Ever look at your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 and think, “It needs more attitude?” Maybe you dream of tackling rougher trails, or perhaps you just want that commanding presence on the road. Whatever your reason, the desire to elevate your truck is a common one among Sierra owners.
But let’s be honest, diving into the world of lift kits can feel overwhelming. You’re bombarded with terms like “leveling kits,” “suspension lifts,” and “body lifts.” Deciding which one is right for your truck, your budget, and your driving style can be a real headache. You want to make sure you get the look and the performance you crave without causing problems down the line.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about finding the perfect lift kit for your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500. We’ll help you understand the different types, what to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have the confidence to choose a lift kit that transforms your Sierra into the truck you’ve always wanted.
Our Top 5 Lift Kit For 2017 Gmc Sierra 1500 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Lift Kit For 2017 Gmc Sierra 1500 Detailed Reviews
1. Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit for 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 4WD – 22330
Rating: 8.8/10
Ready to give your 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 4WD a serious upgrade? The Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit (model 22330) is here to transform your truck. This kit adds a commanding presence and boosts its off-road capabilities. You can fit larger tires, level out your truck’s stance, and enjoy a tougher look. It’s designed for a smooth installation and lasting performance.
What We Like:
- Fits 33″ Tires with Factory 20″ Wheels: Keep your stock wheels but get a bolder look and the ability to run bigger tires.
- Levels Factory Rake: Your truck will sit flat and look more aggressive. It also gets ready for off-road adventures.
- High-Clearance Crossmember: This part gives you more ground space. You can drive over obstacles more easily.
- Precision-Made Components: All the parts are cut with lasers. This means they fit perfectly and will last a long time.
- Heavy-Duty Rear Blocks: These blocks are built tough. They are stronger than the usual cast blocks.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some mechanical skill or professional help.
- While it fits 33″ tires, larger sizes might need additional modifications.
This Rough Country lift kit makes a big difference for your truck’s appearance and performance. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a more capable and stylish ride.
2. Rough Country 3.5″ Suspension Lift Kit with N3 Struts/N3 Shocks for Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (2014-2018 w/Stock Cast Alu or Stamped Steel Control Arms)
Rating: 8.8/10
Ready to give your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 a tougher look and better off-road performance? This Rough Country 3.5″ Suspension Lift Kit is your ticket. It’s designed for 2014-2018 models that have standard cast aluminum or stamped steel control arms. This kit helps you tackle trails and look good doing it.
What We Like:
- It gives you more ground clearance so you can drive over rough stuff without scraping your truck.
- The N3 struts and shocks are already loaded, making the lift simple. They also provide a comfortable ride, whether you’re on the road or off.
- It levels out your truck, so the front sits at the same height as the back. This gives it a more aggressive and balanced appearance.
- It works with your truck’s original suspension parts, which means reliable performance and an easier time installing it.
- The kit includes strong lift blocks and better protection for your CV axle boots. Plus, Rough Country offers a Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the kit aims for ease of installation, some users might find specific steps challenging without some mechanical experience.
- The 3.5-inch lift might require additional modifications for larger tire sizes, which are not included in this kit.
This lift kit offers a solid upgrade for your truck. It improves capability and style while keeping installation manageable.
3. Rough Country 7″ Lift Kit with Strut Spacers/N3 Rear Shocks for Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (2014-2018 w/Stock Cast Steel Control Arms)
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to give your 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 a serious upgrade? This Rough Country 7-Inch Lift Kit, complete with strut spacers and N3 rear shocks, transforms your truck’s look and capability. It’s designed to give you that aggressive stance and the ability to run bigger tires, making your truck stand out on the road and conquer off-road adventures.
What We Like:
- Gives your truck a bold, aggressive look with a 7-inch lift.
- Allows you to fit 35-inch tires on factory 18-20 inch wheels.
- Front strut spacers make lifting the front easy.
- Premium N3 rear shocks provide a smooth and controlled ride.
