Looking for a reliable 5-inch lift kit to upgrade your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500? This guide compares top Rough Country options to help you pick the right kit for your truck and driving style. Best for off-road enthusiasts, daily drivers needing better ground clearance, and those who want a bold, level stance without sacrificing ride quality. The following picks are organized for different model years and wheel setups to fit a range of owners.
| Product | Year/Model Fit | Best For | Wheel/Tire Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit for 2014-2018 1500 | 2014–2018 4WD | 2014–2018 truck owners seeking a bold stance | 33″ tires on factory 20″ wheels |
| Rough Country 5″ Suspension Lift Kit (2007-2013) 4WD | 2007–2013 Silverado/Sierra 1500 4WD | Rugged off-roading with upgraded dampers | Up to 33″ tires on 18–20″ wheels |
| Rough Country 5″ Suspension Lift Kit (2007-2013) 2WD w/6 Lug | 2007–2013 Silverado/Sierra 1500 2WD | Smooth ride with heavy-duty components | Up to 33″ tires on 18–20″ wheels |
| Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit (2007-2013) 2WD w/18″+ Wheels | 2007–2013 Silverado/Sierra 1500 2WD | Extended tire options and solid performance | Up to 33″ tires on 18–20″ wheels |
| Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit with Cast Steel Arms (2014-2018) | 2014–2018 1500 | Stock-control arms plus improved clearance | Up to 33″ tires on 20″ wheels |
Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit for 2014-2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 4WD
What it is: A 5-inch lift designed to fit 33″ tires with factory 20″ wheels. It levels the factory rake and adds a high-clearance crossmember to improve ground clearance. The kit is built to enhance off-road readiness while preserving a strong, confident stance.
Best for: 2014–2018 Silverado or Sierra 1500 owners who want a bold appearance and improved obstacle clearance without changing their wheels. The level stance helps reduce factory rake and produces a more aggressive look.
Limitations: Requires careful alignment and may affect warranty considerations; verify compatibility with stock components before installation. Consider wheel fit with 33″ tires on stock 20″ wheels.
Rough Country 5″ Suspension Lift Kit with N3 Loaded Struts (2007-2013) 4WD
What it is: A 5-inch lift kit built for 2007–2013 Silverado or Sierra 1500 4WD, designed for up to 33″ tires on stock 18″–20″ wheels. It includes nitrogen-charged N3 struts and premium N3 rear shocks for balanced ride quality and off-road durability.
Best for: 2007–2013 4WD owners who prioritize ride quality and control on both street and trail. The N3 shocks are a key feature for improved handling on varying terrain.
Limitations: Heavy front-end assembly may require additional labor time; ensure compatibility with existing suspension components and potential wheel backspacing when upgrading tires.
Rough Country 5″ Suspension Lift Kit (2007-2013) 2WD w/6 Lug
What it is: A 5-inch lift kit designed for 2007–2013 Silverado or Sierra 1500 2WD with up to 33″ tires on 18–20″ wheels. It emphasizes a bold lift without compromising everyday comfort.
Best for: 2WD truck owners who want a noticeable stance and off-road capability while maintaining a comfortable daily drive. Suitable for users who prefer a straightforward installation with proven components.
Limitations: 2WD configurations may experience different handling dynamics compared to 4WD; plan for potential drivetrain geometry changes and alignments after install.
Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks (2007-2013) 2WD w/18″+ Wheels
What it is: A 5-inch lift kit for 2007–2013 Silverado/Sierra 1500 2WD with compatibility for 33″ tires on factory 18–20″ wheels. It includes N3 loaded struts and premium rear shocks for consistent ride quality across terrains.
Best for: 2WD trucks that want a versatile setup with strong dampers to support both highway use and off-road excursions, especially when upgrading to larger tires.
Limitations: Upgrading to 33″ tires may require fender trimming or other minor clearancing in some wheel/tire combos; confirm with wheel manufacturer guidelines prior to purchase.
Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit with N3 Front and Premium N3 Rear Shocks (2014-2018)
What it is: A 5-inch lift kit for 2014–2018 Silverado or Sierra 1500 with stock cast steel control arms. It provides a bold level stance and 33″ tire clearance with improved front-end geometry via N3 components.
Best for: 2014–2018 owners who want a factory-appropriate arm setup with upgraded dampers and a level front-to-rear stance for better off-road capability.
Limitations: Stock cast steel control arms may limit some steering flex compared to aftermarket arms; verify clearance with your preferred tire sizes and wheels before installing.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right 5-Inch Lift Kit
- Vehicle year and model: Ensure the kit is designed for your exact Silverado or Sierra generation (2014–2018 vs 2007–2013) and whether you drive 2WD or 4WD.
- Wheel and tire compatibility: Most kits support up to 33″ tires. Confirm wheel size compatibility (18″, 20″) and whether stock wheels can be reused.
- Suspension philosophy: N3 loaded struts and premium rear shocks enhance ride quality and durability. Consider kits with fully integrated dampers for mixed on/off-road use.
- Arm design: Kits with stock cast arms versus upgraded control arms affect ground clearance and steering feel. Stock-arm kits are simpler, while upgraded arms can improve articulation.
- Ground clearance and crossmembers: A high-clearance crossmember design improves obstacle navigation but may require additional clearance checks with aftermarket exhaust or sway bar components.
- Installation considerations: Some kits are more complex due to front-end components or alignment requirements. Ensure mechanical confidence or professional installation guidance.
- Ride quality vs. appearance: If comfort is priority, focus on dampers and overall suspension tuning rather than sheer lift height.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the typical tire size you can run with a 5-inch lift?
Most 5-inch lifts support up to 33-inch tires on factory or aftermarket wheels, depending on the kit. Always verify with the kit’s specifications. - Will a 5-inch lift affect my alignment or Drivetrain?
A lift kit can affect alignment and drive-line angles. Professional installation and a post-install alignment are recommended for best results. - Do all 5-inch Rough Country lifts include shocks?
Many kits include N3 loaded struts and rear shocks, but some configurations may vary. Review the product features to confirm included components. - Is a 5-inch lift compatible with stock wheels?
Yes, several kits are designed to work with stock wheels, but some configurations may require a wheel with sufficient backspacing. Check wheel compatibility before purchase. - Can I install a 5-inch kit on a 2WD truck?
Yes. 2WD lift kits are available, but ride characteristics and steering geometry differ from 4WD installations. Consider the intended use and terrain. - Do these lifts affect warranty or insurance?
Lifting a vehicle can impact warranties and insurance in some cases. Check your warranty terms and consult with your insurer before upgrading.