Nissan Armada 3 Inch Lift Kit

So, you're considering a 3-inch lift kit for your Nissan Armada? Excellent choice! A lift can dramatically improve your Armada's off-road capabilities, give it a more aggressive look, and even allow you to run larger tires. But before you dive in, let's talk about the common issues that lead Armada owners to consider a lift, and how a 3-inch kit can be the solution (or part of it).

Common Armada Issues a Lift Kit Can Address

We see a few recurring problems from Armada owners that a lift kit can help resolve:

1. Limited Ground Clearance

The factory ground clearance on the Nissan Armada is adequate for everyday driving, but it can be a real hindrance off-road. Rocks, ruts, and uneven terrain can easily scrape the undercarriage, leading to potential damage. This is especially true if you enjoy overlanding or hitting moderate trails. A 3-inch lift provides a significant increase in ground clearance, allowing you to navigate these obstacles with much greater confidence and reducing the risk of costly repairs.

2. Small Tire Size

The stock tires on the Armada are designed for comfort and fuel efficiency, not necessarily for aggressive terrain. Many owners want to run larger, more capable off-road tires for better traction and a tougher appearance. Unfortunately, the factory wheel wells often limit the size of tires you can install without rubbing. A 3-inch lift creates the necessary space to accommodate larger tires, allowing you to upgrade to a more aggressive tire setup. This is arguably the most common reason people choose to lift their Armada.

3. Sagging Suspension

Over time, the factory suspension components on the Armada can start to sag, particularly in the rear, especially if you frequently tow or haul heavy loads. This sagging can negatively impact handling, ride quality, and even headlight aiming. A 3-inch lift kit, especially one with upgraded springs or spacers, can help restore the original ride height and even improve upon it, providing a more level and stable ride. Keep in mind that a lift kit primarily addresses ride height and might not completely solve suspension issues stemming from worn shocks or bushings.

4. Aesthetic Appeal

Let's be honest, a lifted Armada just looks plain awesome! The increased ride height and the ability to run larger tires give the vehicle a much more imposing and aggressive stance. For many owners, this is a major factor in their decision to install a lift kit. It's about personalizing your Armada and making it stand out from the crowd.

The 3-Inch Lift Kit Solution: What It Includes and What to Expect

A typical 3-inch lift kit for the Nissan Armada will usually include the following components:

Front Spacers or Coilovers: These are installed on top of the front struts to increase the ride height. Some kits use simple spacers, while others offer complete coilover replacements for improved performance and ride quality. Coilovers are generally more expensive but offer superior damping and adjustability.
Rear Spacers or Springs: Similar to the front, these components are used to lift the rear of the vehicle. Some kits include spacers that sit above the rear springs, while others provide replacement springs with a higher spring rate and increased ride height.
Extended Shocks (Sometimes): Depending on the kit, you may need to replace the factory shocks with longer ones to accommodate the increased suspension travel. This is especially important if you plan on doing any serious off-roading.
Sway Bar End Links (Sometimes): Longer sway bar end links may be necessary to maintain proper sway bar geometry and prevent binding.
Hardware and Instructions: The kit should include all the necessary hardware for installation, as well as detailed instructions.

What you can expect after installing a 3-inch lift kit:

Increased Ground Clearance: As mentioned earlier, this is the primary benefit. You'll have significantly more clearance to navigate obstacles off-road.
Larger Tire Fitment: You'll be able to run larger tires without rubbing, which will improve traction and give your Armada a more aggressive look. A common size upgrade with a 3-inch lift is 33-inch or even 35-inch tires, depending on the wheel offset.
Improved Appearance: Your Armada will have a more imposing and aggressive stance.
Potentially Stiffer Ride: Depending on the kit and the components used, the ride may be slightly stiffer than stock, especially if you choose a kit with upgraded springs.
Slightly Altered Handling: The higher center of gravity can slightly affect handling, particularly in corners.
Possible Need for Alignment: After installing a lift kit, it's essential to get a wheel alignment to ensure proper tire wear and handling.

Installation Considerations and Costs

Installing a 3-inch lift kit on a Nissan Armada is a moderately challenging task. It can be done at home with the right tools and mechanical skills, but it's also something that can be easily handled by a professional mechanic. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need and what to expect in terms of costs:

Tools Needed:

Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safely lifting and supporting the vehicle.
Socket Set and Wrenches: You'll need a variety of sizes to remove and install the various suspension components.
Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening fasteners to the correct specifications.
Spring Compressor (Potentially): Depending on the kit and whether you're replacing the coil springs, you may need a spring compressor. Use caution when using a spring compressor, as it can be dangerous if used improperly.
Hammer: A good hammer can be useful for dislodging stubborn components.
Pry Bar: Helpful for aligning components during installation.
Wheel Alignment Afterwards: This is mandatory.

Installation Costs:

DIY Installation: If you choose to install the lift kit yourself, the primary cost will be the price of the kit itself. 3-inch lift kits for the Nissan Armada typically range from $300 to $1500, depending on the quality of the components and the brand. Don't forget the cost of the wheel alignment, usually around $100-$150.
Professional Installation: If you opt for professional installation, you can expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $800 in labor, on top of the cost of the lift kit. The total cost can range from $700 to $2300 or more. The price depends heavily on shop rates and the complexity of the kit. Be sure to get quotes from multiple shops before making a decision.

Potential Problems and Solutions

While a 3-inch lift kit can solve many problems, it can also introduce a few new ones if not installed correctly or if certain precautions aren't taken:

1. Vibration Issues

Lifting your Armada can sometimes cause driveline vibrations, particularly at higher speeds. This is often due to changes in the driveshaft angles. The solution is often to install a carrier bearing drop bracket or a driveshaft spacer to correct the driveline angles. These are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

2. Ball Joint and UCA Wear

The increased suspension angles caused by the lift can put additional stress on the ball joints and upper control arms (UCAs). This can lead to premature wear and failure. Consider upgrading to aftermarket UCAs with improved ball joints to handle the increased stress, especially if you plan on doing a lot of off-roading.

3. Brake Line Stretch

In some cases, the factory brake lines may be stretched too tight after installing a lift kit. This can limit suspension travel and potentially damage the brake lines. Inspect your brake lines carefully after the lift. If they appear stretched, consider installing extended brake lines.

4. Alignment Issues

As mentioned earlier, getting a wheel alignment after installing a lift kit is crucial. However, in some cases, the factory alignment adjustments may not be sufficient to bring the vehicle back into spec. This is especially true with larger lifts. If you're having trouble getting your Armada aligned, you may need to install adjustable upper control arms or cam bolts.

Conclusion

A 3-inch lift kit can be a fantastic upgrade for your Nissan Armada, providing increased ground clearance, allowing for larger tires, and giving your vehicle a more aggressive look. However, it's important to understand the potential issues and solutions before you dive in. Do your research, choose a quality lift kit, and either install it carefully yourself or have it professionally installed. With the right preparation and execution, you can transform your Armada into a more capable and eye-catching machine. And remember, a lifted Armada is a happy Armada! Good luck, and happy trails!