- The high-clearance crossmember design improves ground clearance.
- It enhances your truck’s off-road performance.
- Laser-cut parts and strong rear blocks ensure durability.
- Anti-axle wrap technology keeps your ride comfortable.
- Comes with everything needed for an easier installation.
- Backed by Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit is only compatible with models that have stock cast steel control arms.
This lift kit is a fantastic way to achieve a commanding presence and enhanced off-road capability for your Silverado or Sierra. It’s a comprehensive package that delivers both style and substance.
4. Rough Country 6″ Suspension Lift Kit with Strut Spacers/N3 Shocks for Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (2014-2018 w/Stock Cast Alu or Stamped Steel Control Arms)
Rating: 9.2/10
Ready to give your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 a serious upgrade? This Rough Country 6″ Suspension Lift Kit is the ticket! It’s designed to fit your 2014-2018 truck with stock control arms and lets you keep your factory 20-inch wheels. This kit is built to improve your truck’s look and its off-road capability.
What We Like:
- Keeps your factory 20-inch wheels for a clean look.
- N3 Struts and Shocks provide a smooth ride, on and off the road.
- Makes your truck sit level, looking tough and balanced.
- The crossmember design gives you more space under your truck for tough trails.
- Comes with a Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty from Rough Country.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit is specific to certain control arm types.
- Installation can be a bit challenging and might require extra tools.
This lift kit is a fantastic way to boost your truck’s stance and off-road readiness while keeping a comfortable ride. It offers a great blend of style and function for your Silverado or Sierra.
5. Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit with N3 Loaded Struts/N3 Rear Shocks for Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (2014-2016) – Silver Control Arms
Rating: 8.5/10
Ready to give your 2014-2016 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 a serious upgrade? This Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit is the ticket. It lifts your truck and gives you more room for bigger tires. Plus, it keeps your ride smooth, whether you’re cruising on the highway or hitting the trails. The kit comes with special struts and shocks that improve how your truck handles and feels, both on and off the pavement. You also get tough control arms that make installation a breeze.
What We Like:
- It lifts your truck and makes it look awesome.
- It lets you fit bigger tires easily.
- The ride stays comfortable, like a factory truck.
- The N3 struts and shocks really improve handling.
- The control arms are strong and easy to install.
- The rear lift blocks are super tough.
- You can easily put it back to the original height.
- It comes with a Limited Lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The silver color of the control arms might not match every truck’s style.
- While the ride is smooth, some users might want an even more aggressive off-road feel.
This kit is a fantastic way to transform your truck’s look and capability. It offers a great balance of performance and comfort for a wide range of driving.
Lift Kit for Your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500: The Ultimate Buying Guide
So, you’re looking to give your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 a tougher, more aggressive look and better off-road capability. A lift kit is the way to go! This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
Why Lift Your Sierra 1500?
Lifting your truck does more than just make it look cool. It gives you more ground clearance to clear obstacles on trails. It also lets you fit bigger, beefier tires, which improve traction and can handle rougher terrain. Plus, a lifted truck just has that awesome, commanding presence.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a lift kit, keep these important features in mind:
- Lift Height: This is how much higher your truck will sit. Common heights are 3 inches, 4 inches, or 6 inches. Taller lifts allow for bigger tires but can affect ride quality and fuel economy more.
- Type of Lift: There are a few main types:
- Spacers: These are the simplest and most affordable. They are placed above your factory suspension components. They’re easy to install but can sometimes make the ride a bit stiffer.
- Coilover Systems: These replace your factory shocks and springs with a complete, adjustable unit. They offer a better ride and more control, especially off-road. They are usually more expensive.
- Control Arm Lifts: These kits often include new, stronger control arms. They reposition your suspension for better geometry and can provide a smoother ride.
- Tire Clearance: Consider how big of a tire you want to run. A lift kit’s description will usually tell you the maximum tire size it can accommodate without rubbing.
- Alignment Correction: Some kits include parts to correct your truck’s alignment after lifting. This is crucial for proper tire wear and safe handling.
