10 Best Car Battery for Cold Weather 2020

Author:David Victor | Last updated: January 18, 2020

When it comes to your car, you want to do everything right. You know that how it runs depends on how well you treat it. That’s why you do your research when it comes to parts. Car batteries are important because they help your car start properly and in all kinds of weather conditions, including freezing temperatures. That’s why you want the best car battery.

The following are some best car battery reviews. They should help you choose the best car battery for winter and the best car battery for hot weather. There will be a range in pricing as well from a cheap car battery to an expensive car battery.

We also include the best portable car battery. Let’s get started on helping you choose from this list of options that will be the best car battery for cold weather that is conducive to your needs.

Top 10 Best Car Battery for Cold Weather Reveiw 2020

1. Odyssey PC680 Battery BUY ON AMAZON

This battery is backed by the Odyssey name. It has a warranty and is made for all types of weather conditions. People who purchased it were happy that it was pre charged.

Key features:

This battery has vibration resistance, which is key when riding in all types of terrains. It will last a long time with a 70% longer run time than conventional batteries. It recharges in 4 to 6 hours.

Specifications :

Brand: Odyssey, Model: PC680, Weight: 13.45 pounds

Pros

Comes with L terminal adapters
Known to work well with BMW’s

Cons

Clients complain that the quality is not as good as when the brand first started out
Not able to purchase on Amazon in the Catalina Islands

2. STANLEY FATMAX J7CS Power Station Jump Starter

This battery can jump-start an engine. It also has an air compressor for pumping the tires. It even has LED lights so that a person can work at nighttime. It needs to be charged every 30 days whether or not it is in use.

BUY ON AMAZON

Key features:

At the height of its power, it can give 700 amps. When it first starts, you can expect 350 amps right off the bat. You need an extension cord to charge this up.

Specifications :

Brand: Stanley Fatmax, Model: J7CS, Weight: 10.2 pounds

Pros

Good for emergencies that happen when you’re on the go. You don’t have to worry about your vehicle not starting again.
You can use your clamps to connect to the battery

Cons

Can be cumbersome to load into the car when you’re on the go
You have to make sure that you recharge this or it is useless
Need to be somewhere you can charge overnight for the battery to be of any use.

3. Schumacher SC1281 6/12V Fully Automatic Battery Charger

BUY ON AMAZON

This is a car battery charger that even comes equipped with clamps. It is one of the best car batteries for extreme cold weather. It even works for trucks and SUVs. It will charge standard, AGM, gel and deep-cycle batteries.

Key features:

It has a tester for the battery and alternator so that you can see much more clearly what is going on. It comes with UL safety certificates.

Specifications :

Brand: Schumacher, Model: SC1281, Weight: 12.65 pounds

Pros

For the price point, you are getting a lot. You don’t have to buy an expensive machine to be able to use this.
More precise diagnostics of what the problems are are available due to the features of this machine.

Cons

Some people have questioned the reliability as they have found that it doesn’t fully charge their vehicle
The quality might not be as high as something that you would pay a higher price for.

4. Optima Batteries 8014-045 D34/78 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery

BUY ON AMAZON

This battery is designed to start in extreme weather, making it one of the best batteries for extreme cold weather. It has 12 volts of power. It also reserves 120 minutes of power so that you know you’ll not be left stranded when you need your battery to work the most.

Key features:

This battery has 750 amps that will work in tough conditions thanks to the Polypropylene case material. It has a strong vibration resistance.

Specifications:

Brand: Optima Batteries, Model: 8014-045 D34/78, Weight: 43.5 pounds

Pros

This is a heavy-duty battery that is heavier in weight for a reason. It stores a lot of power and will reserve some for those tough conditions.
The lead plated spiral batteries are better quality than flat plated AGM batteries.

Cons

You have to keep this battery between 12 and 14 Volts or it won’t start larger vehicles.
It is not fail-proof so keep in mind that even though it is more expensive, this does not guarantee that you will not have to take advantage of the warranty.

5. Optima Batteries 8003-151 34R RedTop Starting Battery

BUY ON AMAZON

This 12-volt battery offers 800 amps of power. It has the vibration resistance feature that most of these cold-weather batteries need. It reserves 100 minutes of battery life at all times for those moments you need your battery to come through the most.

Key features:

This battery comes with a 36-month warranty. This means that you will get a new battery in this time period if there is a defect in either the parts or the craftsmanship. It has spiral cell technology with lead plating. This is superior to the flat, AGM battery model.

Specifications:

Brand: Optima Batteries, Model: 8003-151 34R, Weight: 37.9 pounds

Pros

Most customers who have purchased this battery on Amazon give it a five-star rating.
Some people who have had this battery swear by its quality and will continuously purchase this brand and model.

