4-Inch vs. 6-Inch: Choosing the Right Lift for Your 2021+ F-150
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So, a leveling kit isn't enough. You want your 2021–2025 Ford F-150 to stand out from the herd of stock trucks in the parking lot. You want a true Suspension Lift.
But now you face the classic dilemma: 4 inches or 6 inches?
It seems like a small difference, but it changes everything about how you use the truck. A 4-inch lift is often called the "Gentleman's Lift"—it clears 35-inch tires easily, maintains decent handling, and (usually) still fits in a standard 7-foot garage door.
A 6-inch lift is a statement. It gives you the clearance to run massive 37-inch tires, but it makes loading the bed harder and might require recalibrating your BlueCruise cameras.
In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of each height, discuss the "Point of No Return" (cutting your crossmember), and explain which kits work with the CCD Active Suspension.
Compare Lift Heights
How high should you go?
|
Lift Height |
Tire Size |
Install Difficulty |
Best For |
|
3-Inch Lift |
33" - 34" |
Medium. Bolt-on arms/coilovers. |
Overlanding. Good ground clearance without cutting the frame. |
|
4-Inch Lift |
35" |
High. Requires cutting. |
Daily Driving. The "Goldilocks" size. Big stance, but still fits in some garages. |
|
6-Inch Lift |
35" - 37" |
High. Requires cutting. |
Show & Mud. Maximum visual impact and off-road clearance. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Lift Kits)
Does lifting my F-150 void the warranty?
It does not void the entire warranty. However, if a suspension part (like a ball joint or CV axle) fails, the dealer may deny that specific claim. To mitigate this, many owners choose kits from BDS Suspension or ReadyLIFT, which offer their own supplemental powertrain warranties ("Factor 55" or similar protection).
What is the difference between a Lift Kit and a Leveling Kit?
A Leveling Kit (0-2.5") typically just raises the front to match the rear. A Lift Kit (3"+) raises both the front and rear, usually using "Drop Crossmembers" to lower the differential and control arms. This keeps the suspension angles flat (like stock), preventing premature wear on CV joints, even at 6 inches of height.
Will my Onboard Scales still work?
If your F-150 is equipped with the "Smart Hitch" or Onboard Scales, lifting the truck can affect the sensor readings. Some premium lift kits include relocation brackets for the height sensors to retain this feature, but you should verify this in the product notes before purchasing.
Build the truck you want.
Clear 35s or 37s with factory ride quality. Shop our verified collection of [2021–2025 F-150 Suspension Lift Kits] from BDS, Zone, and Rough Country.