2018 Nissan Frontier Lift Kit
Upgrading Your 2018 Nissan Frontier: A Guide to Lift Kits
The 2018 Nissan Frontier is a reliable and capable mid-size truck, known for its durability and off-road potential. If you're looking to enhance your Frontier's appearance, performance, and off-road capabilities, installing a lift kit is an excellent option. This guide explores everything you need to know about 2018 Nissan Frontier lift kits, helping you make an informed decision for your truck.
Why Consider a Lift Kit for Your 2018 Frontier?
Before diving into the specifics of different lift kits, let's examine the benefits they offer:
- Improved Off-Road Capability: A lift kit increases ground clearance, allowing you to navigate obstacles like rocks, logs, and uneven terrain more easily. This is crucial for serious off-road enthusiasts.
- Larger Tire Fitment: Lifting your Frontier provides more space in the wheel wells, enabling you to install larger, more aggressive tires. These tires not only enhance the look of your truck but also improve traction in various conditions.
- Aggressive Appearance: A lifted Frontier simply looks tougher and more commanding. The increased ride height gives it a more imposing stance on the road and trail.
- Enhanced Suspension Articulation: Some lift kits improve suspension articulation, allowing your wheels to maintain better contact with the ground on uneven surfaces, leading to increased traction.
Types of Lift Kits for the 2018 Nissan Frontier
There are several types of lift kits available for the 2018 Nissan Frontier, each offering different levels of lift and complexity. Understanding the differences between these types is essential for choosing the right kit for your needs and budget.
Spacer Lift Kits
Spacer lift kits are the most affordable and easiest to install. They typically consist of spacers that are installed on top of the existing struts or coil springs, effectively raising the vehicle's ride height. These kits generally offer a 1-3 inch lift.
Pros:
- Affordable: Spacer kits are the least expensive type of lift kit.
- Easy Installation: Installation is relatively straightforward and can often be done at home with basic tools.
- Maintains Factory Ride Quality: Spacer kits generally don't significantly alter the factory ride quality.
Cons:
- Limited Lift Height: Spacer kits typically offer a smaller lift compared to other options.
- Doesn't Improve Suspension Performance: These kits only lift the vehicle; they don't improve the suspension's ability to handle rough terrain.
- Potential for Coil Bucket Contact: At higher lift amounts, spacer kits can sometimes cause the upper control arm to contact the coil bucket.
Add-A-Leaf Kits
Add-a-leaf kits are designed to increase the height and load-carrying capacity of the rear suspension. They involve adding an extra leaf spring to the existing leaf spring pack.
Pros:
- Increased Load Capacity: Add-a-leaf kits improve the truck's ability to carry heavy loads.
- Affordable: They are a relatively inexpensive way to lift the rear of the vehicle.
- Easy Installation: Installation is fairly simple and can be done at home with basic tools.
Cons:
- Can Stiffen Ride Quality: Add-a-leaf kits can make the rear suspension feel stiffer, especially when the truck is unloaded.
- Limited Lift Height: They typically only provide a small lift to the rear.
Suspension Lift Kits
Suspension lift kits are the most comprehensive and expensive type of lift kit. They involve replacing several suspension components, such as struts, shocks, springs, and sometimes even control arms. Suspension lift kits provide the most significant lift, often ranging from 3 inches or more, and substantially improve off-road performance.
Pros:
- Significant Lift Height: Suspension lift kits offer the greatest lift potential.
- Improved Off-Road Performance: These kits enhance suspension articulation, handling, and overall off-road capability.
- Better Ride Quality: High-quality suspension lift kits can improve ride quality both on and off the road.
Cons:
- Expensive: Suspension lift kits are the most costly option.
- Complex Installation: Installation is more complex and often requires professional assistance.
- Potential for Alignment Issues: After installing a suspension lift kit, it's crucial to have the vehicle properly aligned.
Choosing the Right Lift Kit for Your Needs
Selecting the appropriate lift kit depends on several factors, including your budget, intended use, and desired lift height. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
- Budget: Spacer and add-a-leaf kits are the most budget-friendly options, while suspension lift kits represent a significant investment.
- Intended Use: If you primarily use your Frontier for on-road driving with occasional light off-roading, a spacer lift kit might suffice. For serious off-road adventures, a suspension lift kit is highly recommended.
- Desired Lift Height: Consider the tire size you want to run and the amount of ground clearance you need. A larger tire typically requires a taller lift.
- Installation Skill: If you're comfortable working on vehicles and have the necessary tools, you might be able to install a spacer or add-a-leaf kit yourself. Suspension lift kits generally require professional installation.
Things to Consider Before Installing a Lift Kit
Before purchasing and installing a lift kit, keep these considerations in mind:
- Tire Size: Determine the maximum tire size you want to run. Consult online forums and resources to see what tire sizes others have successfully installed on their lifted 2018 Frontiers.
- Alignment: After installing a lift kit, it's essential to have the vehicle professionally aligned. A proper alignment ensures optimal handling and prevents premature tire wear.
- Driveline Vibrations: Lifting your Frontier can sometimes cause driveline vibrations. In some cases, a carrier bearing drop kit or longer rear driveshaft might be necessary to correct these vibrations.
- Warranty: Installing a lift kit *could* potentially void portions of your vehicle's warranty. Check with your Nissan dealer for clarification.
- Professional Installation: While some lift kits can be installed at home, suspension lift kits often require specialized tools and expertise. Consider having a professional install the kit to ensure it's done correctly and safely.
Popular 2018 Nissan Frontier Lift Kit Brands
Several reputable brands offer high-quality lift kits for the 2018 Nissan Frontier. Some popular options include:
- Rough Country: Known for their affordable and durable lift kits.
- Bilstein: Renowned for their high-performance shocks and suspension components.
- Old Man Emu (OME): A popular choice for off-road enthusiasts, offering excellent ride quality and durability.
- Pro Comp: Offers a wide range of lift kits for various applications.
- Superlift: Known for their high-quality suspension lift kits.
Where to Buy 2018 Nissan Frontier Lift Kits
You can purchase 2018 Nissan Frontier lift kits from various sources, including:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Summit Racing, and ExtremeTerrain offer a wide selection of lift kits from various brands.
- Local Auto Parts Stores: Many auto parts stores carry lift kits or can order them for you.
- Off-Road Specialty Shops: These shops typically offer expert advice and installation services.
When purchasing a lift kit online, be sure to read reviews and check the seller's reputation. Compare prices from different vendors to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Conclusion
Installing a lift kit on your 2018 Nissan Frontier is a great way to enhance its appearance, performance, and off-road capabilities. By understanding the different types of lift kits available, considering your needs and budget, and carefully planning the installation, you can transform your Frontier into a capable and stylish off-road machine. Remember to research thoroughly, choose a reputable brand, and consider professional installation for the best results. Enjoy your lifted Frontier!
Always prioritize safety when working on your vehicle. If you are not comfortable performing the installation yourself, seek professional assistance.