When something seems too good to be true, it usually isn't. Remember that amazing deal on the Brooklyn Bridge? But, that's not the case with lift kits. Whether you're looking to compensate for those larger tires or just want a little extra lift to position yourself above the herd, inexpensive lift kits are affordable and easy to install yourself. Suspend your disbelief and prepare to be amazed!

Lift kits come in two formats: a body lift kit and a suspension lift kit. As its name implies, a body lift kit raises a vehicle's body, but the stock suspension system remains the same height. On the other hand, a suspension lift kit raises the actual height of the stock suspension component, which also raises the body of the rig.

Though somewhat time-consuming, installing a lift kit is a fairly simple process. Unlike older lift kits, current models like the Jeep Wrangler lift kit, Suburban lift kit and Sierra lift kit, are custom-configured to each make, model and year. Plus, many lift kits are engineered to bolt directly onto your stock suspension without any modification—no welding, chopping or fabricating required. Even if you're not brave enough to take on the job yourself, you can still save a ton of money by buying the parts separately and paying for the labor at a local shop.

But, for those who are brave enough, here's a general overview of the process.

Begin by elevating the vehicle with a trolley jack or lift unit so all four wheels are off the ground. After removing the wheels, you can disconnect the sway bar, tie rods and the control arm. After that, carefully remove each shock, strut and coil from the wheels.

Next, make note of the amount of space between the strut top plate and the bottom of each shock. You can then use a spring compressor to compress each spring and remove each rubber unit of the shock array components. Once the rubber components are removed, new lift kit rubber elements and plates can be mounted in their place.

After new plates and rubber shock units are reinstalled and bolted on tight, attach each shock by adhering to the measurements previously noted. The skid plates can now be removed and the bolts and fasteners holding up the differential are taken out. Doing so allows for the spacers, which are mounted between the differential and cross supports.

When the spacing units are mounted correctly in place, the skid plates are reconnected and the shock absorbers are aligned, the job is complete and the vehicle should be lifted according to the specifications of the kit.

When you modify the height of your vehicle, pay close attention to your suspension system. The suspension in your car or truck supports the weight of the vehicle, its passengers and cargo. Lift kits, like the Silverado lift kit or Ford F150 lift kits, raise your vehicle higher off its center of gravity, increasing the amount of effort the suspension has to put out. So, be prepared to add performance-grade suspension components to avoid excessive body squat and dive while accelerating or braking, keeping your suspension performing safely and at its peak.