Cons

People have complained that these batteries are not all alike and the manufacturing standards can vary based on the item itself.

It doesn’t always last as long as people expect in some cases.

6. VMAXTANKS VMAX V35-857 12 Volt 35AH AGM Battery

CHECK DETAILS ON AMAZON

This is an actual car battery that is encased in lead-tin alloys. It is a specific model in which the manufacturer even recommends a certain charger.

Key features:

One of the key features of this battery is that it doesn’t require any maintenance. It is heavy duty and designed to be easy to take care of.

Specifications :

Brand: VMAXTANKS VMAX, Model: V35-857 12 Volt 35AH AGM, Weight: 25 pounds

Pros

This relatively lightweight battery is designed to be maintenance-free.
Many people say that it’s just a battery that keeps on performing.

Cons

Some people have had trouble with the recharging of this battery.
Needs at least 3 amps to recharge or it won’t work again.

7. ACDelco 48AGM Professional AGM Automotive BCI Group 48 Battery

CHECK DETAILS ON AMAZON

This battery has a unique silver calcium alloy. The materials are said to enhance the overall life of the battery. The envelope separator prevents the acid from leaking and improves the movement in the cell.

Key features:

This battery has a vent cap that keeps that battery from leaking. The battery’s unique design contributes to its long life cycle.

Specifications:

Brand: ACDelco, Model: 48AGM, Weight: 45.5 pounds

Pros

If you take care of the battery right, it will last you a while.
Good for the highs and lows that lead batteries cannot withstand without the acid flooding.

Cons

Some people find that it does not hold a charge well.
The manufacturer is usually good at fulfilling the warranty if the battery breaks down.

8. Mighty Max Battery ML35-12 – 12V 35AH U1 Deep Cycle AGM Solar Battery

CHECK DETAILS ON AMAZON

When it comes to this battery, it is well sealed and doesn’t require any babying. It is bare basics with the battery and the screws included.

Key features:

This lead battery is spill and leak proofed. You will be able to recharge it as needed.

Specifications:

Brand: Mighty Max Battery, Model: ML35-12 – 12V 35AH, Weight: 24 pounds

Pros

You can power a lot with this battery. People take it on camping trips as a source of power.
There are three batteries and people don’t complain about how much they get from them.

Cons

Some people find they have to utilize the warranty.
You might have to wait a while for the warranty to be fulfilled or get a bit of a run around if you do happen to encounter problems.

9. ACDelco ACDB24R Advantage AGM Automotive BCI Group 51 Battery

CHECK DETAILS ON AMAZON

This battery is a maintenance-free battery that will not leak. Due to gas recombinant tech, the battery will work three times as long as a regular battery.

Key features:

It is designed for storing if you don’t need to use it during certain seasons such as summer. The oxide plates are high quality.

Specifications:

Brand: ACDelco, Model: ACDB24R, Weight: 14.3 KG

Pros

There are YouTube videos out there that can help with the installation
Customers who purchase this model tend to be repeat buyers

Cons

It may not fit certain models due to the dimensions

10. DieHard 38188 Group 34R Lead Acid Battery

CHECK DETAILS ON AMAZON

This battery has maximum vibration protection. It is also spill-proof.

Key features:

It works two times longer than the conventional lead batteries. The positive and negative plates prevent electrical shortages.

Specifications:

Brand: DieHard, Model: 38188, Weight: 20.2 KG

Pros

It has great specs and customers are happy with their selection

Cons

Some people have reported that they have received defective batteries.

FAQ about car battery

What is the best car battery for cold weather?

Ans. When it comes to cold weather, you’ll want to go with the Odyssey PC680 Battery. This battery was even better when it first started out. Most people don’t complain about a lot when it comes to this battery and it is top rated.

What is the best car battery for extreme cold weather?

Ans. Extreme cold weather conditions necessitate that you take certain precautions. Ultimately, the Optima Batteries 8014-045 D34/78 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery is the one you will want to purchase for all types of weather. It reserves power for those times that you just need that extra boost. Those that hate getting out their battery boosters in freezing weather conditions should go with this model.

What is the best car battery brand for cold weather?

Ans. There are a lot of good brands out there for cold weather. The best one is still Odyssey. It’s just backed by an all-around great reputation. People who buy this brand usually become loyal customers.

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How to Clean Chrome Rims That Are Pitted

Author:David Victor | Last updated: November 11, 2019

Cleanliness can make a huge difference in anything whether it is your car, your house, or yourself. It is very important to maintain your car in good condition. Thus, cleaning the car tires and rims is extremely important. A common question that might come to your mind as a car owner is, how how to clean chrome rims that are pitted. You might be looking for at-home remedies that can clean chrome rims or you would be interested in finding out the ways through which you can get rid of the unwanted rust on your chrome rims.

