Mid-Tier Lift with UCAs — 2.5"–3" Lift ($1,000–$2,500)
The mid-tier lift on the 4Runner is where KDSS compatibility becomes the deciding factor — Icon Stage 2, Dobinsons MRR, and OME BP-51 all have KDSS-compatible shock valving options, but you must order the correct variant for your trim.
At 2.5"–3" of lift, the 4Runner's IFS geometry requires the same fix as the Tacoma: upper control arms to correct caster, restore CV shaft angle, and provide more droop travel. The OEM UCAs on the 5th gen 4Runner are aluminum-bodied units that are not adjustable — at 2.5" they push the ball joint to an angle that causes premature wear. Aftermarket UCAs restore the correct geometry for lifted height.
KDSS compatibility is the critical specification for this tier. KDSS-equipped 4Runners (Trail, TRD Pro, some Limited) use hydraulic sway bar cylinders that require specific shock damping rates to function correctly. Installing a standard shock on a KDSS-equipped 4Runner compresses the KDSS circuit improperly, causing the sway bar to bind or the hydraulic lines to be over-pressurized on articulation. Icon's CDCV (Continuous Damping Control Valve) coilovers and Fox's remote reservoir units are specifically valved for KDSS 4Runners. Check the product description for "KDSS compatible" before ordering any shock or coilover kit.
For non-KDSS 4Runners, the mid-tier lift is more straightforward — any of the listed kits work cleanly. Icon Stage 2 is the most complete package (UCAs, coilovers, rear shocks, add-a-leaf). Dobinsons MRR offers remote reservoir coilovers at a competitive price with excellent tunability. OME BP-51 is the premium choice with internal bypass damping that handles rough terrain exceptionally well at this price point.
UCAs for the 4Runner from Total Chaos ($949), Camburg ($899), or Icon ($749) all fit correctly and are meaningfully better than OEM. For a trail-focused build, Total Chaos billet UCAs are the most durable; Icon UCAs are the best value.
Steps
- Confirm KDSS vs non-KDSS configuration; order KDSS-compatible shocks if applicable
- Lift and support front of vehicle; remove front wheels
- Disconnect OEM front strut assembly (sway bar end link, brake line bracket, strut-to-knuckle bolts, upper mount)
- Disconnect OEM upper control arm from frame and spindle — use ball joint separator on spindle connection
- Install new UCAs: torque frame bolts snug (final torque at ride height); connect new ball joint to spindle and torque
- Install new coilover; set height collar per manufacturer spec for target lift
- Reconnect sway bar end link and brake line; reinstall wheel
- Repeat opposite side
- Lift and support rear; remove rear wheels; support axle
- Disconnect rear sway bar end links
- Replace rear shocks; install add-a-leaf or full rear spring per kit instructions
- Reassemble rear; torque at ride height
- Lower vehicle; bounce to settle; perform final torque on all suspension fasteners at ride height
- Drive to alignment shop — request 4Runner-specific caster and camber specs for lifted height
Why it works
- KDSS-compatible shock options allow full mid-lift on Trail and TRD Pro trims without disabling KDSS
- UCAs correct the geometry that makes everything else work better — steering feel, tire wear, CV longevity
- Icon Stage 2 is the most complete all-in-one kit for this tier — no compatibility guesswork
- OME BP-51 delivers bypass-style damping at a price point below most US boutique shocks
- 285/75R16 (33") tires fit cleanly on most 4Runners at 2.5"–3" lift without trimming
Trade-offs
- KDSS compatibility error is expensive to fix — double-check spec before ordering
- Ball joint press required for UCA swap — not an optional tool
- Requires professional alignment after install — budget $100–$150
- Dobinsons MRR valving is firm; less comfortable on pavement than Icon or OME for daily drivers
- 3" lift on a KDSS 4Runner reduces KDSS effectiveness somewhat — the system works best at stock-adjacent heights
Tools required
- floor jack
- jack stands
- torque wrench
- socket set
- ball joint press
- spring compressor
- breaker bar
- pry bar
Parts
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Icon Vehicle Dynamics Stage 2 Complete Lift Kit (5th Gen 4Runner) | Icon Vehicle Dynamics | ~$1299 |
| Dobinsons MRR Coilovers + UCAs Kit (5th Gen 4Runner) | Dobinsons | ~$1399 |
| Old Man Emu BP-51 Bypass Shock Kit (5th Gen 4Runner) | Old Man Emu | ~$1499 |
| Icon Vehicle Dynamics Billet Upper Control Arms (5th Gen 4Runner) | Icon Vehicle Dynamics | ~$749 |
Sources
Related
- Budget Lift Kit — Bilstein 5100 and Spacers (≤$600)
- Expedition Lift — Long-Travel and Dual Remote Reservoir ($2,500+)
- All Toyota 4Runner guides & tools
- Browse the full DIY database
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. How we source guides. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.