So, you're thinking about giving your Mitsubishi Lancer a lift? Awesome! A lift kit can seriously transform your ride, not just in terms of looks, but also in capability. Let's dive into everything you need to know about Mitsubishi Lancer lift kits.

What is a Mitsubishi Lancer Lift Kit?

First off, what exactly is a lift kit? Simply put, it's a set of components designed to raise the body or suspension of your vehicle. For a Mitsubishi Lancer, this means you'll be increasing the distance between the chassis and the ground. Now, why would you want to do that? Well, there are several reasons.

Improved Ground Clearance: This is the most obvious benefit. With a lift kit, you'll be able to clear obstacles that would otherwise scrape the bottom of your car. Think speed bumps, uneven terrain, and those pesky parking curbs.

Larger Tires: A lift kit creates more space in your wheel wells, allowing you to install larger, more aggressive tires. This not only enhances the appearance of your Lancer but also improves its off-road capabilities (to some extent, of course – it's still a Lancer!).

Aggressive Look: Let's be honest, a lifted Lancer just looks cool. It gives your car a unique, rugged appearance that sets it apart from the crowd. It's a statement that says, "I'm not your average compact sedan."

Enhanced Visibility: By raising your seating position, a lift kit can provide a better view of the road ahead. This can be especially helpful in traffic or when navigating unfamiliar areas.

But wait, there's more! When you increase the ground clearance, you're also improving the approach, departure, and breakover angles of your Lancer. These angles are crucial for off-roading, as they determine how easily your vehicle can clear obstacles without getting stuck. While a Lancer might not be your first choice for rock crawling, a lift kit can certainly make it more capable on dirt roads and mild trails.

Furthermore, installing a lift kit can actually improve your Lancer's ride quality in some situations. By increasing the suspension travel, the kit can better absorb bumps and vibrations, resulting in a smoother, more comfortable ride. Of course, this depends on the specific kit and the quality of its components.

Finally, a lift kit can also be a great way to personalize your Lancer and make it truly your own. With so many different kits and options available, you can create a unique look that reflects your individual style and preferences. Whether you're going for a subtle lift or a more dramatic transformation, a lift kit can help you achieve your vision.

Types of Lift Kits for Mitsubishi Lancer

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of a lift kit. But which one should you choose? There are a few different types of lift kits available for the Mitsubishi Lancer, each with its own pros and cons.

Spacer Lift Kits

These are the most affordable and easiest to install. Spacer kits typically consist of polyurethane or aluminum spacers that are placed on top of the strut assemblies. They effectively raise the ride height without altering the suspension geometry.

Pros:

• Affordable: Spacer kits are generally the least expensive option.
• Easy Installation: They can usually be installed with basic tools and mechanical knowledge.
• No Change in Ride Quality: Spacer kits don't typically affect the ride quality of your Lancer.

Cons:

• Limited Lift Height: Spacer kits usually only provide a modest lift of 1-2 inches.
• Potential for Suspension Damage: Over-extending the suspension with a spacer kit can lead to premature wear and tear on other components.
• Not Ideal for Off-Roading: Spacer kits don't improve the suspension's articulation or damping, making them less suitable for serious off-road use.

Suspension Lift Kits

These are more comprehensive and involve replacing multiple suspension components, such as struts, springs, and sometimes even control arms. Suspension lift kits offer a greater lift height and improved off-road performance.

Pros:

• Greater Lift Height: Suspension lift kits can provide a more substantial lift, typically ranging from 2-4 inches.
• Improved Off-Road Performance: They often include upgraded components that improve the suspension's articulation and damping.
• Enhanced Ride Quality: Some suspension lift kits can actually improve the ride quality of your Lancer.

Cons:

• More Expensive: Suspension lift kits are significantly more expensive than spacer kits.
• More Complex Installation: They require more extensive mechanical knowledge and specialized tools to install.
• Potential for Alignment Issues: Installing a suspension lift kit can alter the vehicle's alignment, requiring professional adjustment.

Body Lift Kits

These kits raise the body of the vehicle relative to the frame, without altering the suspension. Body lift kits are less common for cars like the Lancer, as they're primarily used on trucks and SUVs.

