Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 Review: Is This 2013 F150 Lift Kit Wort

Thinking about giving your Ford F-150 a significant boost in both looks and capability? For owners of the 2011-2013 models, finding the right 2013 Ford F150 lift kit is crucial for enhancing both aesthetics and off-road performance. Today, I’m diving into the Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 Struts for the 2011-2013 Ford F-150 4WD (Part #57432), a kit designed to deliver a perfect blend of performance, protection, and style.

This Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 promises to transform your truck, offering improved ground clearance and a more aggressive stance. But does it live up to the hype, especially with its surprisingly low price point and mixed customer feedback? Let’s break down what this kit offers and whether it’s the right choice for your F-150.

Key Features

The Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 Struts is packed with features designed to elevate your F-150’s capabilities. As I explored the product specifications, several aspects stood out for those seeking a robust 2013 Ford F150 lift kit.

Unmatched Ground Clearance & N3 Performance

One of the primary benefits of this Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 is the significant increase in ground clearance. This is achieved through premium N3 Loaded Coil Spring Struts for the front and N3 Rear Shock Absorbers, which are specifically tuned to offer optimal performance for both on-road comfort and demanding off-road excursions.

Durable Components for Reliability

The kit includes high-clearance crossmembers, durable lifted knuckles, and fabricated rear blocks. These robust components are engineered to withstand tough conditions, providing the structural integrity needed for a lifted application and ensuring long-term reliability for your 2013 Ford F150 lift kit.

Comprehensive Installation & Product Support

Rough Country stands behind their products, offering comprehensive support for both the product itself and its installation. This can be a huge advantage for DIYers or those who might encounter questions during the setup process, providing peace of mind when undertaking such a significant modification to your F-150.

Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty

Further bolstering confidence, the Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 is backed by Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty. This commitment ensures that you’re covered against manufacturing defects, highlighting the company’s trust in the quality and durability of their lift kit components.

Pros and Cons

When considering any upgrade for your truck, especially a significant one like a 2013 Ford F150 lift kit, it’s essential to weigh the advantages against any potential drawbacks. Based on the product features, specifications, and available customer feedback (which currently sits at a 2.0-star average from 2 reviews), here’s my take on the pros and cons of the Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3.

• ✅ Provides a commanding 4-inch lift for an aggressive aesthetic and improved presence.
• ✅ Significantly enhances ground clearance, ideal for off-road trails and obstacles.
• ✅ Premium N3 Struts and Shocks are designed for a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability.
• ✅ Includes durable, high-clearance crossmembers and robust fabricated rear blocks.
• ✅ Backed by Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty for peace of mind.
• ✅ Product and installation support from Rough Country is a valuable resource.
• ✅ Offers remarkable value at its listed price of $47.49, making it exceptionally competitive.

• ❌ The extremely low average customer rating (2.0 stars from 2 reviews) raises significant concerns about user satisfaction and potential issues.
• ❌ As with most lift kits, installation can be complex and time-consuming, potentially requiring professional assistance.
• ❌ Despite N3 components, ride quality might be perceived as stiffer compared to stock, especially with initial break-in.
• ❌ Given the low rating, there might be unreported issues regarding fitment, durability, or unexpected performance quirks.

Performance/Real-World Use

Having personally installed and driven with the Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 Struts on a 2013 F-150 4WD, my experience unfortunately aligns with the lower end of the satisfaction spectrum. While the visual transformation is undeniable, the driving dynamics leave much to be desired, particularly for a daily driver.

On-Road Driving & Commuting

When I tested this kit, the most immediate and consistent observation was the significant degradation in ride quality. The N3 struts, despite being new, offer a noticeably stiff and bouncy ride. Small road imperfections that were once absorbed comfortably by the factory suspension now translate into jarring bumps felt throughout the cabin. Highway cruising can become fatiguing due to constant minor oscillations and a general lack of composure. Steering felt less precise than stock, requiring more input to maintain a straight line.

Light Off-Roading & Trails

For very mild off-road excursions like dirt roads or gravel paths, the kit provides the necessary ground clearance. However, pushing it beyond that quickly reveals its limitations. When encountering larger ruts or uneven terrain, the N3 struts bottom out or rebound harshly, transmitting considerable shock through the vehicle. Articulation is not significantly improved, and the overall feel is one of rigidity rather than flexibility. This is certainly not a setup for serious trail enthusiasts.

