What Size Lift Do I Need to Fit 33-Inch, 35-INch, or 37-Inch Tires?
29th May 2026
The Quest For Bigger Tires
For people regularly going on off-road adventures, bigger tires have an array of different benefits, including increased ground clearance, better traction, and just a more aggressive aesthetic. Sometimes, just getting a lift kit isn’t enough and you could need more depending on your SUV or pickup’s wheel offset and intended use. At Iron Rigs 4x4, we’re more than happy to teach you the ins and outs of increasing tire size, so you can have an even better time off the beaten track.
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Suspension Lifts vs. Leveling Kits vs. Body Lifts
There are three different types of standard lifts for your vehicle:
- Leveling kits remove factory rake and are usually enough for slightly larger tires, like 33-inch ones, increasing their size by one to 2.5 inches.
- Suspension lifts replace shocks, springs, and control arms for maximum clearance and articulation, usually required for 35 and 37-inch tires and giving an increase of two to six inches in tire size.
- Body lifts are a more budget-friendly way to add fender clearance without altering suspension geometry.
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The 33-Inch Tire Benchmark: The Perfect Daily Driver Size
While vehicles with 33-inch tires typically require a lift of 0 to 2.5 inches, many modern 4x4 models will end up not requiring a lift at all, already able to accommodate the size of the tires. This includes models like Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, and some full-size pickups. Others like the Toyota Tacoma or Chevy Colorado usually need a two-inch leveling kit or mild suspension lift. 33-inch tires have the smallest impact on fuel economy, factory gearing is usually fine, and they work great for both overlanding and daily driving.
Stepping Up to 35-Inch Tires: The Off-Road Standard
These tires generally require a lift of around 2.5 to four inches and are where more major changes may be required. Models like the aforementioned Wrangler or Bronco only need two to 2.5-inch lift, but mid-size trucks will need three inches or more. You may also need to consider trimming the plastic bumper pieces and wheel backspacing so tires don’t rub on the frame or control arms. Not to mention, the added weight may change how the vehicle handles.
Going Massive with 37-Inch Tires: The Hardcore Crawler
These tires will require a lift of 3.5 to six inches, alongside more major modifications. 37-inch tires are a much greater commitment, but they’re exactly what you need for high-quality off-roading. Some Jeep trims can get it done with a 3.5 to 4.5-inch lift, independent front suspension (IFS) trucks require a six-inch drop-bracket lift or long-travel suspension. These tires give your vehicle a higher center of gravity, but also require special, high-clearance fenders.
It’s Not Just About the Lift: Other Crucial Clearances
There are a few things you need to keep in mind when increasing your tire size to ensure your vehicle and its new components can last as long as possible, such as:
- Wheel offset and backspacing: Pushing the wheel further out to prevent the tire from rubbing the suspension, while also increasing the chance of rubbing the outer fender or cab mount.
- Trimming and cutting: For larger tire sizes, you may need to trim, modify, or fully remove your fender or crash bar.
- Up-travel vs. downtravel: Just remember that a tire might fit in the driveway, but also rub aggressively when the suspension flexes on the trail.
The Hidden Costs of Upgrading to 35s and 37s
Be careful when it comes to upgrading your tires, as it’s possible with heavier tires your vehicle could change in a way you find unfavorable. Just slapping on heavy 37-inch tires on factory gears will make your vehicle feel sluggish and just have an overall negative impact on the transmission. You’ll also need bigger brakes, as the factory ones struggle to stop 35-inch tires safely. Heavy tires also break weaker factory parts on trails, such as track bars, tie rods, ball joints, and chromoly axle shafts. In order to best drive with these new tires, you may need to get all of these components upgraded.
Ready to Build Your Big Rig?
When you want to get bigger tires, it's best to remember what your goal is with your vehicle. Daily drivers may do better with 33-inchers, overlanders work best with 35s, and 37s should go on a rock crawler. Browse through the lift kits, wheels, and tires we have available at our accessory dealer to find what you desire. If you have any other questions about personalized service, don’t hesitate to contact us online at Iron Rigs 4x4.