Rough Country Lift Kits Good
If you’re looking to lift your truck or Jeep, you’ve almost certainly come across the name Rough Country. They are one of the most visible and popular brands in the suspension lift kit market, known primarily for their affordable pricing. But this often leads to the big question: Are Rough Country lift kits any good?
The answer, like many things in the automotive world, isn’t a simple yes or no. Rough Country occupies a specific niche in the market, and whether their kits are “good” really depends on your budget, your expectations, how you plan to use your vehicle, and what you compare them to.
Let’s break down the common perceptions, pros, and cons to help you decide if a Rough Country lift kit is the right choice for you.
Who is Rough Country?
Rough Country Suspension Systems has been around for decades, establishing itself as a major player, particularly in the budget-friendly segment of the aftermarket suspension market. They offer a vast range of lift and leveling kits for nearly every popular truck, SUV, and Jeep model, making them highly accessible.
The Pros: Why People Choose Rough Country
There are several reasons why Rough Country is so popular:
Affordability: This is Rough Country’s biggest selling point. Their kits are often significantly cheaper than those from premium competitors like Fox, King, Bilstein, Old Man Emu, or BDS Suspension. For many enthusiasts, this makes lifting their vehicle financially feasible.
Wide Availability and Selection: You can find Rough Country kits almost anywhere – online retailers, local off-road shops, etc. They also offer various lift heights and kit types (e.g., spacer lifts, full suspension lifts) for a huge array of vehicles.
Ease of Installation: Many Rough Country kits are designed with the DIY installer in mind, often featuring bolt-on designs that don’t require highly specialized tools or modifications (though professional installation is always recommended if you’re unsure).
Achieving the Look: Let’s be honest, many people lift their trucks primarily for aesthetics. Rough Country kits effectively provide that desired lifted stance, allowing for larger tires and a more aggressive look.
Lifetime Replacement Warranty: Rough Country generally offers a lifetime replacement warranty on many hard parts (like control arms, blocks, etc.), which provides some peace of mind. Note: Always check the specific warranty details for the kit you’re considering, as wear items like bushings and shocks usually have shorter warranty periods.
The Cons: Common Criticisms of Rough Country
While affordable, Rough Country kits often face criticism in certain areas:
Ride Quality: This is perhaps the most frequent complaint. Compared to factory suspension or premium lift kits, Rough Country kits (especially their lower-end options using basic shocks and stiffer components) can result in a noticeably harsher or stiffer ride. Their N3 shocks are often cited as being very basic in terms of damping performance.
Component Quality & Durability: To achieve their low price point, compromises are sometimes made in materials or component design compared to high-end brands. While generally safe and functional for typical use, some users report faster wear on bushings, ball joints (in lifted knuckles/arms), or shocks, especially under heavy use or harsh conditions.
Off-Road Performance: While adequate for light trails and general off-roading, serious rock crawlers or high-speed desert runners usually opt for more robust and better-performing suspension systems. Rough Country’s basic kits may lack the travel, damping control, and durability needed for extreme use.
Use of Lift Blocks: Many of their more affordable rear lift options rely on larger lift blocks instead of new leaf springs or more sophisticated setups. While functional, very tall blocks can increase axle wrap (axle twisting under acceleration/braking) compared to other methods.
So, Are Rough Country Lift Kits Good For You?
Consider these factors:
Your Budget: If price is the absolute primary driver, Rough Country is hard to beat.
Your Primary Use:
Daily Driving/Mostly Pavement/Aesthetics: A Rough Country kit is often perfectly adequate and achieves the desired look affordably. Be prepared for a potentially firmer ride than stock.
Moderate Off-Roading/Weekend Trails: Many find Rough Country kits sufficient for less demanding trails and general recreational off-roading.
Heavy/Extreme Off-Roading/High Speed: You’ll likely want to invest in a higher-end kit with better shocks, stronger components, and more sophisticated designs for durability and performance.
Your Ride Quality Expectations: If maintaining a smooth, near-factory ride is crucial, you might be disappointed with entry-level Rough Country shocks. Consider their kits with upgraded shocks (like Vertex coilovers) or look at other brands known for ride comfort.
Longevity Concerns: If you plan to keep the vehicle long-term and use it hard, investing more upfront in a premium kit might lead to fewer component replacements down the road.
The Verdict
Rough Country lift kits are good for their intended market: budget-conscious buyers who primarily want the lifted look for on-road use or engage in light to moderate off-roading. They offer an accessible way to achieve a desired stance and fit larger tires.
However, if your priorities are superior ride quality, maximum durability, and high-performance off-road capability, you will likely find that investing more in a premium brand yields better results and potentially greater long-term satisfaction. It’s a classic case of “you get what you pay for.”
Before buying, research specific reviews for the exact kit designed for your vehicle model, as quality and components can vary. Reading forums and watching video reviews from actual users can provide valuable insights beyond the marketing hype.
What’s your experience with Rough Country lift kits? Share your thoughts in the comments!