- Included Components: Check what comes in the box. Does it have all the necessary hardware, brackets, and shocks, or will you need to buy some parts separately?
Important Materials
The quality of the materials used in a lift kit really matters.
- Steel: Most lift kits use strong steel. Look for kits made from high-strength steel alloys. These are durable and can withstand the stresses of off-roading.
- Powder Coating: A good powder coat finish protects the steel from rust and corrosion. This keeps your lift kit looking good for years.
- Urethane Bushings: These are found in some kits. They help absorb vibrations and can improve ride comfort.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands that have a good track record for making quality truck parts. Research reviews from other Sierra 1500 owners.
- Manufacturing Process: Kits made with precision engineering and strict quality control will perform better and last longer.
- Design: A well-designed kit will maintain good suspension geometry, leading to a better ride and less stress on other truck parts.
- Installation Difficulty: While not directly a quality factor of the kit itself, a very complex installation can sometimes lead to errors if not done perfectly, affecting overall performance.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most people who lift their 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 do it for a few main reasons:
- Off-Roading: If you plan on hitting trails, mud, or uneven terrain, a lift kit is a must. It allows you to tackle tougher obstacles with confidence.
- Aesthetics: Many owners simply love the aggressive, lifted look. It makes their truck stand out from the crowd.
- Towing and Hauling: While not the primary reason, a lift can sometimes provide a bit more clearance for towing or hauling, especially if you plan on using larger tires.
A good lift kit can transform your Sierra 1500 into a more capable and stylish machine. Do your research, choose a reputable brand, and you’ll be enjoying your lifted truck in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does a lift kit for a 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 usually cost?
A: Prices can vary widely. Basic spacer lifts might start around $200-$400. More advanced kits with new shocks and control arms can range from $800 to $2000 or more.
Q: Will a lift kit affect my truck’s ride quality?
A: Yes, it can. Simpler spacer lifts might make the ride a bit firmer. More advanced kits, especially those with upgraded shocks or coilovers, are designed to maintain or even improve ride quality.
Q: Can I install a lift kit myself?
A: Some simpler kits can be installed by experienced DIYers. However, more complex kits often require specialized tools and knowledge. It’s often best to have a professional mechanic install it to ensure it’s done correctly.
Q: What is the maximum tire size I can fit on my lifted Sierra 1500?
A: This depends on the lift height and the specific kit. A 3-inch lift might fit up to 33-inch tires, while a 6-inch lift could accommodate 35-inch tires or larger. Always check the kit’s specifications.
Q: Will a lift kit affect my truck’s fuel economy?
A: Yes, lifting your truck and adding larger, heavier tires will generally reduce your fuel economy. This is because the engine has to work harder to move the larger mass and overcome increased wind resistance.
Q: Do I need to get an alignment after installing a lift kit?
A: Absolutely. Lifting a vehicle changes its suspension geometry. An alignment is crucial to ensure your tires wear evenly and your truck drives straight and safely.
Q: What’s the difference between a leveling kit and a lift kit?
A: A leveling kit primarily raises the front of your truck to match the height of the rear, giving it a level stance. A lift kit raises the entire truck, usually by a greater amount, to provide more ground clearance and allow for larger tires.
Q: How long does a lift kit typically last?
A: With proper maintenance and quality components, a lift kit can last for many years, often the lifetime of the vehicle. However, heavy off-road use can wear parts faster.
Q: Can a lift kit affect my truck’s towing capacity?
A: While the lift kit itself doesn’t directly change the towing capacity rating of your truck, using larger tires can sometimes affect the load rating of your wheels and tires. Always check your vehicle’s manual and the specifications of your new components.
Q: Should I consider shocks and struts when buying a lift kit?
A: Yes, many lift kits include new shocks and struts, or are designed to work with specific aftermarket ones. Upgraded shocks and struts can significantly improve ride quality and handling, especially after lifting.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.