Quick answer: Yes - a lift kit can lower MPG, but tire size is the biggest factor, not the lift itself. Larger, heavier tires (especially 35s and up) take more energy to turn. Keep tires close to stock size and the hit is minimal.
One of the most common questions truck owners ask before installing a lift kit is how it will affect fuel economy.
At Lift Pro Customs in Willis, TX, we get this question all the time from customers with Ford F150, Ram 1500, and Chevy Silverado trucks. The short answer is yes, lift kits can affect MPG, but how much depends on your setup.
Why Lift Kits Affect MPG
When you install a lift kit, you are increasing the height and changing the aerodynamics of your truck.
A taller truck creates more wind resistance, which requires more power to maintain speed. This can lead to a decrease in fuel efficiency.
Tire Size and Weight
One of the biggest factors affecting MPG is tire size.
Larger tires, especially 35 inch tires and above, are heavier and require more energy to rotate. This can reduce fuel economy compared to smaller tires like 33s.
Wheel weight and tire type also play a role in overall performance.
Driving Habits Matter
How you drive your truck also affects MPG.
Aggressive acceleration, highway speeds, and stop-and-go driving all influence fuel consumption. A lifted truck driven aggressively will see a bigger drop in MPG compared to one driven conservatively.
Quick Estimate
How Much MPG Do You Lose
Most trucks see a small decrease in fuel economy after installing a lift kit.
The exact amount varies depending on lift height, tire size, and overall setup. Smaller lifts with moderate tire sizes tend to have less impact, while larger builds can reduce MPG more noticeably.
Ways to Minimize MPG Loss
Choosing the right setup can help reduce the impact on fuel economy.
Sticking with moderate tire sizes, selecting lighter wheels, and maintaining proper alignment can all help your truck perform more efficiently.
Why Proper Setup Matters
A well-built setup will always perform better than one that is thrown together.
At Lift Pro Customs, we help customers choose the right combination of lift height, wheels, and tires to balance performance, appearance, and drivability.
Why Choose Lift Pro Customs
We specialize in lift kits, leveling kits, wheels, and tires for Ford, Ram, and Chevy trucks.
We help you build a setup that not only looks right but also performs the way it should.
Service Areas
Lift Pro Customs serves Willis, Conroe, Montgomery, Huntsville, and The Woodlands, Texas.
If you’re considering a lift kit and want to know how it will affect MPG, we’re here to help.
Build Your Truck the Right Way
Call Lift Pro Customs today or request a quote online.
We’ll help you choose the right setup for your truck.
Related reading: Leveling Kit vs Lift Kit • Lift & Leveling Kit Installation
Get a free estimate or call (936) 320-8120 — Lift Pro Customs, Willis, TX. Just browsing? Ballpark your build — no contact info needed.