Ever look at your Subaru Outback and think, “I wish I could go just a little bit further?” Maybe you dream of exploring bumpy dirt roads or tackling trails that your current Outback can’t quite manage. Your Outback is a fantastic car, but sometimes, you need a little more ground clearance to truly unleash its adventurous spirit.
But then comes the big question: which lift kit is the best for your Outback? It can feel overwhelming! There are so many brands, sizes, and types, and it’s easy to get confused. You want to make sure you pick a kit that’s safe, reliable, and actually does what you want it to do, without causing problems down the road. That’s where we come in.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about lift kits for your Subaru Outback. We’ll cover what they are, what to look for, and how to choose the perfect one for your adventures. Get ready to transform your Outback and discover a whole new world of possibilities!
Our Top 5 Lift Kit For Subaru Outback Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Lift Kit For Subaru Outback Detailed Reviews
1. ReadyLIFT 69-90200 2.0” SST Lift Kit For Subaru Outback AWD
Rating: 9.1/10
The ReadyLIFT 69-90200 2.0” SST Lift Kit is a fantastic upgrade for your 2020-2023 Subaru Outback AWD. It gives your Outback a tougher look and better ground clearance for all your adventures. This kit is designed to be easy to install, so you can get back on the road or trail quickly.
What We Like:
- It provides a 2.0-inch lift in the front and a 1.5-inch lift in the rear, giving your Outback a more aggressive stance and improved off-road capability.
- The installation is a simple bolt-on process, meaning you don’t need to make any permanent changes to your vehicle.
- It includes new front sway bar end links, which are important for maintaining proper handling after lifting your vehicle.
- The unique offset spacer design helps to correct your vehicle’s caster and camber angles, ensuring your Outback drives straight and true.
What Could Be Improved:
- The lift heights are slightly different between the front and rear, which might not be ideal for everyone.
- While the installation is described as easy, some users might still find it challenging without prior experience.
This lift kit is a great way to give your Subaru Outback a more rugged look and better clearance. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to take their Outback off the beaten path.
2. ReadyLIFT 69-95200 2.0” SST Lift Kit w/End Links For Subaru Outback AWD
Rating: 8.5/10
Want to give your 2015-2019 Subaru Outback a tougher look and better off-road ability? The ReadyLIFT 69-95200 2.0” SST Lift Kit is here to help! This kit lifts your Outback by 2 inches in the front and 1.5 inches in the rear. This means you get more ground clearance for exploring new paths. Plus, it lets you fit bigger tires, up to a 245/65-17 tire on a 17×8 wheel with a +38 offset. This kit also upgrades your sway bar end-links. These new end-links get rid of the wobble you might feel with the original ones. They help your Outback handle better on rough roads.
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What We Like:
- Gives your Subaru Outback a 2″ front and 1.5″ rear lift.
- Allows for larger tires, up to 245/65-17.
- Increases ground clearance for better off-road driving.
- Upgraded end-links improve handling and reduce flex.
- It’s designed specifically for 2015-2019 Subaru Outback AWD models.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some mechanical skill or professional help.
- The kit only offers a specific lift height, so you can’t choose different amounts of lift.
This lift kit is a fantastic way to enhance your Outback’s capability and style. It’s a great upgrade for anyone wanting to take their adventures further.
3. Tuff Country 51730 2″ Lift Kit Compatible with/Replacement for Subaru Outback 2015-2022
Rating: 8.5/10
Ready to give your Subaru Outback a bit more ground clearance and a tougher look? The Tuff Country 51730 2″ Lift Kit is designed to do just that for your 2015-2022 Outback. This kit helps your Outback tackle rougher roads and trails with more confidence.
What We Like:
- It increases your Outback’s height by 2 inches.
- This gives you more space for bigger tires.
- It allows your Outback to handle uneven terrain better.
- Installation is straightforward for many DIYers.
- It improves the overall off-road capability of your vehicle.
What Could Be Improved:
- The kit does not include new shocks or struts.
- Alignment might be needed after installation, which costs extra.
- There are no specific instructions provided for this particular model.
