Are Spacer Lifts Bad?

Spacer lifts tend to get a bad reputation in some off-road circles—but like most things in the suspension world, the truth isn’t that simple. Spacer lifts aren’t inherently bad, but whether they’re the right solution depends on your goals, your vehicle, and how much lift you’re after.

Let’s break it down by digging into why you'd run a spacer and when it makes sense to choose over new shocks and springs.

🔧 Front Spacer Lifts: Quick Clearance with a Catch

Front spacers are one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to add lift to the front of your vehicle. For platforms like the Nissan Frontier, this is often the first step for clearing slightly larger tires or leveling out factory rake.

The benefit is obvious:

Simple install
Immediate ground clearance
Retains factory ride (at first)

But there’s a trade-off:
Spacer lifts do not increase shock travel; they simply reposition the coilover or strut assembly downward. On vehicles like the Nissan Frontier, which utilize a standalone bump stop on the control arm, this modification will result in the shock bottoming out before the bump stop engages. Over time, this will cause damage to the shocks, springs, and potentially the control arms

The fix?
This is where bump stop spacers come into play. By limiting how far the suspension can compress, you protect your shock from bottoming out. When properly paired, a front spacer + bump stop spacer combo can be an effective, budget-friendly solution.

So... Are Spacer Lifts Bad?

Not at all—when done right.
They’re an affordable, simple solution for mild lifts or leveling kits. But they’re not a one-size-fits-all fix, and there are real limitations you need to respect.

At Bushmaster 4x4, we always encourage choosing the right lift for your goals:

For mild weekend warriors and daily drivers? Spacer lifts can be perfect.
For aggressive off-road use consider upgrading shocks.

Looking to Build it Right?

We’ve tested and refined lift solutions specifically for the Nissan Frontier, including spacer-based kits that preserve ride quality and protect your components.

Explore our Lift Kits at our Store
Whether you're after a budget-friendly spacer lift or a complete suspension solution, we’ve got the parts—and the real-world insight—to guide your build the right way.