A 2-inch lift kit for your Jeep Wrangler provides extra clearance without requiring major modifications to your vehicle’s drivetrain. If you are searching for the best 2 inch lift kit for jeep wrangler, you have come to the right place. This guide breaks down the top kits, installation steps, and what to expect from your lifted ride.
Lifting your Jeep is a big decision. A two-inch lift is the sweet spot for many owners. It gives you room for bigger tires. It also improves off-road ability. Yet, it keeps the daily drive comfortable.
Let’s look at what makes a great lift kit. We will cover the best options on the market. You will learn how to choose the right one for your Wrangler model.
Best 2 Inch Lift Kit For Jeep Wrangler
The best kit depends on your Jeep’s model year and your driving style. Some kits are simple spacer lifts. Others include new coils and shocks. Each type has its pros and cons.
We tested and researched several top-rated kits. Below are our recommendations for the best 2 inch lift kit for jeep wrangler across different needs and budgets.
Top Pick For Budget: Rough Country 2-Inch Spacer Lift
Rough Country is a well-known name in the Jeep world. Their spacer lift is affordable and easy to install. It uses pucks that sit on top of your factory springs.
- Cost: Very low, often under $150
- Installation: DIY friendly, takes 2-3 hours
- Ride Quality: Stays close to stock
- Best For: JK and JL models on a budget
This kit does not include new shocks. Your stock shocks will work, but they may bottom out on big bumps. Many owners add shock extensions later.
One downside is ground clearance. The pucks lift the body, but the axles stay at the same height. You get tire clearance, but not more axle clearance.
Best All-Around: Teraflex 2-Inch Coil Lift
Teraflex offers a complete coil spring lift. It replaces your factory springs with taller ones. This kit often includes new shocks or shock brackets.
- Cost: Mid-range, around $400-$600
- Installation: Moderate difficulty, 4-6 hours
- Ride Quality: Improved off-road, firm on road
- Best For: JK, JKU, JL, and JLU models
The coil lift gives you real suspension travel. It does not rely on spacers. The ride is more controlled, especially when carrying gear.
Teraflex also includes a front track bar bracket. This keeps your axle centered. It reduces bump steer and wandering on the highway.
We found this kit to be the best balance of price and performance. It works well for daily driving and weekend trails.
Premium Choice: Metalcloak 2-Inch Game-Changer
Metalcloak is known for high-end suspension parts. Their 2-inch kit uses progressive rate coils. These coils are softer for small bumps but firm for big hits.
- Cost: Higher, around $800-$1,200
- Installation: Advanced, may need professional help
- Ride Quality: Excellent on and off road
- Best For: TJ, LJ, JK, and JL models
This kit includes front and rear track bars. It also has adjustable control arms. These parts correct your axle geometry after the lift.
The ride quality is top-notch. The Jeep feels planted on the highway. Off-road, the suspension flexes well over rocks and ruts.
Metalcloak kits are built to last. They come with a lifetime warranty. If you plan to off-road hard, this is a solid investment.
Best For TJ And LJ: Old Man Emu 2-Inch Lift
Old Man Emu (OME) is an Australian brand. They make heavy-duty suspension for off-road vehicles. Their 2-inch lift for TJ and LJ Wranglers is very popular.
- Cost: Mid-range, around $500-$700
- Installation: Moderate, 4-5 hours
- Ride Quality: Smooth and controlled
- Best For: TJ and LJ models
OME springs are rated by weight. You can choose light, medium, or heavy loads. This is great if you carry a winch, bumper, or camping gear.
The shocks are also high quality. They are gas-charged and resist fading. The ride is firm but not harsh. Many owners say it rides better than stock.
One thing to note: OME lifts often give a bit more than 2 inches. You might get 2.5 inches of lift from a “2-inch” kit. This is common with coil springs.
Simple And Reliable: Daystar 2-Inch Spacer Kit
Daystar makes polyurethane spacers. Their kit is similar to Rough Country but uses different materials. Daystar spacers are known for being quiet and durable.
- Cost: Low, around $150-$200
- Installation: Easy, 2-3 hours
- Ride Quality: Very close to stock
- Best For: JK and JL models
The Daystar kit includes bump stop extensions. This prevents your tires from hitting the fenders. It also includes hardware for the front and rear.
This kit is a good choice if you want a simple lift. It does not change your suspension geometry much. Your Jeep will feel almost the same, just taller.
We recommend this for beginners. It is cheap and easy to reverse if you change your mind.
What To Consider Before Buying
Choosing the best 2 inch lift kit for jeep wrangler involves more than just price. You need to think about your Jeep’s model, your driving habits, and your future plans.
Jeep Model Year Matters
Wranglers have different suspension designs. TJ models (1997-2006) use a different setup than JK models (2007-2018). JL models (2018-present) are different again.
Always check that the kit fits your exact year and model. A JK kit will not work on a JL. A TJ kit will not fit a JK.
- TJ/LJ: Coil springs front and rear, solid axles
- JK/JKU: Coil springs, more electronics
- JL/JLU: Coil springs, updated geometry
Some kits are universal for multiple models. Others are specific. Read the product description carefully.
Tire Size Goals
A 2-inch lift allows for 33-inch tires on most Wranglers. Some models can fit 35s with extra trimming or flat fenders.
Think about what tires you want now. If you plan to go bigger later, a 2-inch lift might not be enough. You may need a 3.5-inch or 4-inch lift for 35s.
For 33-inch tires, a 2-inch lift is perfect. It gives you room without looking too tall. The Jeep stays stable and easy to drive.