If you are searching for this kind of information, you are in the right place! Read on for more information.

how to clean chrome rims that are pitted

Nobody likes the chrome rims that are pitted. If you find yourself in such a position, it is important to take action as soon as possible. However, you would need a little help.

Things You’ll Need:

000 fine steel wool
Warm Water
Dish Soap
Cotton Cloth

When chrome rims are exposed to air, they would pit easily. The best way to clean pitting from the chrome rim is to sand it. However, there could be a need for repair if the damage is much more. You have to maintain the tires and rims by keeping a close eye on it. Consider the following steps:

Use warm water and dish soap. Wash the rim with it. By using a cotton cloth, dry it. Use 0000 fine steel wool. Rub in a circular motion to remove the pitting. Before using it, you have to make sure it is suitable. You can use your fingernail to check the pitting.
Use a lacquer and spray a light coat. Pat dry after using 0000 fine steel wool. You can use the second coat of lacquer. Make sure you dry the item. This should be in an area that is well ventilated.

how to clean chrome rims with vinegar

Vinegar is not only used as a food item but it has a variety of other uses as well. You can get rid of tough stains with the help of vinegar. Try the following to clean the chrome rims using the help of vinegar.

Things You’ll Need:

Vinegar
Water
Soft Sponge

Thus, in order to clean the chrome rims using the vinegar, consider the following steps:

Mix one part of vinegar with one part of water. The amount of water you use would depend on the amount required for the cleaning purpose. In any case, try to keep the ratio the same. Don’t dilute this solution. Make sure there are equal parts of both water and vinegar to make an effective solution.
You can use a soft sponge to clean the chrome rims using this solution. Don’t try to use any brush or hard material as it is likely to leave scratches on the surface.

how to clean chrome rims with at-home remedies

The home remedies are not just for making your skin shiny and bright. The home remedies are not confined to the items you prepare at home to lose some weight. You can use the at-home remedies to clean the chrome rims.

Things You’ll Need:

Baking Soda
Water

Thus, consider the following steps to clean the chrome-rims using the home remedies:

You can mix water and baking soda in such a way that a paste is formed. You can use this paste to clean the chrome rims. This is an easy technique that would assist you in cleaning the chrome rims.

There are many other home remedies that you can try. For example:

Aluminum Foil Method

Things You’ll Need:

Aluminum Foil
Water

Using this particular aluminum foil method, you would be able to clean your chrome rims in the following ways:

Take a piece of aluminum foil from your kitchen’s cupboard.
Dip this particular piece of aluminum foil in water. Now start rubbing it on the chrome rims, it would assist in getting rid of the unwanted rust. Try it and see the results!

how to clean chrome rims with steel wool

As discussed previously using 0000 fine steel wool you would be able to clean chrome rims. The rest of the method is mentioned previously. It is wise to follow the relevant instructions to clean the chrome rims. There are also tons of tutorials available online that can provide a step by step guide on how to use a certain product. Make sure you are following the instructions carefully. If you find it tough to maintain the chrome rims and clean them on a regular basis, it would be a good idea to let an expert do this kind of job for you!

how to clean chrome rims brake dust

You have to clean the chrome rims when there is an issue. Make sure you are following the appropriate method.

Things You’ll Need:

Soap
Water
Dish Detergent
Hose
Small Hand Brush

Consider the following steps to clean chrome rims brake dust:

In order to clean chrome rims brake dust mix water with soap. Add dish detergent to this mixture. Now, quickly stir this mixture.
Using a hose, gently clean your tires. This would remove extra dirt and grease that is accumulated on the tires. By using the hose, you are doing your wheels a favor as there would be no need to go through the hassle of scratching it harshly for the cleanup.
You can turn the hose to the jet setting if you are looking for some extra power to clean the chrome rims.
You can use a small hand brush and dip it in the mixture you just made. Make sure you are scrubbing the brush correctly so that it would clean the chrome rims thoroughly. Use a good brush for this purpose so that you would be able to clean the chrome rims thoroughly.
After cleaning it thoroughly, rinse it well and pat dry.
You can repeat the scrubbing process as per your requirement or until you are satisfied with the end result

how to clean oxidized chrome rims

Oxidation is quite common with the chrome rims. If the chrome on your rims is of great quality it would avoid the oxidation. However, you don’t like the rust and want to get rid of it as soon as possible. In order to get the oxidation off from the chrome rims, read on.

