What is the cost to install hydraulics in a car?

You might be curious about how much it costs to install hydraulics on a vehicle. This isn’t a simple modification to perform, so it’s important that you consider the option carefully. Some states may not allow mods.

We will be covering the cost of hydraulics for a vehicle in this article. You will also see all parts and how they affect the vehicle. 

How Much Does it Cost to Install Hydraulics in Your Car?

You might spend about $600 on a basic car hydraulic system. You could spend up to $1,000 if you want something more advanced. You should also consider the additional $75-150 per hour cost of installation. 

Your car can be turned into a "lowrider" by allowing you to quickly lower and raise it. Some hydraulic systems allow you to jump, bounce, or hop the car. If you’ve ever seen the dancing cars at shows, these are a good picture of what lowriders can do. 

It is necessary to have a variety of parts in order for this design and functionality. More components will cost you more. To get going, many people opt to start with a simple kit. While the cost is much lower with these kits, the functionality won’t be the same. In this instance, you get exactly what you pay. You might save money by getting the professional kit and installation you deserve for your car. 

RELATED: Air Suspension System – How it Works (& Pros & Cons)

The Car Hydraulic System Parts

1. Rams

The ram replaces the automobile’s OEM spring and shock configuration. To customize your setup, these rams need to be mounted.

The rams can be filled with hydraulic fluid, which allows for the vehicle to be raised and lowered. The car will ride higher if the rams have been empty. 

2. Pumps

Hydraulic pumps are key components of the vehicle lowering mechanism. You can raise the vehicle by installing heavy-duty hydraulic pumps. 

Some systems have two pumps while others use four. More pumps will mean that you pay more. However, more pumps mean a faster response time. 

3. Springs

To use a hydraulic system on a vehicle, it doesn’t need to have any springs. Your vehicle can be lowered without springs.

But, it is possible to upgrade the springs. While it’s an added expense, the springs further absorb some of the shock to create a more enjoyable ride. 

4. Fluid Lines

Many heavy-duty hoses are used to transmit hydraulic fluid. The hoses can be attached to the system using metal connectors. 

These connectors must be strong and durable, because there’s a lot of pressure flowing through the lines. A leak can lead to high-pressure fluid leaking out, which could cause serious damage. 

5. Electronic Components

You can’t use a standard hydraulic system and expect it to dance or bounce to the music. A sophisticated electrical system is required to achieve this level. This system will also require power. Numerous hydraulic suspension systems can run on several batteries at once, sometimes as many as ten. Additionally, the batteries need to be connected with heavy-duty wires and alternators.

You can’t expect the average hydraulic suspension to run on your standard 12-volt system. There’s much more power that needs to be produced, so you will need something closer to 24 volts or higher. 

The average hydraulic system won’t contain a lot of electronics, which is why the cost can be kept lower. Yet, you aren’t going to get the advanced effects with these basic systems as you would with one that’s running on a heavy amount of electronics. 

When calculating the cost of parts, you should consider the number of parts required as well as the prices. You also need to think about how much labor is needed. It is possible to save significant money by doing it yourself. 

Start looking to find parts for custom hydraulic systems. CoolCars To locate the parts you need.

Hydraulics are bad for your car?

The suspension can begin to lose its support over time if the hydraulic system is not maintained properly. You can also damage the undercarriage. Your vehicle will be protected from any damage with new technology and correct installation. 

You should also consider how the vehicle will be handled after hydraulics have been installed. You may find it more difficult to control the vehicle after installing hydraulics. If you aren’t prepared for this, the ride could become dangerous to you, so it’s something to consider. 

Hydraulic Suspension Professionals

1. More stable riding

Tired of your car's mushy and pongy ride? A hydraulic system can give you a more firm feel, which might make it easier for you.

You can adjust the suspension to give you more control. You can also adjust the hydraulics to give you the best of both the worlds.

2. Quick Reaction Time

A hydraulic system is much quicker than standard coil springs. You will notice a faster response when the vehicle is driving over a speed bump. 

The suspension’s hydraulic fluid adjusts to handle any shock that it feels. You can adjust the speed at which your suspension reacts if you have one. 

3. Fully customizable

There’s a hydraulic suspension for any desire. The configuration can be customized to meet your specific needs.

Adjust the shocks to an appropriate height so they can sit comfortably. With special effects and unique styles, it is possible to make the shocks more complex. 

Hydraulic Suspension Conversions

1. High-end

The hydraulic system will cost you a lot of money. Don’t be confused into thinking that the expense is only when you purchase it and install it.

It is important to consider how much it will cost to maintain and repair the suspension system. Plus, it’s difficult to find technicians that will work on these suspensions. 

2. Leaks can be common

Hydraulic suspensions can have more problems than standard suspensions. You might experience frequent leaks due to all of the lines and pressure.

It’s not difficult to detect these leaks, especially because the fluid sprays out at high-pressure. Repairs can prove costly and overwhelming. 

3. Bumpier Ride

There are pros and cons to both the ride quality and price. The hydraulic suspension provides a more firm ride, something that some people prefer.

For the same reasons, however, your ride might become more bumpy. You might be able reduce some harshness by installing high-quality shocks and springs. However, this will cost you more. 

Is it legal to use hydraulic systems?

There are laws that prohibit hydraulic systems from being used in certain states. Before making modifications to your vehicle you must do your research. However, these are just a few of the states with special laws. 

Texas

Headlight height must not exceed 24 to 54 inches above ground. You must also have your taillights at least 15 to 72 inches below the ground. This means that the rear reflector height must be between 60 and 15 inches above the ground. 

You can regulate many other lighting systems. To ensure that your vehicle is compatible, you can visit the Texas website. 

New York

New York State regulations limit the height of your vehicle. You can’t exceed a height of 13’1”.

However, the restriction isn’t specified for the minimum frame range or height. You want to also check the weight limitations of your vehicle to ensure you aren’t breaking any laws. 

Florida

Florida, just like Texas has regulations regarding the height and placement of headlights. The headlights are required to be placed at least 24-54 inches below the ground. What’s interesting is that there are no regulations about the taillight height. 

Florida has a minimum bumper height. However, the measurement depends on how much your vehicle weighs, so you have to reference the guide on the government’s website to see how it applies to your vehicle. Some exceptions are hot rods and antique cars, as well as new vehicles. 

California

These laws may be some of the strictest in existence. We encourage you to read through the government’s website to ensure you comply.

The most important law is that no vehicle can have a body lift or frame height that’s been raised more than five inches. But, aftermarket lifts are permissible.