Are you thinking about giving your Mitsubishi Lancer a new look and enhanced performance? A lift kit might be just what you need! Whether you're aiming for a more aggressive stance, better off-road capabilities, or simply want to stand out from the crowd, a lift kit can significantly transform your Lancer. In this article, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about lift kits for your Mitsubishi Lancer. Let's get started!

What is a Lift Kit?

Let's start with the basics. What exactly is a lift kit? Simply put, a lift kit is a set of components designed to raise the body or suspension of your vehicle, increasing its ground clearance. This modification can provide several benefits, both aesthetically and functionally. For the Mitsubishi Lancer, a lift kit can offer a unique blend of style and practicality.

Types of Lift Kits

There are generally two main types of lift kits:

1. Body Lift Kits: These kits raise the body of the vehicle away from the frame, providing additional clearance for larger tires without altering the suspension geometry. Body lift kits are typically more affordable and easier to install but don't improve off-road performance as much as suspension lift kits.
2. Suspension Lift Kits: These kits modify the suspension components, such as springs, shocks, and control arms, to lift the vehicle and improve its off-road capabilities. Suspension lift kits offer better performance and handling but are usually more expensive and require more complex installation.

For a Mitsubishi Lancer, you'll primarily be looking at suspension lift kits due to the vehicle's unibody construction. These kits will directly affect your car's handling and ride quality, so choosing the right one is crucial.

Benefits of Installing a Lift Kit on Your Mitsubishi Lancer

Installing a lift kit on your Mitsubishi Lancer can bring a host of advantages. Let's explore some of the key benefits:

• Enhanced Appearance: Let's face it; a lifted Lancer looks incredibly cool. The increased ride height gives your car a more aggressive and commanding presence on the road, setting it apart from other compact sedans. The aesthetic upgrade alone is a significant draw for many enthusiasts.
• Increased Ground Clearance: While the Lancer isn't typically an off-road vehicle, a lift kit can provide additional ground clearance to navigate uneven terrain, speed bumps, and other obstacles without scraping the undercarriage. This is particularly useful if you live in an area with rough roads or frequently encounter challenging driving conditions.
• Larger Tire Compatibility: A lift kit creates more space in the wheel wells, allowing you to install larger, more aggressive tires. This not only enhances the vehicle's appearance but can also improve traction and handling in various driving conditions. Imagine your Lancer sporting some beefy all-terrain tires – pretty awesome, right?
• Improved Visibility: Sitting higher up gives you a better view of the road and surrounding traffic. This improved visibility can enhance safety and make driving more comfortable, especially on long journeys.
• Customization: A lift kit is just one step in customizing your Lancer to reflect your personal style and preferences. It opens the door to further modifications and upgrades, allowing you to create a truly unique vehicle.

Choosing the Right Lift Kit for Your Mitsubishi Lancer

Selecting the perfect lift kit for your Mitsubishi Lancer requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Lift Height: Determine how much lift you want to achieve. A subtle lift of 1-2 inches can provide a noticeable improvement in appearance and ground clearance, while a more substantial lift of 3 inches or more will create a more aggressive look and enhance off-road capabilities. Consider your intended use and driving conditions when choosing the lift height.
• Kit Components: Research the components included in the lift kit. A comprehensive kit should include all the necessary hardware, such as springs, shocks, struts, and mounting brackets, to ensure a proper and safe installation. Pay attention to the quality and durability of the components, as they will directly impact the ride quality and longevity of the lift kit.
• Ride Quality: Consider how the lift kit will affect the ride quality of your Lancer. Some lift kits may result in a stiffer or more bouncy ride, while others are designed to maintain or even improve the original ride quality. Read reviews and talk to other Lancer owners who have installed lift kits to get a better understanding of their experiences.
• Installation: Assess your ability to install the lift kit yourself or whether you will need professional installation. Some lift kits are designed for easy installation and can be done with basic tools and mechanical knowledge, while others require more specialized equipment and expertise. If you're not comfortable working on your car's suspension, it's best to leave the installation to a qualified mechanic.
• Budget: Set a budget for your lift kit installation. Lift kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the quality, components, and complexity of the kit. Factor in the cost of installation if you're not doing it yourself.

Popular Lift Kit Brands for Mitsubishi Lancer

While the Mitsubishi Lancer isn't as commonly lifted as trucks or SUVs, some brands offer lift solutions tailored for it. It's important to do thorough research and possibly consult with automotive specialists to find compatible and reliable options.

• Custom Fabrications: Given the limited off-the-shelf options, many Lancer enthusiasts turn to custom fabrication shops. These shops can design and build a lift kit specifically for your Lancer, ensuring optimal fit and performance. This route can be more expensive but offers the most flexibility and customization.
• Universal Kits with Modifications: Some universal lift kits can be adapted to fit the Lancer with some modifications. However, this requires advanced mechanical skills and a thorough understanding of your vehicle's suspension system. Proceed with caution and consult with professionals before attempting this.

Installation Process

The installation process for a Mitsubishi Lancer lift kit can vary depending on the type and complexity of the kit. Here's a general overview of the steps involved:

1. Preparation: Gather all the necessary tools and equipment, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and a torque wrench. Read the lift kit's instructions carefully and familiarize yourself with the installation process.
2. Vehicle Preparation: Park your Lancer on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels before lifting the vehicle.
3. Lifting the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the vehicle and place jack stands securely under the frame. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
4. Removing the Wheels: Remove the wheels from the vehicle.
5. Disassembling the Suspension: Carefully disconnect and remove the existing suspension components, such as the shocks, struts, springs, and control arms. Follow the lift kit's instructions and use appropriate tools to avoid damaging any parts.
6. Installing the Lift Kit Components: Install the new lift kit components, following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that all bolts and nuts are properly tightened to the specified torque values.
7. Reassembling the Suspension: Reassemble the suspension, connecting all the components and ensuring they are properly aligned.
8. Installing the Wheels: Reinstall the wheels and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque values.
9. Lowering the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground.
10. Final Inspection: Double-check all the connections and ensure that everything is properly installed. Test drive the vehicle to check for any issues.

Professional Installation

If you're not comfortable installing the lift kit yourself, it's best to have it professionally installed. A qualified mechanic can ensure that the lift kit is installed correctly and safely, and they can also address any potential issues that may arise during the installation process.

Things to Consider After Installation

After installing a lift kit on your Mitsubishi Lancer, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Alignment: Have your vehicle's alignment checked and adjusted by a professional. Lifting your vehicle can affect the alignment, which can lead to uneven tire wear and handling issues.
• Headlight Adjustment: Check and adjust your headlights to ensure they are properly aimed. Lifting your vehicle can change the angle of your headlights, which can affect visibility.
• Tire Size: If you've installed larger tires, make sure they don't rub against the fenders or suspension components. You may need to trim the fenders or install wheel spacers to prevent rubbing.
• Handling: Be aware that lifting your vehicle can affect its handling and stability. Take corners more cautiously and avoid sudden maneuvers.

Conclusion

A Mitsubishi Lancer lift kit can be a fantastic way to enhance your vehicle's appearance, increase ground clearance, and improve its overall capabilities. By carefully considering your needs, researching your options, and following the installation guidelines, you can transform your Lancer into a unique and capable machine. Whether you're hitting the trails or simply cruising around town, a lifted Lancer is sure to turn heads and make a statement. So, are you ready to take your Lancer to the next level? Go for it!