The "Air Ride" Barrier: How to Safely Lift a RAM 1500 Limited or Rebel
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You bought the absolute top-trim 2019–2026 RAM 1500 Limited (or an optioned-out Rebel).
It features that massive 12-inch infotainment screen, the reclining rear leather seats, and the incredibly smooth 4-Corner Active Level Air Suspension. It rides like an absolute cloud.
But now you want to put aggressive 35-inch mud-terrain tires on it.
You call a local shop. They quote you a price for a standard 4-inch lift. Then you mention the words "Air Ride." The tech on the phone pauses. "Oh. We can't lift that."
This is a common, frustrating story for 5th Gen RAM owners. The complex, computerized air system on the Rebel, Limited, and Longhorn trims scares away many average installers and renders 90% of the lift kits on the market useless.
But you CAN lift it. You just need the right engineering.
Instead of replacing standard steel springs, a dedicated Air Ride Lift Kit (from premium manufacturers like Zone Offroad) relocates the entire airbag assembly and utilizes precision "Sensor Brackets" to trick your truck's computer into thinking standard ride height is actually 4 inches higher than factory.
In this guide, we explain exactly how these complex systems work, why you might need front driveshaft correction, and how to keep your factory "Aero Mode" functioning flawlessly even with 35-inch tires.
Compare Lift Kit Options
Clearance, High-Speed Performance, or Factory Air?
|
Kit Type |
Top Brands |
Tire Size |
Best For |
|
4-Inch System |
Superlift / Zone |
35-Inch. |
Daily Drivers. A highly aggressive stance that is still easy to park and puts less stress on drivetrain angles. |
|
6-Inch System |
Zone Offroad |
35" - 37". |
Off-Road / Show. Massive presence. Clears 37s (with minor plastic trimming) for the ultimate truck build. |
|
Air Ride 4" Lift |
Zone Offroad |
35-Inch. |
Limited / Rebel. Specifically engineered to lift the truck while retaining full factory adjustable air-height functionality. |
|
Coilover Upgrade |
ICON Vehicle Dynamics |
35-Inch. |
High Speed. Premium 2.5 Coilovers replace standard spacers to provide incredible Baja-style handling and heat dissipation. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Lift Kits)
Can I lift my RAM 1500 if it has Factory Air Suspension?
Yes, but your options are highly specific.
You absolutely cannot use a standard coil-spring lift kit. To lift an Air Ride truck safely, you need an Air Ride Lift Kit (such as the systems from Zone Offroad). These specialized kits use heavy-duty brackets to physically relocate the factory air bags and sensor links. This essentially "tricks" the RAM's computer into thinking the standard ride height is actually 4 inches higher, allowing you to retain your adjustable height buttons and Aero modes.
Will a 6-inch lift void my factory warranty?
Not entirely, but it affects the modified components.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealership cannot void your entire bumper-to-bumper warranty simply because you installed a lift kit. However, if your factory ball joints, CV axles, or front driveshaft fail prematurely, the dealer will likely blame the altered suspension angles and deny that specific warranty claim. This is why investing in a premium kit from Superlift or Zone Offroad—which corrects those extreme angles with drop crossmembers and taller knuckles—is critical for drivetrain longevity.
Do I need a new driveshaft with a 6-inch lift?
On the New Body (DT) RAM, you need angle correction.
The 2019+ RAM 1500 features a front driveshaft that is incredibly sensitive to steep angles. At a full 6 inches of lift, the downward angle is sharp enough to cause a driveline vibration or "hum" when you engage 4WD (Auto or High). Premium complete kits intentionally include a Driveshaft Spacer or indexing ring to correct this plunge angle.
Go big. Ride smooth.
Clear 35s or 37s without sacrificing your luxury air ride. Shop our verified collection of premium 2019–2026 RAM 1500 Lift Kits.