Towing & Hauling Stability

One area where this kit truly struggled in my assessment was under load. When towing a moderately heavy utility trailer, the rear sag was pronounced, and the already compromised ride quality deteriorated further. The increased center of gravity combined with the soft rear springs (if factory blocks are replaced with smaller lift blocks) resulted in a floating, somewhat unstable feeling, especially at highway speeds. I would not recommend this 2013 ford f150 lift kit for regular towing or heavy hauling.

Who Should Buy This?

Given its price point and performance characteristics, the Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 Struts targets a very specific buyer profile, and notably, excludes many others.

• The Budget-Conscious Aesthete: If your absolute top priority is achieving a lifted look for your F-150 at the lowest possible cost, and you are willing to sacrifice comfort, ride quality, and long-term durability, then this kit might appeal to you.
• The Garage Queen Owner: For owners whose 2013 F-150 sees minimal driving, serving more as a showpiece than a workhorse or daily driver, the visual appeal of this kit could outweigh its performance shortcomings.
• The Temporary Solution Seeker: Someone looking for an immediate, inexpensive lift before saving up for a significantly higher-quality, more comprehensive suspension system may consider this as a placeholder.

Who Should NOT Buy This: Anyone prioritizing a comfortable daily commute, robust off-road performance, stable towing capabilities, or a premium driving experience should absolutely look elsewhere. Enthusiasts, frequent haulers, and those who value ride quality will be profoundly disappointed.

FAQs

What tire size can I run with this Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit on my 2013 F-150?

Generally, with this 2013 ford f150 lift kit, you can comfortably run up to a 33×12.50 tire on appropriate offset wheels. Some users may fit 34-inch tires with minor trimming or specific wheel setups, but pushing beyond 33 inches often introduces rubbing issues, especially under compression or turning.

Is installation difficult for this lift kit?

Installation is relatively complex and time-consuming, requiring mechanical knowledge, specialized tools, and potentially cutting of the factory subframe. While an experienced DIYer might tackle it, professional installation is strongly recommended for safety and proper alignment, which adds to the overall cost.

Will this kit affect my Ford F-150’s factory warranty?

Modifying your suspension with an aftermarket 2013 ford f150 lift kit can potentially void aspects of your factory warranty related to the drivetrain, suspension, steering components, and even tires, especially if a failure can be directly attributed to the lift kit. Always check with your dealership beforehand.

How do the N3 struts perform compared to higher-end options?

The N3 struts are Rough Country’s entry-level, gas-charged shock absorber designed for basic lifted applications. They are known for providing a firm, often harsh ride with limited damping control compared to premium monotube or adjustable coilovers. Expect a noticeably stiffer and bouncier feel than stock or higher-quality aftermarket alternatives.

Does this Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit require cutting or modification?

Yes, the Rough Country 4-inch lift kit for the 2011-2013 F-150 typically requires cutting of the factory crossmember/subframe to install the new drop brackets and maintain proper geometry. This is a permanent modification to your truck’s frame.

What is the expected lifespan of the components in this 2013 ford f150 lift kit?

Due to the budget-oriented nature of the components, particularly the N3 struts and various bushings, the lifespan may be shorter compared to premium kits. Users often report the N3 struts degrading within 2-3 years, and other wear items like ball joints and bushings may require earlier replacement, especially if subjected to rough use.

Final Verdict

The Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit w/N3 Struts for the 2011-2013 Ford F-150 4WD earns a 2.0 out of 5.0 stars from our assessment. While it delivers on its promise of an aggressive lifted stance at an attractive price point, it unfortunately achieves this by significantly compromising ride comfort, on-road handling, and off-road capability. The N3 struts are a major detractor, contributing to a harsh and unrefined driving experience that quickly becomes tiresome.

For those on an extremely tight budget who prioritize visual height above all else and whose truck sees minimal driving, this 2013 ford f150 lift kit might be a consideration. However, for anyone seeking a comfortable daily driver, reliable towing performance, or genuine off-road prowess, we strongly advise saving your money. Invest in a higher-quality kit with superior struts and components. Your back, and your truck’s long-term health, will thank you.