Things You’ll Need:

Soap
Water
Steel Wood Pad
Toothbrush

Thus, consider the following steps to clean oxidized chrome rims:

Just like always, make a mixture of soap and water. This mixture appears quite useful since you can use it in a variety of ways. Clean the chrome rims with this mixture. It would assist in getting rid of the dirt and grease if there is any on the chrome rims.
Using a steel wood pad, you can remove the rust on the wheel. Use water along with it.
You might be wondering what to do with that used toothbrush in your washroom that had been sitting there for too long. Now is the time to put it to good use. Dip it in the mixture and clean the oxidized areas of the chrome rims. Make sure you are thoroughly cleaning it.
In the end, use some clean water to get rid of the mess.

how to restore chrome rims

Your chrome rims might lose their charm and you would need a little elbow grease to restore them. You can blame the rock salt for this damage. It would be a good idea if you keep a close eye on your chrome rims. It would be wise to clean the chrome rims weekly to keep them looking neat and shiny for a long time.

Things You’ll Need:

Automobile Cleaner
Water
Sponge
Toothbrush
Cleaning Cloth
Chrome Polish
Spray Wax (automotive)

Thus, consider the following steps to restore chrome rims:

You can buy any automobile cleaner from the market and mix at least four glass of water to it. The water should be warm.
Use a clean sponge and clean the chrome rims. Using a toothbrush you can scrub the chrome rims. Scrub softly and in a circular motion.
In order to avoid the spotting on the chrome rims, rinse it immediately. AT this point you can use cold water.
Use a cleaning cloth and try to dry the chrome rims. You can apply chrome polish to the chrome rims and for this purpose, you can use another cleaning cloth. Make sure the cloth is free from lint. Apply the chrome polish as per your requirement so that you get the desired shine and result.
In the end, you can use the automotive spray wax. The purpose of using the spray wax is to protect the chrome rims from the damage.

how to clean corrosion off chrome rims

You can use high-quality chrome rims for your precious vehicles. However, the truth is that you cannot avoid corrosion. They would rust at one point or the other. Thus, you should take appropriate measures when this happens.

Things You’ll Need

Soap
Water
Scrub Brush
Wire Brush
Corrosion Remover
Hard wax

Thus, consider the following steps to clean corrosion off chrome rims:

Initially, like always you have to make a mixture of soap and water. Use this particular mixture to clean the chrome rims as this would assist in getting rid of the dust and grease.
Dry the wheels and see for the signs of corrosion on the chrome rims. Try to get rid of the unwanted corrosion using the scrub brush.
In order to get rid of the rust deposits that are quite large, you can use a wire brush. It would assist in cleaning the remaining rush on your chrome rims. However, don’t try to scratch the chrome as it would make the matter worse. All you have to do is try your best.
There would be many products available in the market that can assist in getting rid of the corrosion. For example, you can buy a good corrosion remover for this purpose. Make sure you read the reviews and comments from current and previous buyers before making a final purchase decision. You have to follow the instructions on the package.
In the end, you can apply hard wax to protect the chrome rims.

Important Points To Keep In Mind

When trying to keep the chrome rims clean and tidy, keep the following points in mind:

Make sure you are taking the safety measures when using the products designed specifically for cleaning the chrome rims.
Make sure you are wearing hand gloves when cleaning the chrome rims to protect your hands.
It would be wise to wear a mask especially if you are allergic to some chemicals that would be used in the process of cleaning.
Make sure you are following the instructions correctly.
You can read reviews and comments on different products before making a final purchase decision.
Keep a close eye on the chrome rims to avoid damage.
Avoid contacting any chemical with eyes. It would be wise to wear goggles when cleaning the chrome rims.

Final Words

There are various ways to keep the chrome rims in good condition. It is important that you are aware of the various ways through which you can maintain the beauty of your vehicle. We are living in an era of modernization and information technology. In such a busy world, it is important to take some time off to take care of the chrome rims. However, if because of any reason you are not able to devote some time to clean the chrome rims, it would be wise to take the job to a professional and let them do the cleaning for you!

How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Headlight Cover?

Author:David Victor | Last updated: October 12, 2019

Thinking of safeguarding your car headlights?

With the best headlight cover, you can dress up your car, SUV or truck headlights and protect from weather elements. The right headlight cover also protects the headlight lens from stone chips, minor abrasions, and bug splatters.

As an aftermarket modification, it’s made from different materials. They include poly carbonate, metal, and self-adhesive vinyl. These materials help to reduce the light transmitted or tint the color of your headlights.

Want to know how to install the headlight cover and costs?

In this post, we cover the replacement of a headlight cover and costs involved.

What Is the Cost of Replacing Headlight Covers?

Headlights are very important to your safety when driving on the road. As such, it’s logical to protect them. One of the best components that can protect your car headlights is headlight covers.

