When customers start exploring suspension upgrades, one of the most common questions we hear is:

“What’s the difference between a lift kit, replacement struts, and adjustable struts — and why does it matter?”

The short answer: they all raise your vehicle, but they don’t do it the same way, and they don’t drive the same afterward.

Here’s a clear breakdown to help you choose the right option for your Tahoe, Yukon, Silverado, or similar full-size SUV.

Option 1: Traditional Lift Kits (Hardware-Based)

This is what most people think of when they hear “lift kit.”

What it is:

• Uses brackets, spacers, or hardware to reposition factory suspension components
• Keeps your original struts and shocks in place
• Raises ride height by changing geometry, not improving suspension quality

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost
• Works well on low-mileage vehicles
• Gets the vehicle higher visually

Cons:

• Factory struts continue to wear at the same rate
• Ride quality often stays the same — or worsens
• Less control over fine-tuning height or ride feel
• Not ideal for vehicles with higher mileage

Best for:

Budget-focused builds where appearance matters more than ride quality or long-term suspension performance.

Option 2: Replacement Struts (Non-Adjustable)

This is a step up from a basic lift kit.

What it is:

• Factory struts are fully replaced with new struts
• Often paired with a lift or leveling kit
• Ride quality improves compared to worn factory components

Pros:

• Fresh suspension components
• Improved damping and control
• Better longevity than reusing stock struts

Cons:

• Ride height is fixed
• No flexibility to fine-tune stance
• If the height isn’t perfect, adjustments require additional parts or rework

Best for:

Drivers who want a cleaner ride than stock and a fixed lift height with minimal future changes.

Option 3: Adjustable Struts / Adjustable Coilover Struts (Recommended)

This is the most refined and professional solution — and what we most often recommend for modern SUVs.

What it is:

• Complete replacement of factory struts
• Built-in height adjustability (typically 2.0”–3.0”+ range)
• Engineered specifically for lifted applications
• Often paired with matched rear lift components

Pros:

• Best ride quality and suspension control
• Height can be dialed in precisely
• Adjustments can be made later without replacing parts
• Better handling at highway speeds
• Reduces long-term wear on CV axles, ball joints, and steering components

Cons:

• Higher initial cost than basic kits
• Requires professional setup and alignment

Best for:

Daily-driven SUVs, highway travel, long-term ownership, and customers who want it done right the first time.

Why Adjustable Struts Make the Most Sense

Vehicles like the Tahoe are heavy, powerful, and often driven at highway speeds. Simply forcing extra height through hardware can work — but it doesn’t optimize how the vehicle drives.

Adjustable struts allow us to:

• Compensate for larger tires
• Balance front and rear suspension geometry
• Tune stance visually and mechanically
• Preserve ride quality while gaining height

In short: you get the look without sacrificing control or comfort.

The Southern Ride Customs Approach

We don’t sell “one-size-fits-all” lift solutions.

Every recommendation is based on:

• Mileage
• Tire size goals
• Wheel size plans (now or later)
• Driving style (daily, highway, off-road, towing)
• Long-term reliability

That’s why adjustable struts are often the smartest investment — especially on newer or higher-mileage SUVs.