Unlocking Potential: How to Lift Subaru Crosstrek for Ultimate Off-Road Adventures

The Subaru Crosstrek is a popular choice for those seeking a capable and versatile compact SUV. However, its stock suspension may not be ideal for tackling off-road adventures or achieving a more aggressive stance. If you’re looking to enhance your Crosstrek’s capabilities and give it a bolder look, lifting it is a great option. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to lift your Subaru Crosstrek, covering everything from choosing the right lift kit to installation and maintenance.

Understanding the Benefits of Lifting Your Subaru Crosstrek

Lifting your Subaru Crosstrek offers a range of benefits that can significantly enhance its performance and aesthetics. Here are some key advantages:

• Improved Ground Clearance: A lifted Crosstrek provides increased ground clearance, allowing you to tackle rough terrain, navigate obstacles, and avoid damage from rocks and debris.
• Enhanced Off-Road Performance: With a higher ride height, your Crosstrek will have better approach, departure, and breakover angles, making it more capable of traversing challenging off-road conditions.
• Improved Handling and Stability: A properly installed lift kit can enhance handling and stability by adjusting the suspension geometry.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: A lifted Crosstrek has a more aggressive and rugged appearance, making it stand out from the crowd.

Choosing the Right Lift Kit

The first step in lifting your Crosstrek is selecting the appropriate lift kit. Several options are available, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

• Spacer Lifts: These are the simplest and most affordable option. Spacer lifts involve adding spacers to the existing suspension components, increasing ride height without major modifications. However, they may compromise ride quality and suspension performance.
• Coil Spring Lifts: Coil spring lifts replace the stock coil springs with taller ones, providing a significant lift and improved ride quality compared to spacers. They also offer more adjustability for fine-tuning the ride height.
• Strut Lifts: Strut lifts involve replacing the stock struts with longer ones, offering a substantial lift and improved handling. They are more expensive than coil spring lifts but provide superior performance.
• Complete Suspension Lifts: These kits replace all major suspension components, including springs, struts, control arms, and sway bars, offering the most comprehensive lift solution. They provide the best ride quality, handling, and off-road performance but are also the most expensive option.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lift Kit

When selecting a lift kit for your Crosstrek, consider these factors:

• Budget: Lift kits range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the type and brand.
• Desired Lift Height: Determine how much lift you need based on your intended use. A 1-2 inch lift is sufficient for mild off-roading, while a 2-3 inch lift is better for more challenging terrain.
• Ride Quality: Consider the impact of the lift kit on ride quality. Some kits may affect ride comfort, while others prioritize performance.
• Installation Difficulty: Some lift kits are easier to install than others. If you’re not mechanically inclined, consider hiring a professional installer.

Installation and Maintenance

Once you’ve chosen a lift kit, it’s time for installation. While some kits can be installed by experienced DIYers, others require professional expertise. Here are some general steps involved in installing a lift kit:

• Gather Tools and Materials: Ensure you have the necessary tools and materials, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and a torque wrench.
• Prepare the Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Remove Existing Suspension Components: Carefully remove the stock suspension components according to the lift kit instructions.
• Install New Components: Install the new lift kit components, following the instructions carefully.
• Align Wheels: After installation, have your wheels aligned to ensure proper handling and tire wear.

Maintaining Your Lifted Crosstrek

After lifting your Crosstrek, it’s essential to maintain it properly to ensure its longevity and performance. Here are some key maintenance tasks:

• Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your suspension components for wear and tear, including springs, struts, shocks, and control arms.
• Fluid Changes: Change the fluid in your shocks and struts as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Wheel Alignment: Get your wheels aligned regularly, especially after driving on rough terrain.
• Tire Rotation: Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear.

Beyond the Lift: Enhancing Your Crosstrek’s Off-Road Capabilities

A lift kit is just the beginning. You can further enhance your Crosstrek’s off-road capabilities by adding other modifications. Here are some popular options:

• Off-Road Tires: Replace your stock tires with off-road tires designed for better traction and durability.
• Wheel Spacers: Use wheel spacers to widen your stance and improve stability.
• Underbody Protection: Install skid plates to protect your undercarriage from damage.
• Winch: A winch can provide additional recovery capability in challenging situations.

Embracing the Adventure: The Final Thoughts on How to Lift Subaru Crosstrek

Lifting your Subaru Crosstrek can unlock a world of off-road adventures and give your vehicle a bolder, more capable look. By carefully selecting the right lift kit, following the installation instructions, and maintaining your vehicle properly, you can enjoy the benefits of a lifted Crosstrek for years to come. Remember, safety is paramount, so always drive responsibly and be aware of your surroundings. With a lifted Crosstrek, the possibilities are endless!

What You Need to Learn

Q: How much does it cost to lift a Subaru Crosstrek?

A: The cost of lifting a Subaru Crosstrek can vary significantly depending on the type of lift kit, installation costs, and additional modifications. A basic spacer lift can cost around $200-$500, while a complete suspension lift can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more.

Q: Will lifting my Crosstrek affect its warranty?

A: Lifting your Crosstrek may void your warranty if it’s considered a modification that affects the vehicle’s safety or performance. It’s best to consult with your Subaru dealer to understand the specific terms of your warranty and how modifications might impact it.

Q: How much lift is recommended for a Subaru Crosstrek?

A: The recommended lift height depends on your intended use. For mild off-roading, a 1-2 inch lift is sufficient. For more challenging terrain, a 2-3 inch lift is recommended. However, it’s essential to consider the suspension geometry and ride quality when choosing a lift height.

Q: Can I lift my Crosstrek myself?

A: Some lift kits can be installed by experienced DIYers, while others require professional expertise. If you’re not mechanically inclined, it’s best to hire a professional installer to ensure proper installation and alignment.

Q: What are the best brands of lift kits for a Subaru Crosstrek?

A: There are several reputable brands of lift kits for Subaru Crosstreks, including:

• Rough Country: Known for its affordable and reliable lift kits.
• ReadyLift: Offers a range of lift kits with varying levels of lift and performance.
• King Springs: Specializes in high-quality coil springs for lifted vehicles.
• Icon Vehicle Dynamics: Known for its high-performance suspension components.
• Eibach: Offers a range of coil spring and strut lifts with a focus on handling and performance.