Driving Style And Terrain
If you mostly drive on pavement, a spacer lift is fine. It keeps the ride comfortable and costs less.
If you off-road often, invest in a coil lift with new shocks. The improved suspension travel helps on trails. It also reduces body roll on washboard roads.
For rock crawling, consider adjustable control arms. They let you fine-tune your axle position. This improves traction and handling.
Budget And Future Upgrades
Set a budget before you start shopping. A cheap spacer lift can be under $200. A complete suspension system can cost over $1,000.
Think about what you might add later. If you plan to add a winch or heavy bumper, choose a lift with heavier springs. Some kits offer different spring rates for added weight.
Also consider the cost of installation. If you cannot do it yourself, factor in labor. A professional install can cost $300 to $600.
Installation Steps For A 2-Inch Lift
Installing a lift kit is a weekend project. You need basic tools and a safe place to work. Always use jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Tools You Will Need
- Floor jack and jack stands
- Socket set and wrenches
- Torque wrench
- Spring compressors (for coil lifts)
- Penetrating oil (like WD-40)
- Safety glasses and gloves
Step 1: Prepare The Jeep
Park on level ground. Chock the rear wheels. Loosen the lug nuts on all four wheels. Then jack up the front and place jack stands under the frame.
Remove the front wheels. This gives you access to the suspension.
Step 2: Remove The Front Shocks
On most Wranglers, the front shocks are easy to reach. Remove the top and bottom bolts. Pull the shock out. You may need to compress it slightly.
For spacer lifts, you will reuse the factory shocks. For coil lifts, you will install new shocks later.
Step 3: Remove The Front Springs
Lower the axle slightly using the floor jack. This relieves pressure on the springs. Remove the spring retaining clips. Pull the spring out.
If you are installing a spacer lift, place the spacer on top of the spring. Reinstall the spring. For coil lifts, install the new coil spring.
Step 4: Install The Front Lift Components
For spacer lifts, the spacer sits between the spring and the frame. Make sure it is seated properly. Reinstall the spring and retaining clips.
For coil lifts, install the new shock. Torque the bolts to spec. Some kits include a front track bar bracket. Install it now.
Step 5: Repeat For The Rear
Move to the rear of the Jeep. Jack up the rear and place jack stands. Remove the rear wheels. Remove the rear shocks and springs.
Install the rear spacers or new coils. Reinstall the shocks. Some kits include rear bump stop extensions. Install those as well.
Step 6: Reinstall Wheels And Test
Put the wheels back on. Tighten the lug nuts. Lower the Jeep to the ground. Torque the lug nuts to spec.
Check all bolts are tight. Go for a short test drive. Listen for noises. Check for any rubbing. If everything feels good, you are done.
Common Issues And How To Fix Them
After installing a lift, you might notice some changes. Here are common issues and solutions.
Bump Steer Or Wandering
This happens when the track bar angle changes. The axle shifts to one side. A dropped track bar bracket or adjustable track bar fixes this.
Many kits include a bracket. If yours does not, buy one separately. It is a cheap fix that improves handling.
Vibration At Highway Speeds
On JK and JL models, a 2-inch lift can cause driveline vibration. This is because the pinion angle changes. You may need a transfer case drop kit.
Some owners install adjustable control arms. These correct the angle without dropping the transfer case. Both solutions work well.
Headlight Aim
When you lift the front, your headlights point higher. This can blind oncoming traffic. Most Wranglers have a headlight adjustment screw. Turn it to lower the beam.
Check your owner’s manual for the exact location. It takes only a few minutes to adjust.
Brake Line Tension
With a 2-inch lift, your brake lines might be tight at full droop. This is rare but possible. You can buy longer brake lines or brackets that lower the stock lines.
Check your brake lines after the lift. If they are stretched, replace them. It is a safety issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best 2 inch lift kit for Jeep Wrangler JK?
The Teraflex 2-inch coil lift is a top choice for JK models. It offers good ride quality and includes necessary brackets. Rough Country’s spacer kit is a budget-friendly alternative.
Will a 2 inch lift kit fit my Jeep Wrangler JL?
Yes, many kits are made for JL models. Look for kits specifically designed for 2018 and newer Wranglers. The Daystar spacer kit and Metalcloak coil lift both work on JLs.
Can I install a 2 inch lift kit myself?
Yes, with basic tools and mechanical skill. Spacer lifts are easier. Coil lifts require spring compressors. Plan for a full day of work. Always follow safety procedures.
Do I need new shocks with a 2 inch lift?
Not always. Spacer lifts reuse factory shocks. However, new shocks improve ride quality. Coil lifts usually include shocks. Check the kit contents before buying.
Will a 2 inch lift void my warranty?
It depends on the dealer and the issue. Lifts can void suspension-related warranty claims. Other parts of the vehicle are still covered. Check with your dealer for their policy.
Final Thoughts On The Best 2 Inch Lift Kit For Jeep Wrangler
Choosing the best 2 inch lift kit for jeep wrangler comes down to your needs. For a budget build, Rough Country or Daystar spacer kits work fine. For better performance, Teraflex or Metalcloak coil lifts are worth the extra cost.
Remember to consider your tire plans. A 2-inch lift pairs well with 33-inch tires. It gives you a capable off-road rig without sacrificing daily comfort.
Take your time during installation. Double-check all bolts. Test drive carefully. A proper lift will transform your Jeep’s capability and look.
We hope this guide helps you make the right choice. Happy trails with your lifted Wrangler.