The 2022 Ford Bronco Badlands is a beast straight from the factory, engineered to tackle rugged trails with its robust Sasquatch Package and advanced 4×4 systems. But for off-road enthusiasts craving even more capability—whether to conquer rocky inclines, plow through deep mud, or simply stand out in a crowd of stock SUVs—the right lift kit and tire combination can unlock its full potential. This guide dives into the best lift kits and tire sizes tailored for the Badlands trim, balancing practicality with aggressive performance. From suspension upgrades that preserve ride quality to oversized tires that demand strategic modifications, we’ll explore how to transform your Bronco into a trail-dominating machine without sacrificing daily drivability.
Understanding the Bronco Badlands’ Stock Setup: Why Modify?
Before diving into modifications, it’s crucial to understand what the Badlands offers straight from Ford. Equipped with a factory-installed Sasquatch Package, this trim includes 35-inch tires, Bilstein position-sensitive dampers, and a lifted suspension that provides 11.6 inches of ground clearance. The electronic locking front and rear differentials, combined with a disconnecting front sway bar, make it a formidable off-roader. However, even this capable setup has limitations.
Many adventurers seek lift kits to accommodate larger tires for enhanced ground clearance or to navigate obstacles without scraping the undercarriage. Others want to improve approach/departure angles or add aftermarket components like skid plates or winches that require extra space. Additionally, while the Sasquatch Package is impressive, its suspension isn’t optimized for extreme articulation in rock-crawling scenarios. Lift kits address these gaps by providing tailored solutions for specific terrains, whether you’re overlanding through deserts or crawling over boulders.
Choosing the Right Lift Kit: Suspension vs. Body Lifts
Lift kits fall into two categories: suspension lifts and body lifts. Each has distinct pros and cons, and your choice depends on your off-road goals, budget, and willingness to modify critical components.
Suspension Lifts
These kits elevate the Bronco by modifying the suspension system—replacing springs, shocks, or control arms. A 2- to 3-inch suspension lift is ideal for the Badlands, offering a balance between increased clearance and maintained stability. Brands like Rough Country and Zone Offroad offer kits that integrate seamlessly with the factory Sasquatch setup. For example, Rough Country’s 3-inch lift uses heavy-duty coilovers and reinforced trailing arms to prevent driveline vibration, a common issue when lifting independent front suspension vehicles.
Suspension lifts improve articulation and allow for larger tires but can be costly ($1,500–$4,000) and may require professional installation. They’re best for drivers prioritizing performance over budget.
Body Lifts
Body lifts use spacers to raise the body from the frame, typically by 1–2 inches. They’re cheaper ($300–$800) and easier to install but don’t enhance suspension travel or ground clearance. For Badlands owners, a 1-inch body lift could provide just enough room to fit 37-inch tires without altering the factory suspension geometry. However, this mod risks creating awkward gaps between the body and frame, which may expose components to debris.
Hybrid Approach
Some enthusiasts combine a 1-inch body lift with a 2-inch suspension lift to maximize tire clearance while keeping costs manageable. This setup minimizes strain on CV joints and steering components compared to a full 3-inch suspension lift.
Top Lift Kit Recommendations for the Bronco Badlands
- Fabtech 3-Inch DirtLogic Coilover Lift
Designed for serious off-roaders, this kit replaces the factory coilovers with adjustable DirtLogic shocks, offering 3 inches of lift and improved damping for high-speed desert runs. Its anodized aluminum bodies resist corrosion, and the system maintains factory electronic sway bar disconnect functionality. - Zone Offroad 2-Inch Adventure Series Lift
A budget-friendly option, Zone’s kit uses spacers and revised rear shock brackets to add 2 inches of lift. It retains the factory ride quality, making it ideal for daily drivers who occasionally hit trails. - BDS 4-Inch Long-Travel Suspension System
For those chasing extreme articulation, BDS’s long-travel kit includes tubular control arms and FOX 2.5 shocks. It pushes the Badlands to 4 inches of lift but requires trimming the fender liners and upgrading to aftermarket wheels to avoid rubbing.
Tire Size Guide: Balancing Aggression and Functionality
The Badlands’ factory 35-inch tires (LT315/70R17) are no slouch, but upgrading to 37s or even 38s can transform its capabilities. Here’s how to choose wisely:
37-Inch Tires (e.g., Nitto Ridge Grappler, BFGoodrich KM3)
A 37-inch tire adds 1 inch of ground clearance and improves traction in mud and sand. However, fitting them requires at least a 2-inch suspension lift and aftermarket wheels with a -12mm offset to prevent rubbing at full steering lock. Expect minor trimming of the front crash bars and a 3–4 MPG drop in fuel economy due to added weight.
38- or 40-Inch Tires
These sizes demand aggressive modifications, including a 3-inch lift, reinforced axle shafts, and regearing the differentials to 4.70 or 5.13 ratios. While they look imposing and excel in rock crawling, they strain the stock drivetrain and are impractical for daily driving.
Width Considerations
Wider tires (12.5 inches+) provide better flotation in soft terrain but increase the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads. Stick to 11.5- to 12.5-inch widths for a balanced performance.
Installation Tips: Avoiding Common Pitfalls
- Professional Alignment Is Non-Negotiable
After installing a lift kit, improper alignment can cause uneven tire wear or handling issues. Ensure the shop adjusts caster and toe-in specifically for lifted Broncos. - Upgrade Supporting Components
Larger tires stress steering systems. Consider adding a heavy-duty tie rod kit (like JKS Manufacturing’s) to prevent bending during off-camber climbs. - Test Articulation Before Hitting Trails
Flex the suspension on a ramp or uneven ground to check for tire rub. If contact occurs, install aftermarket fender flares or trim liners.
Maintenance and Longevity: Protecting Your Investment
Lift kits and oversized tires accelerate wear on ball joints, wheel bearings, and brakes. Inspect these components every 5,000 miles and grease suspension bushings annually. Rotate tires every 3,000–4,000 miles to combat uneven wear from the added weight.
Final Thoughts: Build for Your Terrain
The best modifications align with your adventures. A 2-inch lift and 37-inch tires strike a sweet spot for weekend warriors, while hardcore crawlers might opt for 4-inch lifts and 40s. Whatever your path, the Bronco Badlands’ modular design ensures endless customization—so gear up, hit the dirt, and let your build evolve with your ambition.
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