 Chevrolet Equinox, match the kit to how you use the vehicle and the tire size you want to run. Prioritize systems that preserve suspension geometry and include or clearly specify any ancillary parts needed for a safe installation. Expect to budget for alignment and possible additional hardware when choosing taller lifts.Choose a kit that balances clearance, ride quality, and installation complexity. That approach will deliver predictable handling, reduce long-term maintenance risk, and ensure your Equinox performs as expected both on the road and off.
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