The Tuff Country 51730 kit offers a good way to upgrade your Subaru Outback’s off-road potential. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a bit more capability from their vehicle.
4. maXpeedingrods 3″ Front & Rear Lift Kit for Subaru Outback/Legacy 2000-2004
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to give your Subaru Outback, Legacy, or Baja a new look and better capability? The maXpeedingrods 3″ Front & Rear Lift Kit is here to help. This kit lifts your vehicle by 3 inches, front and rear. It also lets you fit bigger tires and wheels. This means your Subaru can handle more and look tougher.
What We Like:
- Great Fitment: This kit is designed specifically for Subaru Outback/Legacy models from 2000-2004 and Subaru Baja models from 2003-2006.
- Strong and Safe: Made from tough billet aluminum, these spacers are built to last. They offer superior strength and keep your ride safe.
- More Clearance: The 3-inch lift gives your Subaru a more aggressive stance and allows for larger tires. This improves ground clearance.
- Smooth Ride: You won’t lose comfort. The kit helps maintain your Subaru’s original smooth ride and handling.
- Good Support: maXpeedingrods offers a 1-year warranty and lifetime technical support. They stand behind their products.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Complexity: While the kit itself is well-made, installing a lift kit can be challenging for beginners. Some mechanical knowledge is helpful.
- Wheel Alignment: After lifting your vehicle, it’s important to get a professional wheel alignment. This is an extra step and cost.
This maXpeedingrods lift kit is a solid upgrade for your Subaru. It enhances both the look and the off-road potential of your vehicle.
5. maXpeedingrods 3″ Lift Kit for Subaru Forester 1998-2008 Impreza 2002-2007
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to give your Subaru or Saab a tougher look and better off-road capability? The maXpeedingrods 3″ Lift Kit is here to help! This kit is designed to raise your vehicle by 3 inches, front and rear. This means you get more space to fit bigger tires and wheels, giving your ride a more aggressive stance and the ability to tackle rougher terrain.
What We Like:
- More Clearance: The 3-inch lift gives you extra room for larger tires and rims, making your Subaru or Saab look more rugged and capable.
- Strong and Durable: Made from tough carbon steel, this kit is built to last. It includes all the necessary parts like strut spacers, strong studs, and high-quality bolts.
- Easy Installation: You don’t need to take apart your struts or use a spring compressor. The kit bolts directly on top of your existing struts, making it a straightforward upgrade.
- Wide Compatibility: This kit fits a good range of Subaru models including Forester (1998-2008), Impreza (2002-2007), Legacy (1995-1999), and Outback (1995-1999). It also works for the Saab 92-X (2005-2006).
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Model Years: While it covers a good range, always double-check the exact fitment for your specific vehicle year and model to ensure compatibility.
This lift kit is a solid choice for anyone wanting to enhance their vehicle’s appearance and performance. It offers a significant upgrade in ground clearance with a user-friendly installation process.
Lift Kit for Subaru Outback: Your Guide to a Higher Adventure
So, you want to give your Subaru Outback a little extra height? That’s awesome! A lift kit can unlock new adventures for your Outback, letting you tackle rougher roads and explore more off-the-beaten-path spots. This guide will help you find the perfect lift kit.
Key Features to Look For
When picking a lift kit, keep these important things in mind:
- Lift Height: This is how much taller your Outback will be. Common heights are 1 to 3 inches. More lift means you can fit bigger tires, but it can also affect how your car handles.
- Lift Type: There are a few ways to lift your car. Spacers are the simplest and most affordable. They go above your springs. Other kits might replace your springs and shocks for a more complete upgrade.
- Tire Clearance: A lift kit lets you put on bigger tires. Bigger tires give you more ground clearance and better grip off-road. Make sure the kit you choose allows for the tire size you want.
- Alignment Correction: When you lift a car, its alignment can get messed up. Some kits include parts to fix this, keeping your tires from wearing out too fast and making sure your car drives straight.
- Durability: You want a kit that lasts. Look for strong materials and good craftsmanship.