Driving without headlight covers leaves your headlights unprotected. As such, you risk denting the housing and cracking the lens. How? As you drive, the car wheels kick up gravel. Even a minor impact can crack the car lens and take a toll on your headlights.

Headlight covers go all the way back to World War II. At the time, military and civil authorities enforced blackouts as well as brownouts. Simply put, they restricted the use of car headlights when transporting military supplies.

The reason for this policy was to reduce detection by enemy crafts. Brownouts and blackouts were done by limiting light emissions using masks and hoods. Today, headlight covers are still in use in military and civilian vehicles.

They reduce transmitted light and protect the headlights. Even racing cars have protective headlight cover film to reduce abrasion in the harsh and sandy environment. Want to know how much it costs to replace a headlight cover?

The cost to replace the headlight cover varies with the car’s make and model. Also, it depends on whether you will be installing the headlight cover or have it done by a professional mechanic.

Here is what you need to know. Replacing the headlight cover yourself is affordable. Why? You will not incur the cost of labor. Problem is, if you lack the skills, you may end up damaging the housing or the car headlight lens.

Having a professional mechanic replace the headlight cover will be at a considerably higher cost. Based on research, the average cost for replacing a car headlight assembly ranges between $250 to $700. For the headlight cover, the cost is typically between $75 and $200.

Want to save money on a headlight cover? Start by comparing prices for headlight covers online. Several online retailers offer original manufacturer headlight covers. Also, they sell at a much cheaper price compared to your local dealer.

Another way to save money is to learn how to replace the headlight cover yourself. Want to know how to replace a headlight cover.

Here is a step by step guide for replacing your headlight cover.

Replacing Your Car Headlight Cover – Step by Step Guide

Headlight covers add a finished look and sleekness to the front end of your car. Not only will you be the envy of other drivers but you will protect the car lens from abrasion and weather elements.

Here is how to replace your car headlight cover.

Shop for the Best Headlight Cover

Search for Online Retailers

In 2019, more than 76% of US adults shop online. Of these, 25% who shop online did so once a month while 16% shopped online once a week. To find an online retailer who stocks original headlight covers, use your favorite search engine.

Try using a keyword such as “headlight cover” and browse through the results.

Compare Headlight Covers

From the search results, you can open five or 10 of the top online retailers in different tabs on your browser. By doing so, you can compare product features and prices across different retailers. This can save you a lot of money.

Once you find the best headlight cover, buy and have them shipped to your home. Remember, buy the right headlight covers for your car make and model.

Replace the Headlight Cover

Unmount the Old Covers

Your new headlight covers are a good replacement for your broken or cracked covers. Before installing the new headlight covers, unmount the old covers. For a clean revitalized look, use a screwdriver. Remember, do not rush the process as you may end up scratching the headlight lens.

Snap-On the New Headlight Covers

Now that you have the shipped headlight covers, it’s time to replace the old covers. On a typical car, snap on or hook and loop the headlight covers. Start with the right headlight followed by the left headlight.

The whole process takes a few minutes to complete.

Use Automotive-Grade Tape

As you shop for automotive-grade tape, you will come across different grades. Some tapes join electrical connections while others mask cars before painting. The PVC electrical tapes are pressure-sensitive but they are not all created equally. To use automotive grade tape for attachment, cut to size and press into place. No holes, no mess.

Using the attachment tape provides a strong and secure bond. In fact, it will hold strong in any weather or road condition.

We recommend 3M super strong automotive attachment tape for superior results.

Professional Replacement

Drive to the Nearest Mechanic

To find a trusted mechanic near you, use your favorite search engine. For example, if you live in New York, you can use the following keyword “mechanic New York” or “professional New York mechanic.”

Professionals specialize in the service and repair of cars. They are highly skilled and experienced plus they have the right equipment and parts for different repairs. Want to avoid crooked “mechanics” and find a trustworthy and dependable mechanic?

Here is how to find a great mechanic. Seek recommendations from family and friends. Read online reviews, both good and bad. Check the Better Business Bureau to find out the mechanic’s ratings.

Look for a mechanic from the AAA approved auto repair network. Make sure the mechanic has certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Once you have 5 to 10 candidates, make a quick call to find out if they offer free estimates.

A trustworthy and dependable mechanic will have no problem giving you a written estimate.

Headlight Cover Replacement

There are headlight covers that require professional installation. If the manufacturer recommends professional attachment, do not attempt DIY. Any damage done to the cover may void the warranty.

Wrapping Up

Replacing headlight covers is very easy. It takes no more than 20 minutes. Once you replace the old covers, your car headlights will experience premium protection. Not only will the cover protect from weather elements but gravel and rocks too.

With your headlights in good condition, you can drive safely at night, in foggy weather and during heavy rainfall. Your car will be visible to oncoming cars and on top of that, the police will not stop your car and penalize you.

