Does your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 feel a little… low? Maybe you dream of tackling tougher trails, or perhaps you just love the aggressive, commanding stance a lifted truck offers. But when it comes to choosing a lift kit, the sheer number of choices can feel overwhelming. You want bigger tires, better ground clearance, and a look that turns heads, but where do you even begin?
Finding the perfect lift kit for your Sierra 1500 involves more than just picking the tallest option. You’ll face questions about lift height, suspension types, and compatibility. The wrong choice could lead to a bumpy ride, alignment issues, or even damage to your truck. It’s a big decision, and we get it. You want your truck to perform as good as it looks.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. By the end of this post, you’ll understand the different types of lift kits available for your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500, what to look for, and how to select the one that best fits your needs and budget. We’ll break down the jargon and help you confidently take your Sierra to the next level.
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 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: 8.7/10
Ready to give your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 a tougher look and better off-road ability? This Rough Country 3.5″ Suspension Lift Kit is designed to do just that. It lifts your truck to clear bigger obstacles and gives it a more aggressive stance. The kit includes everything you need to get your truck up and ready for adventure, without changing out too many of your truck’s original parts.
What We Like:
- It gives you more space under your truck, so you can drive over rougher ground.
- The new struts and shocks make the ride smooth on the road and comfortable off-road.
- It makes your truck sit level, so the front isn’t lower than the back. This looks much cooler.
- It uses many of your truck’s original parts, which makes it simpler to put on.
- Rough Country backs this kit with a lifetime warranty, so you can trust it’s built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit is specifically for trucks with certain types of control arms. Make sure yours match.
- While the N3 shocks are good, some drivers might want even more advanced shock options for extreme off-roading.
If you want to enhance your truck’s look and off-road performance without a complicated setup, this kit is a solid choice. It offers a great balance of features and value.
2. 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: 8.9/10
Ready to give your 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 a serious upgrade? This Rough Country 7-Inch Lift Kit is designed to do just that. It gives your truck a bold, aggressive look and lets you fit big 35-inch tires on your factory 18-20 inch wheels. You’ll get a leveled stance that turns heads wherever you go.
What We Like:
- It gives your truck a cool, aggressive look with a 7-inch lift.
- You can run big 35-inch tires on your factory wheels.
- The front strut spacers make lifting the front easy.
- The N3 rear shocks provide a smooth and controlled ride on different roads.
- The high-clearance crossmember design gives you more ground clearance for off-roading.
- It’s built tough with laser-cut parts and strong rear blocks.
- The kit includes everything you need for installation.
- Rough Country offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit only works with trucks that have stock cast steel control arms.
- Installation might be easier with a friend, as lifting a truck can be challenging.
This lift kit is a fantastic way to improve your truck’s look and capability. It’s built to last and comes with everything you need for a great upgrade.
3. 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: 9.3/10
Ready to give your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 (2014-2018) a serious upgrade in looks and capability? This Rough Country 6″ Suspension Lift Kit is your ticket to a more aggressive stance and better off-road performance. It’s designed to work with your truck’s stock cast aluminum or stamped steel control arms, making installation smoother. Plus, it keeps your factory 20-inch wheels looking great while giving you that much-desired lifted appearance.
What We Like:
- It lets you use your factory 20-inch wheels, so your truck still looks familiar but better.
- The N3 lifted struts and shocks give you a smooth and comfy ride, whether you’re on the highway or hitting the trails.
- It makes your truck sit level, getting rid of that factory nose-down look for a more powerful appearance.
- The high-clearance crossmember design means you can tackle tougher terrain without worrying about hitting obstacles.
- Rough Country backs this kit with a Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty, so you’re protected.
What Could Be Improved:
- The kit is specifically for trucks with stock cast aluminum or stamped steel control arms, so it won’t fit all models.
- While it’s a great lift, some more advanced off-roaders might want even more ground clearance than this offers.
This Rough Country lift kit is a fantastic way to boost your truck’s style and off-road readiness. It balances performance with a clean look, making it a solid choice for many truck owners.
4. 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: 9.5/10
Ready to give your 2014-2016 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 a serious upgrade? This Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit is here to help. It lifts your truck and gives it a more aggressive look. You’ll also get more room for bigger tires. Plus, it keeps your ride smooth on the road and when you go off-road.
What We Like:
- It lifts and levels your truck, giving it a cool, new stance.
- You can fit bigger tires, which is great for off-roading or just a tougher look.
- The N3 Loaded Struts and N3 Rear Shocks use nitrogen gas. This makes your ride better and handles bumps smoothly.
- The forged upper control arms are super strong. They come with special ball joints that move easily and last a long time.
- Installation is made simpler with the pre-installed ball joints.
- The rear lift blocks are made of strong steel, better than cast ones.
- This kit is fully reversible, so you can go back to the original height if you want.
- It comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the ride is smooth, some users might want an even softer feel for extreme comfort.
- The “Silver Control Arms” might not match every truck’s color scheme perfectly.
This Rough Country lift kit offers a fantastic way to improve your truck’s look and capability. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a better driving experience.
5. Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit for 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 4WD – 22330
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to give your 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500 4WD a serious upgrade? The Rough Country 5″ Lift Kit (model 22330) offers a fantastic way to boost your truck’s look and capability. This kit lets you fit beefy 33-inch tires while keeping your factory 20-inch wheels. It also levels out the front of your truck, giving it a more aggressive stance and better off-road readiness. You’ll notice improved ground clearance thanks to the high-clearance crossmember, which helps you tackle obstacles with confidence. Rough Country uses laser-cut components for a precise fit and lasting durability. The rear of the kit features heavy-duty blocks made for strength, outperforming typical cast blocks.
