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If you drive a Subaru Forester Sport and want more ground clearance, better approach angles, or room for larger tires, a properly chosen lift kit makes a big difference. Upgrading suspension height changes how the vehicle handles on pavement and off-road, so picking kits that suit the Forester Sport's weight, suspension geometry, and intended use matters.This guide covers the six top lift kits shortlisted for the Forester Sport and explains the practical tradeoffs between ride comfort, load capacity, and off-road capability. We evaluate kits on fitment accuracy, ride and handling, durability, and installation considerations to help you pick a setup that matches your priorities. Read on to compare strengths and where each type of kit excels.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Forester parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Lift Kit Top all-around lift kit that balances ride, fit, and durability | ReadyLIFT 69-99210 2" SST Lift Kit for Subaru Forester (2019–2023) |  |
| Best Budget Lift Kit Low-cost spacer or basic kit that raises clearance affordably | maXpeedingrods 3" Front & Rear Strut Spacer Lift Kit (Vehicle Specific) |  |
| Best 3" Lift Kit Kits that provide a full three-inch lift for more ground clearance | maXpeedingrods 3" Lift Kit Strut Spacer Set for Subaru Forester/Impreza/Legacy/Outback |  |
| Best Aluminum Spacer Kit CNC-machined aluminum spacer kits that are lightweight and corrosion resistant | Wsays 3" CNC Billet Aluminum Strut Lift Spacers for Subaru (2008–2018) |  |
| Best Steel Reinforced Kit Heavy-duty steel spacer kits and brackets built for durability | Generic Reinforced 30mm Steel Lift Kit for Subaru Forester/Impreza/XV (2012–2017) |  |
| Best Loaded Strut Lift Kit Pre‑assembled, nitrogen‑charged or loaded struts with lift and springs | Rough Country N3 Loaded Front Struts for Subaru Forester (2014–2018) — 2" Lift |  |
1. ReadyLIFT 69-99210 2" SST Lift Kit for Subaru Forester (2019–2023)
Best Overall Lift Kit
| Fit years | 2019-2023 |
|---|---|
| Front lift | 2.0 Inches |
| Rear lift | 1.5 Inches |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
This ReadyLIFT SST lift kit is a vehicle-specific solution for 2019–2023 Subaru Forester owners who want a modest, functional height increase without a major suspension overhaul. The kit uses offset fabricated steel strut extensions up front and a matched rear lift to deliver 2.0 inches of front lift and 1.5 inches at the rear, which increases ground clearance and allows fitment of larger 225/65-17 tires on 17×8 wheels with a +38 mm offset. Notable features include upgraded sway bar end-links designed to avoid relocation brackets and an offset spacer design that retains factory camber and caster. Install is described as a bolt-on process that is faster than many competitors and avoids cradle drops or permanent modifications. In practice this should keep ride quality and handling close to factory while giving more rockered clearance for light off-road use. Limitations include possible minor trimming for certain tire tread patterns and that the kit is intended specifically for the stated Forester model years and configurations, so it is not a heavy-duty off-road suspension replacement.
Best for: A DIY-minded Forester owner who wants a balanced, easy-to-install lift that increases ground clearance and tire fitment while keeping near-factory ride and handling.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking large lifts, long-travel off-road setups, or a full suspension overhaul should look at heavier-duty kits or coilover solutions instead.
- Vehicle-specific design preserves factory camber and caster using offset spacers
- Enables 225/65-17 tires on 17×8 wheels with +38 mm offset for increased clearance
- Upgraded sway bar end-links remove the need for relocation brackets
- Bolt-on installation that is faster than many competitor kits and requires no cradle drop
- May require minor trimming with some tire brands and aggressive tread patterns
- Not intended as a heavy-duty or extreme off-road suspension upgrade
Verdict: The Best Overall pick is the balanced, easy-to-install lift kit we recommend for most DIY mechanics who want a reliable height increase without sacrificing ride quality or fitment.
2. maXpeedingrods 3" Front & Rear Strut Spacer Lift Kit (Vehicle Specific)
Best Budget Lift Kit
| Included Components | Strut Spacers |
|---|---|
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Set Name | 3-Inch Front & Rear Strut Spacer Kit |
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 3 inches |
This maXpeedingrods strut spacer kit raises the vehicle by 3 inches using machined carbon steel spacers that bolt onto the factory struts. It is a straightforward bolt-on solution intended to provide extra clearance for larger tires without the need to disassemble springs or use a spring compressor, so installation is achievable with basic hand tools and moderate mechanical experience. The kit includes hardened studs and high-grade bolts to secure the spacers and is advertised as a vehicle-specific fit for several Subaru models. Practical benefits include a quick increase in ride height for improved off-road clearance and the ability to fit more aggressive tire sizes while keeping cost and installation time low. Important limitations are that it is a spacer-style lift only, so it does not change spring or shock rates and may affect suspension geometry and ride quality; additional alignment and possible bump stop or drive-line adjustments may be required after installation.