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Truth about Leveling Kits – 10 Secret Things You Didn’t Know

Author:David Victor | Last updated: September 29, 2019

Buying new pieces for our vehicle is often satisfying, as it allows us to customize the car to make them look stylish.

If you have either a truck, SUV, or a jeep, you’ve probably heard about the leveling kits. Oh yes, those marvelous parts that turn our ride into an intimidating vehicle to show off across the streets. But the importance of the leveling kits should not be dismissed.

Truth about Leveling Kits – 10 Secret Things You Didn’t Know

Yes, they’re incredible for our vehicle’s look, but they are more than that. Some of the benefits provided by these sets of parts are that we, as drivers, receive more ground clearance, making our journey through different terrains safer.

That’s why today we’ll be discussing these kits, and what they can do for you. By the end, not only will you be proud of how good your car looks, but you’ll also see why they’re such an essential part if you have any of the vehicles listed above.

Here are ten things you should know about the leveling kits.

Ten Things You Should Know Better about Leveling Kits

Leveling kits are quite popular car parts that every vehicle owner should know about. That’s why, in the following article, we’ll go through every bit of information that will help us understand their purpose a little bit better. Hopefully, that will help us make the right decision during the purchase.

1. Proper Definition of a Leveling Kit

If you’re here, you probably know what a leveling kit is. But some people aren’t aware of what these tools can do. To clear any doubt, we’ll go through the basic definition. The most experienced drivers can skip this section and proceed to the next part of the article.

When you buy vehicles like trucks or SUVs, you may have noticed that they don’t have a perfect balance from the rear to the front. It is a fabric design that could be troubling during some circumstances.

A leveling kit is a set of tools that will help you level your truck with the rear suspension. Once installed, cars like trucks or SUVs will have that perfect balance throughout their structure, from the back to the front. And, once you have that, driving on tough terrain is quite easy.

But, before rushing to the car shop, there’s one more thing you need to sort out: is the leveling kit what you need exactly?

To clear any doubt, we’ll discuss the different types of leveling kits that you can purchase. Keep in mind that some may work better than others, depending on your purpose.

2. There Are Three Types of Lift Kits

With the number of vehicle models out there, it is only logical that one lifting method wouldn’t be enough for all of them. That’s why we don’t only get one, but three different types of lifting kits to match most of the cars out there.

Those are the leveling, suspension, and body lifting kits. Why do we say it covers most of the cars, but not all? Because some vehicles require their exclusive tools. Such is the case of the Chevy Silverado, which demands a unique type of kit that measures its components accurately.

In cases like the Chevy Silverado, it is better to check out with the manufacturer or a professional to confirm what your necessities precisely. If you’re wondering, the most noticeable difference between these three kits is the installation procedure. Let’s talk in-depth about the leveling kits.

Leveling Kits – Lifting between 1 to 2 Inches High

The leveling kits are everyone’s go-to choice to lift their rides between 1 to two inches, as the title suggests, and they work mostly for the front wheels. Their quality of performance is undeniable; when you need to increase your tire’s diameter, you will hardly find anything better.

Other purposes for these kits are improving both the towing, as well as the vehicle’s load capacity. The tools that fall under this category feature coil spring spacers.

But that’s not all of them, as some other leveling kits offer bar keys with forged tension. The first one, with the spacers, are the suitable choice if your vehicle uses a coil assembly. On the other hand, using the bar keys type is better for cars with a suspension system.

To sum up: the leveling kits level up the front wheels with the rear, allowing the vehicle to withstand heavier loads.

Suspension Kits

These kits work by lifting the entire suspension system of your vehicle, not only the front. When using this tool, you will have the opportunity to install larger tires on your truck, which allows drivers to go through complicated surfaces safely.

Also, since the suspension kit adds extra height to your vehicle, it is far more resistant against shocks, providing a smooth drive through many areas.

How many inches does the suspension kit lift? It may vary, but the standard is between four to six inches.

Body Lifting Kits

And, finally, there are body lifting kits. These tools are a set of blocks to help you raise the vehicle’s body from the frame. What does that mean? Well, when you lift the truck’s body, the frame stays in its place, maintaining ground clearance.

Each one of the lifting kits is suitable for specific circumstances. Make sure what you need is a leveling kit before making your call. Otherwise, you may end up wasting more money than needed.

3. Leveling Kits are An Investment Worth Making

Not everyone needs a leveling kit; more so, it is understandable that many people consider it is nothing but a method to make our vehicles look fancier. But, that’s far from the truth.

First, we have to admit the leveling kit does make the vehicles look better overall. By installing it, car owners are capable of adding larger tires to their ride, allowing our trucks to look intimidating.

