Modifying your truck with a suspension lift might improve off-road capability and turn heads, but it can also complicate your insurance coverage. Whether you’re lifting a Ford F-150, Ram 1500, or Tacoma, it’s important to understand how these mods affect liability, premiums, and claim approvals.
In this guide, we’ll break down what lifted truck owners need to know before—and after—making modifications, and how to avoid insurance pitfalls.
Do Lift Kits Affect Insurance?
Yes, absolutely.
Installing a lift kit—especially anything over 2 inches—can significantly impact how insurers view your truck. Since lifting changes the truck’s center of gravity, braking, and handling, some insurance companies will either:
- Increase your premium
- Exclude coverage for off-road incidents
- Require a custom vehicle endorsement
- Deny certain claims outright if the mod is undisclosed
Why Lifted Trucks Raise Red Flags for Insurers
Insurance companies weigh several risks when insuring modified trucks:
| Risk Factor | Insurance Impact |
|---|---|
| Higher center of gravity | Increased rollover risk; affects liability |
| Expensive mods | Adds to repair/replacement costs |
| Aftermarket parts | May not be covered without documentation |
| Non-OEM height | May void certain policy terms |
If you don’t declare your modifications, you’re gambling on claim denial—even in unrelated accidents.
What Type of Coverage Do You Need?
1. Comprehensive and Collision
Standard policies often exclude aftermarket parts unless specified. If your lift kit costs $1,000+ and isn’t declared, you likely won’t be reimbursed.
2. Custom Parts & Equipment Coverage (CPE)
This is the most essential add-on for modded vehicles. CPE covers aftermarket installations like:
- Lift kits and leveling kits
- Off-road tires
- Custom shocks and suspension components
3. Gap Coverage (if financing)
A lifted truck depreciates quickly and costs more to replace. Gap coverage can protect you from paying out of pocket if your truck is totaled and you owe more than it’s worth.
4. Increased Liability Limits
Lifted trucks can cause more damage in a collision. Upping your liability coverage helps protect you financially.
How to Properly Insure a Lifted Truck
✅ Disclose Every Modification
List your lift kit and any suspension, tire, or fender modifications to your insurer.
✅ Provide Receipts & Photos
Documentation speeds up claim approval and helps verify upgrade value.
✅ Shop for Mod-Friendly Insurers
Some insurers specialize in modified vehicles and are more flexible. Others may drop you altogether.
✅ Compare Quotes
Lifting your truck may raise your premium by 10–20%, depending on the kit and region. Compare at least three providers before settling.
Top Insurance Companies for Lifted Trucks
| Insurance Company | Mod-Friendliness | Offers CPE? | Online Modification Disclosure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Progressive | Very friendly | Yes | ✅ |
| Safeco | Moderate | Yes | ✅ |
| GEICO | Cautiously allows | Limited | ⚠️ Call required |
| State Farm | Case-by-case | Yes | ⚠️ Call required |
| Hagerty | Great for show trucks | Yes | ✅ |
Pros & Cons of Insuring a Lifted Truck
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Custom coverage is available | ❌ Premiums often increase |
| ✅ Adds resale and style value | ❌ Some insurers will deny or drop coverage |
| ✅ Covers costly mods in case of damage | ❌ Requires more paperwork/documentation |
| ✅ Liability adjustments protect you | ❌ Not all states allow lifted vehicles |
FAQs
Q1: Can I get insurance if I lift my truck after buying it?
Yes, but you must update your policy with the new configuration immediately. Failing to disclose it can void coverage.
Q2: Will my policy cover off-road damage?
Only if you have off-road use coverage, which is rare and must be added intentionally. Standard policies do not cover trail damage.
Q3: What’s the safest lift height to avoid insurance issues?
A 2-inch lift or less is generally considered safe and insurable by most providers. Anything above 4 inches may require specialty insurers.