The Mazda CX-5 has garnered a significant following among enthusiasts for its versatility, elegant design, and performance. But what if you want to take your CX-5’s capabilities to the next level? A lift kit might just be the answer. This comprehensive guide aims to dive deep into the world of lift kits specifically designed for the Mazda CX-5, discussing everything from benefits and parts required to installation steps.
What is a Lift Kit?
A lift kit is an aftermarket vehicle modification that elevates the height of your vehicle, often improving its off-road performance. For SUVs like the Mazda CX-5, a lift kit can enhance ground clearance, create room for larger tires, and improve overall aesthetics.
Types of Lift Kits
There are several types of lift kits available for the Mazda CX-5, and they are generally classified into:
- Spacer Lift Kits: These are the most basic type, designed to separate the factory struts from the vehicle’s chassis.
- Suspension Lift Kits: These replace your vehicle’s entire suspension system, offering substantial gains in off-road performance.
- Body Lift Kits: These kits only elevate the body of the vehicle, not affecting the suspension or performance.
Benefits of Installing a Lift Kit on Your Mazda CX-5
Improved Ground Clearance
The most immediate benefit of installing a lift kit is the increased ground clearance, which can be advantageous for off-road excursions.
Better Off-Road Capabilities
A lifted Mazda CX-5 can handle challenging terrains better than its stock counterpart. The lifted suspension allows for more give, which means a smoother ride over rocks, mud, and uneven trails.
Enhanced Aesthetics
The elevated stature gives your CX-5 a more aggressive and rugged look, setting it apart from stock models.
Increased Towing Capacity
Some lift kits can also improve the vehicle’s towing capacity, especially when combined with other performance-enhancing modifications like beefier tires and improved suspension systems.
More Space for Larger Tires
A lift kit provides the necessary room to accommodate larger, more aggressive tires that offer better grip and durability.
Parts Required for Installation
The following are the essential parts you’ll need for installing a lift kit in your Mazda CX-5:
- Lift Blocks/Jack stands : Elevate the rear of your vehicle.
- Strut Spacers: For front suspension elevation.
- Extended U-bolts: To clamp the lift blocks to the existing leaf springs.
- Control Arms: For models that require additional suspension geometry adjustments.
- Sway Bar Links: Longer sway bar links to maintain handling characteristics.
- Extended Shocks: Longer, often performance-oriented, shocks to replace the stock ones.
- Hardware Kit: Including nuts, bolts, and other fasteners.
- Special Tools: Coil spring compressors, torque wrench, etc.
Installation Steps
Pre-Installation
- Initial Check: Inspect your vehicle’s condition and read through the installation manual provided with your lift kit.
- Tool Gathering: Make sure you have all necessary tools and parts.
- Safety Measures: Always wear appropriate safety gear and ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface.
Installation
- Raise the Vehicle: Use a hydraulic jack to elevate your CX-5, placing jack stands under the frame.
- Remove Wheels: Remove the wheels to gain access to the suspension.
- Disconnect Sway Bars & Shocks: Detach any components that will interfere with the lift kit installation.
- Install Spacers and Blocks: Follow the manual to install strut spacers at the front and lift blocks at the back.
- Reconnect Components: Reattach the sway bars, shocks, and any other components.
- Align the Suspension: Proper alignment is essential after installing a lift kit.
- Install New Tires: If you are using larger tires, install them.
- Test Drive: Conduct a short test drive to make sure everything feels right.
Post-Installation
- Retighten Bolts: After a few miles of driving, it’s recommended to retighten all the bolts.
- Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the lift kit components for wear and tear or loose bolts.
Maintenance and Aftercare
Once installed, the lift kit will require periodic inspections to ensure all components are in top shape. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines on routine checks and maintenance is crucial for the long-term performance of your lifted Mazda CX-5.
Conclusion
A lift kit can substantially alter your Mazda CX-5’s capabilities, making it more versatile and rugged for off-road adventures. However, selecting the right kit and installing it correctly is crucial for ensuring both safety and performance. We hope this guide serves as a comprehensive resource for your journey into the world of lift kits for your Mazda CX-5.