If what you want is to show off, these additions are more than capable of helping you achieve that. But there’s another reason why you should invest in the leveling kit, and that’s safety measures.

You see, adding a leveling kit to your truck provides proper ground clearance. No longer will you have to worry about not being capable of driving through certain terrains without crashing the front side.

A leveling kit makes the frame and body of the vehicle sit in perfect balance from the back to the front. Driving through dirt or mudded areas shouldn’t be an issue anymore.

Moreover, the leveling kits are not that expensive. There are many of them available at different price ranges. Make sure to consider all of the options to find the one that meets your budget and matches your vehicle.

4. Materials Used to Produce the Leveling Kits

Picking just one from a sea of options could be challenging. But, you’ll know how to differentiate good from low-quality leveling kits if you take into consideration the materials used to produce them. One of the materials is billet aluminum. You could consider forged steel as well.

There’s one brand that has been putting outstanding leveling kits out there for the past years, and that’s ReadyLift. Their manufacturing process takes the best out of forged torsion keys and turns them into something else, ready for us to use in our trucks.

Forging torsion keys is essential if you want the best performance out of your vehicle. Not only does it allow a smoother rotation for the tension bar, but it works increasing the car’s torsional energy, as well as any force exerted for the keys.

If someone tries to sell you a generic leveling kit assuring it will fit your car, don’t fall for it. Every vehicle needs a specific type of leveling kit.

Also, if the manufacturer uses cast materials to produce the leveling kits, be aware that it will break eventually. It is just a matter of time. Furthermore, it is a poor-quality design that could put you in danger out there on the roads.

Cast materials are often weaker when compared to other pieces like OEM; their warranties don’t cover for most mishaps, and they come from the United States. We’re not saying that’s always a bad thing, but in this case, it is.

5. Choosing the Right Leveling Kit

With many options available, it could be complicated to sort out through all of the options to find the right one for our vehicle. However, there’s some information that may help you out. We’ll discuss it next in another segment in this article.

Choosing by Model

Leveling kits are not for every car. They are tools that suit specific types of vehicles that could use those extra inches of height, like SUVs and trucks. If you have any of these, then there’s a kit for you. Of course, trucks and SUVs aren’t quite specific either.

This is why you need to consult with both the car manufacturer or the kit producer to find out if they are both compatible. You can do some tests by yourself too. Do you need a suspension system?

Start by measuring the dimensions of your vehicle to determine the distance between the front and rear. Another measurement you could make is how far away is the center of the wheel from the top. After getting the dimensions, compare the statistics gathered.

The result is what technicians call the rake, which is the difference between the front and the back in height.

Sounds complicated? It isn’t. Let’s do a quick test here: after measuring, the length at the back could be 20 inches, while the front shows 18 inches. That means your rake is two inches, and that’s how much you need to level the front.

Choosing by Application on the Vehicle

Another method to pick the perfect leveling kit is knowing what to expect from it. If you’re all about finding the right level stance, then add a couple more inches on the front, and there’s that. You now have a perfect leveled up car with a smooth performance.

But what if I tell you that some drivers prefer to have a small amount of rake on their vehicles? They want it that way because it provides ground clearance without losing the space to install larger wheels.

If that’s what you want, use the leveling kits to add a couple of inches more on either side, back or front. Another benefit of doing this is that you’ll receive a higher towing capacity.

It all sums up to what you want to do with the leveling kit. Choosing the right one is decisive to get the expected results, so take as much time as needed looking at the different offers.

6. Correctly Installing the Leveling Kit

Once you get your hands on the leveling kits, it may be tempting to give it a try yourself. After all, they look like simple pieces that wouldn’t take too much time or effort to install, right? That’s partially true.

If you’re confident about installing the leveling kit after acquiring a lot of knowledge through YouTube videos, you’ll most likely succeed at doing it.

However, the tricky part may come after detaching everything. It is pretty easy to make a mistake assembling the pieces back, which could lead to an accident eventually.

Unless you have previous experience doing this procedure, it is better to consult and get assistance from a professional mechanic.

They will know how to disassemble and assemble back the pieces without any issue. Plus, they may shed some information you could use in case the leveling kit doesn’t turn out to be what you wanted.

Sure, paying a professional may be a little expensive, but consider all the money you’d have to spend if something goes wrong because we made a silly mistake. We should never underestimate the importance of having complete certainty and security while driving your vehicles.

7. Installing without Removing the Struts

In the past, it used to be very frustrating to install a leveling kit successfully. You would often find yourself having to disassemble everything, including the struts, only to assemble everything back after the installation.

Fortunately, that’s not an issue anymore. A lot of leveling kits will allow you to do the installation procedure without disassembling the struts of your truck. This is more convenient as it reduces the time and effort you’d have to put otherwise.

