Why Lift Your 2017 Honda Ridgeline?
Installing a lift kit on your 2017 Honda Ridgeline provides increased ground clearance, allowing for larger tires and improved off-road performance. This upgrade significantly enhances the truck's aggressive stance and utility for light trail use or simply for aesthetic appeal.
- Lift kits increase Ridgeline ground clearance for larger tires.
- They improve off-road capability and visual appeal.
- Key considerations include lift height and tire size.
- Proper installation is crucial for safety and performance.
Many owners seek to elevate their Ridgeline beyond its factory height for functional or stylistic reasons. This often involves adding a suspension lift or body lift, though for the 2017 model, suspension-based kits are the primary focus for genuine performance gains. Understanding your needs—whether it's clearing larger obstacles on the trail or achieving a more imposing look—will guide your selection process. While other vehicles like the Polaris Ranger or Can Am Defender are frequently lifted for extreme off-roading, the Ridgeline offers a unique blend of truck utility and SUV comfort, making a modest lift a popular modification.
The primary benefit is the ability to fit larger tires, which directly contributes to increased ground clearance. This is fundamental for navigating uneven terrain and avoiding damage to the undercarriage. Beyond practicality, a lifted Ridgeline presents a more rugged and customized aesthetic that many owners desire.
For the 2017 Honda Ridgeline, the most common and effective lift height is typically around 2 inches. This moderate increase strikes a balance between achieving noticeable improvements and maintaining manageable driving dynamics and component stress. Going significantly higher can introduce more complex installation, affect handling, and require extensive modifications to driveline components and suspension geometry.
Assessing Your Ridgeline's Needs
Before diving into specific products, evaluate your intended use. Are you planning light trail excursions, tackling snowy conditions, or simply aiming for a bolder look? Your answer dictates the necessary lift height and the type of components you'll need. For instance, if your goal is simply to fit slightly larger all-terrain tires, a 2-inch lift might be sufficient, whereas more aggressive off-roading could push you to consider maximum tire clearance capabilities.
It is imperative to acknowledge that while lift kits are common on many truck platforms, from the 3rd Gen Tacoma to the Hummer H2, the specific engineering for the unibody Honda Ridgeline requires a tailored approach. Kits designed for body-on-frame trucks, like many Jeep or larger SUV lift kits, are not directly compatible.
Consider the long-term implications. Will the lift affect your daily commute, fuel economy, or towing capacity? A well-chosen lift kit minimizes these trade-offs.
The most critical decision is aligning lift height with your tire size goals.
Choosing the Right 2017 Ridgeline Lift Kit
Selecting the optimal lift kit for your 2017 Honda Ridgeline involves understanding the different types of lifts and their components. For this specific truck, suspension lift kits are the most prevalent and beneficial. These kits work by altering or adding to the existing suspension components to raise the vehicle's body and frame.
The most common type is a **strut spacer lift kit**. These are relatively simple, cost-effective components that install on top of the existing front struts and/or rear shocks. They effectively increase ride height without requiring extensive modification to the suspension geometry. While straightforward, they can sometimes alter the strut's angle, potentially affecting ride quality or limiting suspension travel if not designed carefully. Many truck owners looking for a modest lift, similar to what a Geo Tracker owner might seek, opt for this method.
Another option, though less common for the Ridgeline specifically, might involve fabricated components or control arm adjustments for more complex lifts. However, for a 2017 Ridgeline, stick to kits explicitly designed for it, often marketed as 2-inch lift kits. These are engineered to work with the Ridgeline's independent front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, minimizing adverse effects on alignment and driveline angles. Even specialized applications like a Club Car lift kit and wheel combo for golf carts have specific design parameters, highlighting the need for vehicle-specific solutions.
When evaluating kits, look for quality materials like high-strength steel or durable polyurethane. Ensure the kit includes all necessary hardware for a complete installation, such as extended brake lines if required by the lift height, or differential drop brackets if applicable (though less common on Ridgelines). The primary consideration involves ensuring the kit maintains proper alignment and doesn't put undue stress on CV joints, a common concern with lifted front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles.
A well-chosen lift kit enhances your Ridgeline's utility and aesthetics without compromising its inherent reliability.
The choice between a 1-inch, 1.5-inch, or 2-inch lift depends on your desired tire size and aesthetic. A 2-inch lift is generally the sweet spot for the 2017 Ridgeline, allowing for up to 32-inch tires (e.g., 265/65R18) with minimal or no rubbing, depending on the tire's specific tread pattern and offset. This offers a substantial upgrade in ground clearance and visual presence.
Verify that any lift kit you consider is specifically engineered for the 2017 Honda Ridgeline. Generic kits or those for other truck types, such as a Stryker lift kit or even those for a Porsche Cayenne, will not fit and could cause serious damage.
Key Components to Look For
A quality lift kit for your 2017 Ridgeline should include:
- Front strut spacers (top or bottom mount)
- Rear shock/spring spacers or extended rear shocks
- All necessary Grade 8 hardware (bolts, nuts, washers)
- Detailed installation instructions
The quality of the materials directly impacts the kit's longevity and safety.
Installation and Where to Buy Your Lift Kit
Once you've selected the right lift kit for your 2017 Honda Ridgeline, the next crucial step is installation. While some enthusiasts with mechanical aptitude might tackle this themselves, professional installation is highly recommended to ensure safety, proper alignment, and optimal performance. This is especially true for complex suspension modifications, and finding qualified lift kit installers near me is a common search for many truck owners.
Professional installers have the specialized tools, knowledge, and experience to correctly mount the lift kit, ensuring all components are torqued to specification and that the vehicle's alignment is reset accurately. Improper installation can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and potential damage to suspension components or the drivetrain. Think of it like installing a lift kit on a utility vehicle like a Polaris Ranger—precision is key for functionality.
If you're considering a DIY installation, ensure you have a well-equipped garage, a service manual for your 2017 Ridgeline, and a solid understanding of suspension systems. Mistakes can be costly, far outweighing the savings on professional labor. Many owners opt for professional help even for simpler tasks, prioritizing peace of mind.
When it comes to purchasing your lift kit, several avenues exist. Reputable online automotive parts retailers are a primary source, offering a wide selection of brands and competitive pricing. Look for vendors specializing in truck and SUV accessories, as they often carry the most relevant options for your 2017 Honda Ridgeline.
Directly from manufacturers is another option, often providing detailed product information and support. Additionally, local truck accessory shops can be excellent resources, not only for purchasing but also for installation services. They often stock popular kits or can order them quickly. Consider the total package: product cost, shipping fees, and installation expenses when making your final decision.
Ask your chosen installer about their experience with Honda Ridgeline modifications specifically; this ensures they understand the nuances of this unibody truck's suspension system and can properly advise on alignment and potential future needs.
The final decision on where to buy should balance price, availability, and the reputation of the seller.