Best for: Buyers who want the lowest-cost, minimal-effort way to add around 3 inches of clearance and fit larger tires while keeping installation simple and mostly bolt-on.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a complete suspension upgrade for improved handling, load capacity, or long-travel off-road performance should consider full lift kits with matched shocks and springs instead.
- Simple bolt-on design that does not require spring disassembly or a spring compressor
- Machined carbon steel spacers and included hardened studs and bolts for secure mounting
- 3-inch lift provides noticeable clearance gain to fit larger tires
- Vehicle-specific fitment reduces need for custom modification
- Spacer-only design does not address shocks, springs, or steering geometry which can change handling
Verdict: Choose the Best Budget option if you need the cheapest, bolt-on lift solution to add clearance and fit larger tires while keeping installation simple and inexpensive.
3. maXpeedingrods 3" Lift Kit Strut Spacer Set for Subaru Forester/Impreza/Legacy/Outback
Best 3" Lift Kit
| Included Components | strut spacers |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 3 inches |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This maXpeedingrods kit uses machined carbon steel spacers to lift compatible Subaru models roughly 3 inches front and rear, giving extra ground clearance and room for larger tires. Installation is a bolt-on procedure that places the spacer on top of the existing strut assembly, so you avoid spring compressors or full strut disassembly, though the listing recommends professional installation and alignment. The package includes front and rear spacers plus hardened studs and bolts, so you get the core hardware needed to complete the fitment. Because the spacers are steel and precisely machined they should hold up well under normal driving and light off-road use, but this is a simple spacer-style lift so suspension geometry is unchanged and ride quality can get firmer. The kit does not include instructions, which raises the bar for DIYers, and it is intended for specific model years only, so confirm exact fit before buying. Expect to follow up with alignment and possibly different tire sizing to fully realize the off-road benefit.
Best for: Buyers who want a clear 3-inch height gain for a Subaru to fit bigger tires and improve clearance while keeping the factory struts in place and preferring a relatively simple bolt-on modification.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking full suspension performance upgrades, corrected geometry for heavy off-road use, or a turnkey solution with detailed installation guidance should consider alternative multi-component lift systems.
- Achieves approximately 3 inch front and rear lift to increase ground clearance and allow larger tires
- Precision-machined carbon steel spacers for strength and durability under load
- Bolt-on design avoids strut disassembly and spring compressors for faster install
- Includes hardened studs and bolts so most hardware is provided for installation
- No printed instructions included so professional installation or strong DIY experience is recommended
- Spacer-style lift does not correct suspension geometry or change spring/damper rates
Verdict: This slot is for kits that deliver about 3 inches of lift—ideal for owners who want a noticeable height gain to run bigger tires and improve off-road capability.
4. Wsays 3" CNC Billet Aluminum Strut Lift Spacers for Subaru (2008–2018)
Best Aluminum Spacer Kit
| Material Type | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Maximum Lifting Height | 3 inches |
| Auto Part Position | Top |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
These Wsays strut spacers are a precision-machined aluminum kit intended to provide a simple, lightweight way to lift the front and rear suspension on supported Subaru models up to roughly 3 inches. The kit bolts between the strut top hat and mount, so installation is a straightforward bolt-on job when no other modifications are required. Because the parts are CNC billet 6061 aluminum they resist corrosion, stay light, and present a clean, factory-quality look in the engine bay. The listing notes the lift amount is produced by spacer geometry rather than a one-to-one thickness relationship, and additional components may be needed depending on vehicle setup or prior modifications. The kit ships with necessary bolts but not a printed instruction manual, so installers should be comfortable following online guides or have a mechanic handle the job. For drivers wanting a minimal, visually tidy lift without replacing springs or shocks, these spacers deliver a compact, corrosion-resistant option; those needing full suspension re-tuning or guaranteed exact ride height may prefer a different approach.
Best for: Buyers who want a lightweight, corrosion-resistant spacer kit that looks factory-finished and provides a straightforward bolt-on lift for supported Subaru Sport models.
Less Ideal for: Anyone seeking a complete suspension overhaul, exact calibrated ride-height tuning, or those unwilling to consult installation guides or a professional installer.