Important Materials
The stuff your lift kit is made from really matters for how long it lasts and how well it works.
- Steel: Many lift kits use steel. It’s strong and can handle tough conditions. Look for powder-coated steel to stop rust.
- Aluminum: Some spacers are made of aluminum. It’s lighter than steel but still strong.
- Polyurethane: You might see polyurethane used in some suspension parts. It’s tough and can absorb bumps well.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a lift kit great or not so great?
What Makes a Lift Kit Better:
- Good Design: Kits designed to work with your Outback’s specific suspension will fit better and perform best.
- High-Quality Materials: Strong steel or aluminum, and durable coatings, mean your kit will last longer.
- Included Alignment Parts: If the kit helps fix alignment issues, that’s a big plus.
- Reputable Brand: Brands known for making good car parts usually offer reliable lift kits.
What Can Make a Lift Kit Lower Quality:
- Cheap Materials: Thin metal or materials that rust easily won’t last long.
- Poor Fitment: If a kit isn’t made for your exact Outback model, it might not fit right. This can cause problems.
- No Alignment Correction: Forgetting to include parts to fix alignment can lead to tire wear and poor driving.
- Too Much Lift: Lifting your car too high without other suspension upgrades can make it unstable.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use lift kits for their Subaru Outbacks?
Most Outback owners who get lift kits want to:
- Go Off-Roading: They want to drive on gravel roads, dirt trails, and over small obstacles.
- Add Bigger Tires: This improves ground clearance and looks.
- Improve the Look: A lifted Outback often looks more rugged and ready for adventure.
- Handle Snow and Ice Better: More ground clearance can help in snowy or icy conditions.
Most users find that a modest lift (1-2 inches) is perfect for everyday driving and light off-roading. It makes the car more capable without changing the ride too much. If you plan on serious off-roading, you might need more lift and other suspension upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the typical lift height for a Subaru Outback?
A: Most lift kits for Subaru Outbacks offer between 1 and 3 inches of lift. A 1.5-inch to 2-inch lift is very common.
Q: Can I install a lift kit myself?
A: Some simpler kits, like spacer lifts, can be installed by a confident DIYer. However, more complex kits might require special tools and knowledge. It’s often best to have a professional mechanic install it.
Q: Will a lift kit affect my Outback’s gas mileage?
A: Yes, lifting your car and adding bigger tires can slightly reduce your gas mileage. This is because the engine has to work a bit harder.
Q: What size tires can I fit with a lift kit?
A: This depends on the lift height. A 1.5-inch to 2-inch lift usually allows for tires that are about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than stock. Always check the specific kit’s recommendations.
Q: Do I need to get an alignment after installing a lift kit?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended. Lifting your vehicle changes the suspension angles, and an alignment ensures your tires wear evenly and your car drives straight.
Q: Will a lift kit make my ride rougher?
A: A small lift with spacers might not change the ride much. However, some kits that replace springs and shocks can alter the ride quality, sometimes making it firmer.
Q: Are lift kits legal everywhere?
A: Most lift kits for SUVs are legal, but it’s always a good idea to check your local laws and regulations regarding vehicle modifications.
Q: What’s the difference between a spacer lift and a spring lift?
A: A spacer lift adds pucks or spacers above your existing springs and struts. A spring lift replaces your stock springs with taller, stiffer ones, and often includes new shocks.
Q: How long does a lift kit usually last?
A: With quality materials and proper installation, a lift kit can last for many years and tens of thousands of miles. It depends on the brand, materials, and how you drive your car.
Q: Can I still use my Outback for daily driving with a lift kit?
A: Yes, most lift kits, especially smaller ones, are designed to still allow for comfortable daily driving. They just add a bit more capability for when you want to venture off the pavement.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Sean Kernan, the voice behind esteeringwheel.com.. With a passion for all things automotive, I created this platform to share my journey, insights, and expertise about cars. From the latest tech to timeless driving tips, my goal is to help fellow enthusiasts and everyday drivers navigate the fascinating world of automobiles. Welcome to my corner of the road—let’s steer toward knowledge and discovery together!