Pros:

• High Lift Height: Body lift kits can provide a significant lift height without affecting the suspension geometry.
• Relatively Affordable: They're typically less expensive than suspension lift kits.

Cons:

• Aesthetic Concerns: Body lift kits can create a noticeable gap between the body and the frame, which some people find unattractive.
• Limited Performance Benefits: They don't improve the suspension's performance or off-road capabilities.
• May Require Modifications: Body lift kits may require modifications to the vehicle's wiring, hoses, and other components.

Choosing the Right Lift Kit

So, how do you choose the right lift kit for your Mitsubishi Lancer? Here are a few factors to consider:

Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a lift kit? Spacer kits are the most affordable, while suspension lift kits are the most expensive.

Intended Use: What do you plan to use your lifted Lancer for? If you're primarily concerned with aesthetics and occasional light off-roading, a spacer kit may suffice. But if you want to tackle more challenging terrain, a suspension lift kit is a better choice.

Lift Height: How much lift do you need? Consider the size of tires you want to run and the type of terrain you'll be driving on.

Installation Difficulty: Are you comfortable installing the lift kit yourself, or will you need to hire a professional? Spacer kits are the easiest to install, while suspension lift kits require more expertise.

Ride Quality: Do you want to maintain or improve the ride quality of your Lancer? Some lift kits can negatively affect ride quality, while others can actually enhance it.

Reputation and Quality: Research different brands and read reviews to ensure you're choosing a reputable and high-quality lift kit.

Installation of a Lift Kit

Installing a lift kit can be a challenging task, especially if you're not experienced with automotive repair. If you're not comfortable working on your car, it's best to have the lift kit installed by a professional mechanic.

However, if you're feeling ambitious and have the necessary tools and skills, you can attempt to install the lift kit yourself. Here are some general steps involved in the installation process:

1. Preparation: Gather all the necessary tools and equipment, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and a torque wrench. Read the lift kit's instructions carefully and familiarize yourself with the installation process.
2. Disassembly: Remove the wheels and tires, and then disconnect the brake lines, ABS wires, and other components that may be in the way. Carefully remove the existing struts, springs, and other suspension components.
3. Installation: Install the new lift kit components according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may involve bolting on spacers, replacing struts and springs, or modifying existing suspension parts.
4. Reassembly: Reconnect all the brake lines, ABS wires, and other components that were disconnected. Reinstall the wheels and tires.
5. Alignment: After installing the lift kit, it's essential to have the vehicle's alignment checked and adjusted by a professional. This will ensure proper handling and prevent premature tire wear.

Important Safety Note: Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle. Never rely solely on a jack to support the weight of the car. And be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from injury.

Considerations Before Installation

Before you rush out and buy a lift kit, there are a few things you should keep in mind. These considerations can help you make an informed decision and avoid potential problems down the road.

Vehicle Compatibility: Make sure the lift kit you choose is specifically designed for your Mitsubishi Lancer's year and model. Not all lift kits are created equal, and using the wrong kit can lead to serious safety issues.

Warranty Implications: Installing a lift kit may void your vehicle's warranty, particularly if it's still under the manufacturer's warranty. Check with your dealer or read your warranty documentation to understand the potential consequences.

Legal Restrictions: Some states or municipalities may have laws regulating vehicle height and modifications. Check your local regulations to ensure your lifted Lancer is street legal.

Insurance Costs: Modifying your vehicle with a lift kit may affect your insurance rates. Contact your insurance company to inquire about potential changes to your premiums.

Driving Habits: Consider how you typically drive your Lancer. If you primarily use it for commuting and running errands, a lift kit may not be necessary. But if you frequently encounter rough roads or off-road conditions, a lift kit can be a valuable upgrade.

The Final Verdict

A Mitsubishi Lancer lift kit can be a great way to enhance the appearance and capability of your car. Whether you're looking for a more aggressive look, improved ground clearance, or the ability to run larger tires, a lift kit can help you achieve your goals. Just be sure to do your research, choose the right kit for your needs, and have it installed properly. With a little planning and effort, you can transform your Lancer into a unique and capable machine.