Rough Country is known for offering affordable lift kits that enhance vehicles’ looks and off-road abilities. However, it’s essential to recognize some of the challenges that can come with these kits.
While they deliver the height and rugged appearance many drivers crave, users have reported issues affecting ride comfort, alignment, and overall performance.
Knowing these potential problems can help ensure your vehicle remains functional and stylish after the installation.
Table of Contents
1. Ride Quality Decline
Many drivers notice a significant drop in ride comfort after installing a Rough Country lift kit. What was once a smooth drive can become noticeably harsher, with more bouncing and jolting over uneven surfaces.
This shift is often attributed to the kit’s shock absorbers, designed for durability on rough terrain but can feel too stiff on regular roads.
The springs, built to handle extra height and weight, also contribute to a firmer ride, which might not suit every driver’s preference.
Owners of vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-2018) and Chevy Silverado 1500 (2014-2018) often share their experiences on forums, mentioning that the ride quality declined after the installation. Descriptions like “bouncy” or “unforgiving” are common, especially on rougher roads.
This issue seems more noticeable in the Jeep Wrangler JK and Chevy Silverado 1500 models, where the shock and spring combination from Rough Country may favor off-road performance over everyday comfort.
2. Alignment and Steering Concerns
Another frequent issue Rough Country lift kit users reported is the impact on vehicle alignment and steering.
Lifting a vehicle alters its suspension geometry, and if these changes aren’t managed correctly, it can lead to problems like uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or a wandering steering feel. These issues can make driving more challenging and increase tire maintenance costs.
The alignment challenges are often due to the kit not including all the necessary parts to correct the suspension geometry.
The suspension can stay out of alignment without proper adjustments to the track bar or the addition of adjustable control arms. This misalignment can cause a “bump steer,” where the steering reacts unpredictably to bumps and dips in the road.
Drivers of the Ford F-150 (2009-2014) and Jeep Wrangler TJ (1997-2006) frequently mention that problems like uneven tire wear and vague steering persist even after professional alignment attempts.
These issues are prevalent in these vehicle models, often requiring additional aftermarket parts to fully resolve the alignment challenges brought on by the lift kit.
3. Suspension Component Issues
While famous for their affordability, Rough Country lift kits have been reported to cause premature wear or failure of various suspension parts.
Users have experienced leaking shocks, bending control arms, and faster-than-expected bushing wear. These problems can reduce vehicle performance and increase maintenance costs.
One reason for these failures could be the quality of the materials used in the components. While the kits are competitively priced, some users believe this lower cost might come at the expense of durability.
Components like shocks and control arms might not hold up as well as higher-end alternatives, especially when exposed to off-road conditions or heavy loads.
For instance, owners of the Toyota Tacoma (2016+) and RAM 1500 (2013-2018) have reported that after installing a Rough Country lift kit, their vehicles experienced issues like leaking shocks and worn-out bushings within just a few thousand miles.
Often used for off-roading or heavy-duty tasks, these vehicles seem particularly prone to these problems, indicating that the lift kits may not be sturdy enough for such demanding applications.
4. Installation Challenges
Installing a Rough Country lift kit can present several challenges, even for those with mechanical experience. Users often report issues with fitment, missing parts, and unclear instructions, all of which can complicate the installation process and lead to frustration.
Fitment issues are a common complaint. Some users find that the parts in the kit do not align perfectly with their vehicle, requiring additional modifications, specialized tools, or extra time to get everything properly installed.
For example, certain control arms or brackets might not line up correctly, making it difficult to secure them without adjustments.
Also, the instructions provided with Rough Country kits are often criticized for being vague or incomplete. This lack of clarity can lead to confusion during installation, especially for those attempting the job for the first time.
Users of the Ford F-150 (2015-2020) and Jeep Wrangler JL (2018+) have shared their struggles with installation due to poor fitment and inadequate guidance from the instructions.
These installation challenges sometimes lead to the decision to seek professional help, which can increase the overall cost of the lift kit.
Despite the initial appeal of a DIY installation, the difficulties faced during the process can diminish the perceived value of the kit.
5. Noise and Vibration Problems
After installing a Rough Country lift kit, some users have reported increased noise and vibrations, which can detract from the driving experience.
These issues often arise from loose or improperly tightened components and potential incompatibilities between the lift kit and the vehicle’s stock parts.
One of the main causes of these problems is the possibility of components becoming loose over time, especially if they weren’t adequately tightened during installation. This can lead to rattling noises, particularly when driving over rough terrain or at higher speeds.
Also, the lift kit might cause interference with the vehicle’s stock components, further contributing to increased vibrations and noise.
Owners of vehicles like the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD (2015-2020) and Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011-2018) have shared that they experienced these issues after installing Rough Country lift kits.
The noises often stem from loose bolts or parts not designed to work seamlessly with the vehicle’s original components.
To reduce these problems, regular inspections and maintenance are recommended to ensure that all parts remain secure.
Periodic bolt tightening and checking for signs of wear or misalignment can help reduce noise and vibrations, preserving a more comfortable driving experience.
Conclusion
While Rough Country lift kits are famous for their affordability and off-road capability, they have potential downsides.
From ride comfort to installation challenges, awareness of these issues can help you make a more informed decision.
Proper maintenance and addressing problems early on can ensure that your vehicle remains enjoyable to drive, even after the lift.