A clear example of that is the Rough Country brand, which produces high-quality leveling kits that are quite intuitive and user-friendly. Everyone gets to use their parts and install them properly without the hassle of disassembling your vehicle.

8. Alignment Issues after Installing

Installing a leveling kit has many benefits as we covered before, but some issues may take place before everything starts to run smoothly; a stiffy steering is one of them. If this happens, there’s no need to panic. It is a regular problem that you can solve quickly.

These issues take place regularly, and to solve it, it doesn’t take more than getting our vehicles to an alignment shop to get it fixed. There, the technician should have the proper tools to make your car function as it should. After that, you’ll be ready to enjoy your perfectly leveled truck.

While you’re there, make sure to let the technician know if there have been other issues after installing the leveling kit.

Perhaps you’re dealing with a minor problem that doesn’t seem that important because it doesn’t intervene with the car’s performance, but that same issue could become a risk along the way.

9. How Often Do You Need to Check the Leveling Kits?

It is easy to forget everything else when you’re out there on the road driving your vehicle, but it is always necessary to keep track of the car and the leveling kit’s performance to ensure there are no accidents.

Keep in mind that these parts are withstanding a ton of energy every day, which may result in loose bolts or nuts when you least expect it.

Ultimately, checking the nuts/bolts depends entirely on the vehicle owner’s preference, but it is better to check their tightness after driving beyond the first five hundred miles. It allows you to confirm everything is going as smoothly as expected, and make changes if necessary.

Then, you may want to check once again every thousand miles. It may sound excessive, but knowing that our vehicle is working as it should is one less concern in our minds.

10. What Other Things Should You Check?

A leveling kit shouldn’t take all of your attention when you’re inspecting the vehicle. Other features you want to check are the wheel alignment, the steering system, and the car’s suspension system.

The steering system is responsible for direction control when the vehicle is moving. After installing the leveling kit, inspect this feature to ensure it works smoothly. If there’s anything you don’t want to have on the road is an uncontrollable machine.

In case you’re an experienced driver with technical knowledge, you can inspect every one of these systems by yourself every three thousand miles. However, if you aren’t sure how these things work, it will be better to consult with a technician for a professional overview of your vehicle’s performance.

Another element you want to check regularly is the drive line system, responsible for pushing the vehicle either forward or backward.

This feature locates in the middle of the transmission and the vehicle’s drive axles, transmitting energy strong enough to turn the car’s wheels in either direction.

Remember, safety is always first. I know the safety measures have been rather repetitive throughout this article, but as long as it keeps drivers from making silly mistakes that could lead to an accident, it is all worth it.

Frequently Ask Questions

Here we have some of the most commonly asked queries;

1. What is the purpose of a leveling kit?

Leveling kits will help you level the front side of your vehicle with the rear. By doing this, you’ll have more ground clearance, allowing you to drive safely over complicated terrains.

2. What types of leveling kits are out there?

There are three: strut extension, torsion key, and coil spring spacers. Each one of them works better for specific purposes, so be sure to pick the right one. Also, do not mistake the leveling kit types with the lifting kit types, as they could be very different.

3. What are the materials used to create leveling kits?

You will encounter different brands with their exclusive manufacturing process, but you should always aim for billet aluminum materials if you want the best performance. Forged steel works well too.

4. Are leveling kits safe?

Yes, they are, as long as you install them correctly. If you’re not confident or lack experience in the field, contact a professional technician to give you a helping hand. It could be dangerous if installed incorrectly.

5. What vehicles are compatible with leveling kits?

The leveling kits are suitable for different vehicles such as SUVs, jeeps, and trucks. Check with the manufacturer before investing.

Final Words

Having an unleveled truck may not seem like a big deal, up until you reach certain terrains where the front side crashes continuously against rocks and other things. It is at this moment that the leveling kit comes into play, as it allows you to sort out those problems quickly.

Choosing between the three depends on what you want to do and what kind of vehicle you have. It may seem tedious, but picking the right one makes a lot of difference.

After installing the leveling kits, you’ll quickly notice why many people like it so much. It makes everything better about your truck. An improved look and better performance are a couple of those benefits brought by the leveling kit.

Top 5 Rough Country Lift Kit Reviews & Buying Guide

Author:David Victor | Last updated: September 5, 2019

So, you’ve finally purchased the truck of your dreams? Congratulations! We know all about how exciting it can be to enjoy your new vehicle and then ponder all of the great ways you can customize it. There is so much you can do with trucks. The choices are practically limitless. If you’re an avid off-roader though, then you know you’re going to need to get yourself a proper lift kit. [Read more…] about Top 5 Rough Country Lift Kit Reviews & Buying Guide