- Precision CNC 6061 aluminum construction resists corrosion and keeps weight low
- Bolt-on design installs between strut top hats for a relatively simple fitment
- Includes necessary mounting bolts for installation
- Designed to provide up to 3 inches of lift with a clean, factory-style appearance
- No printed instructions included and installation may require a professional on some setups
Verdict: Pick an aluminum spacer kit when you want a precision-machined, lightweight lift solution that resists corrosion and looks factory‑finished under the hood.
5. Generic Reinforced 30mm Steel Lift Kit for Subaru Forester/Impreza/XV (2012–2017)
Best Steel Reinforced Kit
| Maximum Lifting Height | 1.18 inches |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
| Auto Part Position | Front, Rear |
| Included Components | Front and rear 30 mm spacers, nuts, installation hardware |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This reinforced lift kit uses carbon steel strut spacers to add 30 mm (about 1.18 inches) of ride height to compatible Subaru Forester, Impreza and Crosstrek/XV models. It is intended as a rugged, low-complexity way to increase ground clearance, reduce scrape on steep driveways and allow modestly larger wheel/tire fitment without swapping suspension components. The kit includes two front and two rear 30 mm spacers plus nuts and basic hardware and installs at the strut tops so a competent home mechanic or an independent shop can fit it in a few hours. Because the spacers are steel and reinforced they prioritize durability and resistance to deformation under load, making them a practical choice for light off-road use and vehicles that carry heavier rear loads. Limitations are that this is a spacer-only lift rather than a full suspension overhaul, so it does not change spring rates, damping, or axle geometry and may require alignment and attention to wheel fitment after installation.
Best for: Buyers who want a tough, long-lasting way to boost clearance and accommodate slightly larger tires on a Subaru Forester or similar models while keeping installation simple and reversible.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a full suspension performance upgrade, significant lift, or changes to ride quality and handling should consider complete spring or strut replacements instead.
- Reinforced carbon steel construction resists deformation under load
- Includes both front and rear 30 mm spacers plus installation hardware for a complete vehicle-height solution
- Simple strut-top installation suitable for a DIYer with basic tools or a quick shop job
- Provides only a small, fixed height increase and does not alter springs or dampers
Verdict: This slot highlights steel, powder-coated spacer kits and reinforced components for buyers who prioritize ruggedness and long-term durability over weight savings.
6. Rough Country N3 Loaded Front Struts for Subaru Forester (2014–2018) — 2" Lift
Best Loaded Strut Lift Kit
| Set Name | N3 Loaded Struts |
|---|---|
| Included Components | (2) Premium N3 Loaded Struts |
| Auto Part Position | Front Left, Front Right |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel, Rubber, Zinc |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3 Year Warranty |
These Rough Country N3 loaded front struts replace the factory front struts with a bolt-in unit that comes pre-assembled with coil springs, eliminating the need for a spring compressor. They are nitrogen charged and tuned with velocity-sensitive valving to reduce bounce and maintain road contact after a 2-inch lift, which helps preserve ride comfort and steering control on stock and mildly modified Forester Sport setups. The heavy-bore design and chrome-hardened piston rod are built for durability on mixed paved and light off-road use, and the painted finish resists corrosion. Installation is straightforward: remove the factory strut, bolt these in, and you get immediate lift and improved stability without dismantling strut assemblies. Limitations are that these are front struts only and are intended for the specified Forester 4WD years, and they cannot be run with strut spacers so fitment choices are constrained.
Best for: Buyers who want a straightforward bolt-in lift that preserves ride quality and handling while avoiding spring compressors, especially those fitting a 2014–2018 Forester Sport looking for a modest 2-inch lift.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a full suspension overhaul, larger lifts, or adjustable corner-specific tuning should consider full kits or coilovers instead.
- Preloaded coil springs for bolt-in installation without a spring compressor
- Nitrogen-charged design and velocity-sensitive valving for reduced bounce and improved handling
- Massive bore and chrome-hardened piston rod built for increased durability
- Specifically tuned for the listed Subaru Forester application to maintain factory-like ride
- Front-only kit so rear suspension upgrade may be needed for balanced handling
Verdict: Choose a loaded strut kit if you want pre‑installed springs and dampers for a bolt‑in swap that preserves ride control and eliminates spring compressors.
Choosing the Right Subaru Forester Sport Lift Kit: Key Factors to Consider
Lift Height and Intended Use
Choosing the right lift height is the first decision because it directly affects tire fitment, center of gravity, and how the Forester Sport drives. A modest 1 to 1.5 inch lift can create enough clearance for slightly larger tires and moderate trail obstacles while preserving near-stock handling. Taller lifts provide more off-road capability and obstacle clearance but increase body roll and may require additional suspension or steering changes.
