Why Go 4 Inches on a 4Runner?
If you're ready to step up your Toyota 4Runner’s off-road game, a 4-inch lift is the sweet spot. It gives you enough ground clearance for bigger tires and tougher terrain without turning your rig into a top-heavy nightmare. Whether you're trail crawling, desert running, or just want a no-nonsense stance for everyday driving, a 4-inch suspension lift gives you capability without compromise.
What You Can Expect with a 4-Inch Lift
- Room for Bigger Tires: Run 33s with ease—and squeeze in 35s with the right trimming and wheel offset.
- More Clearance: Say goodbye to dragging your skid plates over every boulder and ditch.
- Better Approach Angles: A little extra height goes a long way on rocky trails and steep inclines.
Best Lift Kit Options for the 4Runner
Not all lift kits are created equal. When shopping for a 4-inch lift, look for a complete suspension solution—not just spacer kits that jack up your ride without adjusting geometry. Here are a few tried-and-true brands for a proper 4Runner build:
- Icon Vehicle Dynamics: High-performance suspension built for serious off-roaders and daily drivers alike.
- Old Man Emu (ARB): Great ride quality, solid reliability, and tuned for overlanding.
- Dobinsons: Aussie-born suspension with real-world performance and heavy-duty components.
- Bilstein: Known for rugged, consistent performance on-road and off.
What You’ll Need to Make It Work
A proper 4-inch lift for a 4Runner often includes:
- Front coilovers or lift struts
- Rear coils and extended shocks
- Upper control arms (UCAs) to maintain alignment and travel
- Brake line extensions or relocation brackets
- Diff drop or spacers to fix CV axle angles
Don’t forget a full alignment after the install, especially if you're adding adjustable components. If you're lifting a daily driver, you’ll want to keep handling dialed in—not floating like a boat every time you hit a corner.
Need Trail-Tested Parts?
If you’re looking for lift kits and parts that are built for real off-road conditions—not just showroom looks—check out Offroad Trading Co.. They stock gear for Toyota 4Runners that’s actually been wheeled, not just marketed. Whether you're piecing together your build or want a full kit, they'll help you get the right setup without the guesswork.
Is a 4-Inch Lift Too Much?
Not really. For the 4Runner platform, 4 inches is about the max lift you can run before you start needing serious driveline mods. With the right kit and good install, your SUV will stay daily-drivable, highway-stable, and trail-capable. Just don’t skip over key parts like UCAs or a diff drop if you want everything to last.
The Bottom Line
A 4-inch lift for your 4Runner is a solid way to improve performance, run bigger tires, and give your rig a more aggressive stance. It’s not overkill—but it’s enough to take your trail setup to the next level. Stick with a complete kit, upgrade the supporting parts, and get it aligned right. For gear that’s been tested and trusted, hit up Offroad Trading Co. and get the job done right the first time.