What We Like:
- Fits 33″ tires on your factory 20″ wheels for a tough look.
- Levels the front of your truck for a clean, aggressive stance.
- Increases ground clearance for better off-road performance.
- Precision-made parts ensure a perfect fit and long-lasting use.
- Heavy-duty rear blocks provide extra strength and reliability.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some mechanical skill; professional help may be needed.
- While it fits 33″ tires, larger tires might require additional modifications.
This lift kit is a solid choice for truck owners wanting a more imposing presence and enhanced off-road capability without breaking the bank. It’s a great way to personalize your truck and get it ready for adventure.
Get Your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Ready to Roam: The Ultimate Lift Kit Buying Guide
Thinking about giving your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 a boost? A lift kit can transform your truck, giving it a tougher look and more capability off-road. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect lift kit for your Sierra.
What to Look for in a Lift Kit
When you’re shopping for a lift kit, focus on a few key things.
Lift Height
This is how much taller your truck will be. Common heights are 2 inches, 3 inches, or 6 inches. A smaller lift is great for bigger tires and a slightly tougher stance. A taller lift lets you fit massive tires and conquer serious off-road trails.
Type of Lift Kit
There are a few main types:
- Spacers: These are the simplest and usually cheapest. They add height by putting a spacer between your suspension parts.
- Coilover Systems: These replace your factory shocks and springs. They offer better ride quality and more adjustability.
- Control Arm Kits: These kits often come with new upper and lower control arms. They help keep your suspension geometry correct after lifting.
- Strut Extension Kits: Similar to spacers, but they extend your existing struts.
Brand Reputation
Stick with well-known brands. Companies that specialize in truck suspension often make the best kits. They have experience and test their products thoroughly.
Included Components
Check what comes in the box. Does it have everything you need, like new shocks, control arms, or brake lines? Some kits might require you to buy extra parts separately.
Materials Matter: What Your Lift Kit is Made Of
The materials used in your lift kit affect its strength and how long it will last.
Steel
Most lift kits use strong steel. Look for kits made from high-quality steel that is treated to resist rust. This ensures your kit can handle rough terrain and weather.
Aluminum
Some parts, like spacers, might be made from strong aluminum. Aluminum is lighter than steel but still very durable.
Bushings and Ball Joints
These small but important parts connect different suspension pieces. Good quality rubber or polyurethane bushings and strong ball joints will give you a smoother ride and last longer.
Quality: What Makes a Lift Kit Great (or Not So Great)
Several things can make a lift kit perform better or worse.
Durability
A good lift kit is built to last. It should withstand bumps, jolts, and the weight of your truck. Kits with thicker metal and robust construction are usually better.
Ride Quality
Some lift kits can make your ride feel bumpy or stiff. The best kits are designed to maintain a comfortable ride, especially if they include upgraded shocks or coilovers.
Ease of Installation
While lifting a truck is a big job, some kits are easier to install than others. Kits with clear instructions and well-designed parts will save you time and frustration.
Alignment Compatibility
After lifting, you’ll need to get an alignment. A quality lift kit makes it easier for alignment shops to get your truck’s wheels lined up correctly.
User Experience and Use Cases: How You’ll Use Your Lifted Sierra
Think about how you plan to use your lifted truck. This will help you pick the right lift.
Daily Driving and Looks
If you want your Sierra to look more aggressive and fit slightly larger tires for a better stance, a 2-3 inch lift is a great choice. It usually doesn’t change the ride quality too much and keeps your truck practical for everyday use.
Off-Road Adventures
For serious off-roading, camping trips, or tackling rough trails, a 4-6 inch lift is ideal. This height allows for much larger tires, giving you better ground clearance and the ability to drive over obstacles.
Towing and Hauling
If you tow a trailer or carry heavy loads, a lift kit can sometimes affect your truck’s handling. Some kits are designed to handle these tasks better than others. Check reviews for feedback on towing with a lifted truck.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lift Kits for Your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500
Q: How much does a lift kit for a 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 typically cost?
A: Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for simple spacer kits to over a thousand dollars for complete suspension systems.
Q: Will a lift kit affect my truck’s fuel economy?
A: Yes, lifting your truck and adding larger tires can decrease your fuel economy because the engine has to work harder.
Q: Can I install a lift kit myself?
A: Some basic kits can be installed by experienced DIYers, but most require specialized tools and knowledge. Professional installation is often recommended.
Q: What size tires can I fit with a lift kit?
A: This depends on the lift height. A 2-3 inch lift might allow for 33-inch tires, while a 6-inch lift can accommodate 35-inch tires or larger.
Q: Do I need to upgrade my shocks with a lift kit?
A: It’s highly recommended, especially with taller lifts. Upgraded shocks provide better performance and ride quality.
Q: Will a lift kit affect my truck’s warranty?
A: Modifying your suspension can potentially void parts of your truck’s warranty related to the drivetrain and suspension.
Q: How often do I need to get an alignment after lifting?
A: You should get an alignment immediately after installing a lift kit and then check it regularly, usually every 6-12 months.
Q: Can I still tow a trailer with a lifted Sierra?
A: Yes, but you might need to adjust your trailer’s hitch height. Some lift kits are better suited for towing than others.
Q: Are there any downsides to lifting my truck?
A: Besides potential fuel economy loss and warranty concerns, a higher center of gravity can slightly affect handling on curves.
Q: What’s the difference between a body lift and a suspension lift?
A: A suspension lift raises the entire frame of the truck by changing suspension parts. A body lift adds spacers between the truck’s body and the frame, allowing for larger tires without changing suspension performance.
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.