Think about where you will drive most. Daily-driven Forester Sport owners who only need clearance for occasional dirt roads will want lower-height kits that minimize handling compromises. If you plan frequent off-road trips, prioritize kits that deliver more suspension travel and robust components to handle repeated impacts.
Suspension Type and Ride Quality
Lift kits come in different forms, from simple spacer-based strut lifts to full suspension upgrades with new springs and shocks. The kit type determines ride quality. Spacer lifts keep most stock components and are lighter and cheaper, but may transfer more road imperfections to the cabin. Complete suspension lift kits that include matched springs and dampers are engineered to maintain better ride control and damping across varying terrain.
For the Forester Sport, which balances on-road manners with occasional off-road use, prefer kits that tune spring and damper rates for the vehicle's weight and typical loads. Consider whether the kit's shock valving or spring rate will result in a firmer ride that matches your driving style.
Tire Clearance and Wheel Fitment
One common reason to lift a Forester Sport is to fit larger-diameter or wider tires. Confirm the kit's advertised clearance for specific tire sizes and wheel offsets because not all lifts translate directly into usable tire room. Some lifts also affect suspension travel paths, increasing the chance of rubbing during full compression or steering lock.
Check the interplay between wheel offset, backspacing, and tire sidewall height. In many cases, modest lift combined with a conservative tire size or a mild change in wheel offset yields the best compromise between traction and avoiding rubbing on fenders or suspension components.
Alignment, Steering Geometry, and Safety
Raising a vehicle alters suspension geometry and can lead to changes in camber, toe, and steering behavior. Proper alignment after installation is essential to prevent uneven tire wear and preserve predictable handling. Some lifts require additional components such as extended control arms, adjustable tie rods, or camber correction to restore proper geometry.
Consider whether the kit includes or recommends corrective components, and plan for a post-install alignment. Also assess how the lift affects steering response and braking dynamics; a taller vehicle has a higher center of gravity, which influences body roll and emergency handling.
Durability and Material Quality
Lifts expose suspension parts to different load paths and stresses, so component quality matters. Look for kits that use durable materials, corrosion-resistant coatings, and proven mounting hardware. Bushings and ball joints should be rated for increased articulation where applicable.
Durability is especially important if you drive on rough roads or carry extra gear. Inferior materials or undersized fasteners can accelerate wear and create maintenance headaches. Verify whether replacement parts are available and whether warranties cover structural failures.
Installation Complexity and Serviceability
Installation effort ranges from a few hours for simple spacer kits to full-day jobs for coil spring or multi-component lifts. Consider whether you will install the kit yourself or use a professional. Kits that require cutting, welding, or advanced alignment adjustments raise the labor requirement.
Also consider serviceability after installation. Kits that retain factory mounting points and use common fastener sizes make future maintenance easier. If the kit changes normal service procedures, factor those additional costs and time into your decision.
Types of Lift Kits Suitable for Forester Sport
Lift solutions for the Forester Sport typically include strut spacer lifts, coil spring lift kits, and full suspension packages with matched shocks. Spacer lifts raise the body relative to the strut without changing spring rate, offering a simple route to extra clearance for slightly larger tires.
Coil spring lift kits replace or modify the stock springs to increase ride height while allowing for tuned spring rates. Full suspension packages go further by offering shocks matched to the new springs, which helps control body motion and improves off-road performance for more aggressive use.
- Strut spacer lifts: minimal parts, easier install, modest height gains
- Coil spring lift kits: improved ride tuning, better long-term dynamics
- Full suspension kits: best for repeated off-road use and larger lifts
Practical Tire and Wheel Combinations
When upgrading tire size on a Forester Sport, balance diameter and width to avoid rubbing at full steering lock or during suspension compression. Modest diameter increases with a slightly taller sidewall are often the safest route.
Wheel offset matters as much as tire size. Lower offsets move the tire outward and can create rubbing against fender liners, while higher offsets tuck the tire inward and may contact suspension components. Use the kit manufacturer's guidance for recommended tire sizes and wheel offsets to reduce trial and error.
- Small diameter increase plus taller sidewall preserves rolling circumference
- Check recommended wheel offsets to avoid fender or suspension interference
- Retain enough brake clearance when selecting wheel design
Installation Overview and Typical Steps
Installation steps differ by kit but commonly include safely supporting the vehicle, removing wheels, disconnecting sway bar end links or brake line brackets as needed, and replacing or installing lift components. Reassembly may require torqueing fasteners to specified values and checking for interference.
