There is nothing quite like driving a custom rig through the Kansas City metro. Whether you are navigating traffic on I-35, heading down to Arrowhead for a weekend tailgate, or taking things off-road in the rugged Missouri countryside, a lifted truck gives you the stance, visibility, and performance you need.
However, shopping for used lifted trucks requires a completely different approach than buying a standard, factory-spec vehicle. If a lift kit or aftermarket modification isn't installed correctly, a dream truck can quickly turn into a mechanical headache.
Before you sign the paperwork, use this expert guide to inspect a custom build like a pro.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Lifted Truck
When looking at custom trucks in Kansas City, you want to ensure the modifications enhance the truck’s capability rather than compromising its safety or longevity. Here are the top four areas to inspect during your visit to the lot:
1. Verify the Quality of the Lift Kit
Not all lift kits are created equal. Ask the dealer or check the vehicle history to find out what brand was used. Top-tier manufacturers design components that maintain structural integrity. Check if it is a complete suspension lift or a simpler body lift/leveling kit. A quality suspension lift will feature updated control arms, steering knuckles, and brake line extensions rather than just cheap spacers stacked on stock parts.
2. Inspect the Steering and Suspension Geometry
When a truck is lifted, the angles of the driveshaft, CV joints, and steering components change. Peer underneath the truck and check the following:
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CV Boots: Look for cracks, tears, or leaking grease caused by overly steep angles.
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Bushings and Ball Joints: Ensure the rubber or polyurethane parts aren’t dry-rotted or crushed.
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Alignment: Take a look at the front tires. If the inside or outside edges are wearing down unevenly, the suspension geometry or alignment is out of spec.
3. Test the Braking and Acceleration
Oversized mud-terrain or all-terrain tires look incredible, but they add significant "unsprung weight." This means the engine and the brakes have to work harder to move and stop the vehicle. During your test drive on KC streets, pay close attention to brake pedal feel. The truck should stop straight without spongy performance or shuddering.
4. Check for Wheel Well Rubbing
Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, and then all the way to the right while the truck is parked. Get out and look inside the wheel wells. Do the tires clear the bumper, fenders, and frame? If you see shiny, worn spots on the metal or plastic lining, it means the tire and wheel offset combination is rubbing during tight turns-a major annoyance for daily driving.
The Pre-Built Advantage vs. Modding It Yourself
Many drivers wonder if it is better to buy a factory truck and modify it themselves or buy a pre-built custom rig.
Choosing a quality, pre-owned truck that has already been professionally customized is almost always the smarter financial move. High-quality suspension kits, heavy-duty wheels, and 35-inch off-road tires can easily cost several thousand dollars before you factor in specialized labor and alignment costs. Buying pre-built allows you to roll the value of those upgrades directly into the vehicle purchase price.
Furthermore, securing lifted truck financing in Kansas City is much simpler when you choose a reputable dealership. Lenders evaluate the total book value of the vehicle on the lot, making it easier to lock in competitive rates on a complete package rather than trying to finance aftermarket parts out-of-pocket later on.
Find Your Next Custom Truck at Northtowne Mitsubishi
At Northtowne Mitsubishi, we take the guesswork out of shopping for custom vehicles. Every pre-owned truck on our lot undergoes a rigorous multi-point safety and mechanical inspection by our expert technicians, ensuring that every lift, wheel upgrade, and accessory is ready for the road.
If you are ready to upgrade your ride, explore our current selection of high-quality lifted trucks in Kansas City. From heavy-duty workhorses to trail-ready beasts, we have the inventory and the flexible financing options to get you behind the wheel today.