A post-install alignment is essential. Some installs may need auxiliary parts such as extended sway bar end links, bump stop adjustments, or adjustable control arms to restore factory suspension geometry and preserve steering precision.
- Always follow manufacturer torque specs and safety procedures
- Plan for an alignment after installation
- Consider having a professional inspect brake line and ABS sensor routing
Legal and Warranty Considerations
Raising vehicle ride height can affect how a vehicle is classified for regulatory or inspection purposes in some jurisdictions. Check local laws regarding allowable lift heights and any inspection requirements before modifying your Forester Sport.
Modifying suspension may influence warranty coverage on related components. Document factory condition before modification and keep receipts for installed parts. If maintaining some factory warranty coverage is important, consult with your dealer or warranty documentation to understand potential impacts.
- Verify local lift height regulations
- Keep installation records for warranty questions
- Understand that some warranties exclude modification-related failures
Maintaining Handling Balance After a Lift
After lifting, prioritize shock valving and spring rates that preserve predictable on-road handling. Anti-roll bar links and sway bar geometry may need adjustment to limit excess body roll. Properly matched dampers help reduce pogo or oscillation at highway speeds.
If you plan to carry gear or tow occasionally, factor additional load into spring selection. Some kits offer progressive springs or optional helper springs to maintain ride height under load without overly stiffening the unloaded ride.
- Upgrade shocks when changing spring rates
- Consider adjustable components for fine-tuning
- Account for load-carrying needs when selecting springs
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Forester configuration to see the most relevant Lift Kits recommendations
How We Chose the Best Subaru Forester Sport Lift Kit
Our selection focused on lift kits and components compatible with the Subaru Forester Sport configuration. We prioritized solutions that preserve suspension geometry while providing meaningful clearance gains for larger tires and occasional off-road use. Evaluation criteria included fitment accuracy to the Forester Sport chassis and suspension, impact on ride comfort and on-road handling, durability of components under varied driving conditions, and the complexity of installation or required aftermarket adjustments.We also weighed the practical tire clearance each kit allows, whether the kit required supplemental components such as extended brake lines or sway bar end links, and how the kit affects alignment specifications. Excluded items included universal or non-vehicle-specific spacer kits that do not provide documented fitment for the Forester Sport and any components that significantly compromise safety or factory mounting points. The final list balances ease of installation, long-term reliability, and the functional gains drivers expect when lifting a Forester Sport.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How much lift can I safely add to a Forester Sport?
Safe lift depends on kit design and how you use the vehicle. Small lifts of about 1 to 1.5 inches are often safe without major geometry changes. Larger lifts usually require additional corrective components and changes to alignment settings to maintain safe handling.
Will lifting my Forester Sport void the warranty?
Lifting can affect warranty coverage in some cases, especially if a modification directly causes a failure. Coverage varies by warranty terms and region. Keep records of modifications and consult warranty documents or your dealer for specifics.
Can I install a lift kit myself?
Some spacer and simple coil spring kits can be installed by experienced DIYers with the right tools. More involved kits that require disassembly of suspension, cutting, or precision alignment are better handled by professional shops to ensure safety and proper geometry.
Will a lift kit reduce fuel economy on the Forester Sport?
Lift kits can marginally reduce fuel economy due to increased aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance from larger tires. The effect is usually modest for small lifts but becomes more noticeable with larger diameter tires or significant increases in vehicle height.
Do I need to change brakes or driveshaft components after lifting?
Most modest lifts do not require changes to brakes or driveshafts, but larger lifts that alter suspension travel or axle angles may necessitate extended brake lines, repositioned ABS sensors, or other corrective parts. Verify kit requirements before purchase.
How often should I recheck alignment after installing a lift?
Have alignment checked immediately after installation and again after a few hundred miles of driving to confirm settings have settled. Recheck annually or after any off-road events that could impact suspension alignment.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right lift for your Subaru Forester Sport comes down to matching height gains to how you drive. If you primarily drive on pavement with occasional gravel roads, favor modest lifts that preserve ride comfort and require minimal geometry correction. For frequent off-road use and larger tires, select kits that include tuned springs and matched dampers and plan for additional components to restore suspension geometry.Weigh the tradeoffs between clearance, ride quality, installation complexity, and long-term durability. Prioritize kits that document Forester Sport fitment, include or recommend necessary corrective hardware, and allow for a proper post-install alignment so you can enjoy improved capability without compromising safety.
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