FAQ
If you're like most checking out our website, you're probably new to the lifted smart car idea and probably have some questions. We've tried to highlight some questions we get a lot below and, at the same time, tried to be as transparent as possible with real information that's actually helpful and not just a pitch piece for sales (although maybe there's a little bit of that sprinkled in here and there). Anyway, check it out and as always, if you have any other questions, we're just an email, text or phone call away.
What's the real difference between a BRAAP smart car lift kit and the others I've seen out there?
This is probably the most common question we get. If you’re down for giving your Smart Fortwo a little extra swagger—maybe for some off-road exploring or just because lifted Smart cars look ridiculously cool—you’ve probably run into the two main ways to get that lift: smart car suspension lift kits and spacer lift kits.
Both will get your Smart sitting taller, but the difference between them is huge. Spacer lifts are the quick-and-cheap “boost your height” option, while suspension lifts are the real deal — better ride quality, better durability, better handling… just better everything. Here's a blog article with more details: Suspension Lift vs. Spacer Lift: Which is the Smart Way to go?
Which smart models can a BRAAP Lift Kit be installed on
Any 2008-2015 smart fortwo 451 can be transformed into a BRAAP lifted smart car. NOTE: BRAAP Lift Kits are NOT compatible with 2016 and up 453 models. For more details, check out our blog article: How to Choose the Right Pre-Owned Smart Fortwo 451 for a BRAAP Smart Car Lift Kit Build
What else will I need, besides a Lift Kit, to transform my smart car into a BRAAP?
BRAAP Lift Kits include everything you need to properly “lift” your smart car. Of course, you will want some rad wheels and tires in which case, you will also need some wheel adapters. Details on that stuff is below.
In addition, while not required, many customers opt for our fender flare / body cut template kit as well, for that signature BRAAP look. Not only will your smart look great, it also takes away the guesswork, not to mention a lot of the time it takes, to trim and cut the plastic body for wheel clearance. A fan favorite for sure.
How will lifting my smart car impact electrical components?
As with most vehicles, lifting and putting larger tires on a smart car will make your smart's computer question some things. Most notably, various sensors may be more easily triggered making it often necessary to temporarily disable some features like cruise control (if available), abs, traction control etc. This is easily done by removing a fuse or running an on/off switch from the fuse. Additionally, due to the larger wheels and tires, your speedometer will be inaccurate. Many compensate for this with a GPS display as there is no known re-coding or computer fix available currently.
How will lifting my smart car impact drive-ability and performance?
As with most all vehicles, lifting and putting larger tires on a smart car will have an effect on initial acceleration and top end speed as your torque and gearing have not been changed. There are, however, a number of modifications that can be made to help compensate. Check out our blog article for more details: Boosting Your Lifted Smart Car's Performance: Engine and Transmission Upgrades. Either way, with or without upgrades, your BRAAP Lifted Smart Car will still be totally drive-able when lifted, even on the highway.
That said, unlike most vehicles, when done properly, most anyone will tell you that a BRAAP Lifted Smart Car will actually drive better than stock – Better suspension, longer wheel base, widened wheel track and improved geometry all play a part in making for a surprisingly great ride, compared to a stock smart car.
Can I install a BRAAP Lift Kit myself? If so, will I need special tools?
While professional installation is always recommended, many of our customers install their own BRAAP Lift Kits. No “special tools” are needed to install a BRAAP Lift Kit. The following is a short list of the basics you will need:
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(4) Jack Stands
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(2) Hydraulic Jacks
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Strut Knuckle Spreader Tool (available on our website)
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Metric Tools (it’s a Mercedes after all) - Wrenches, Sockets, Etc
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Torx Bits & Sockets
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Cutting Tool (for trimming just a bit of metal)
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Airsaw, Dremel or Similar (for trimming plastics)
What wheels and tires are recommended for my lifted smart car?
Wheel recommendation for both our BRAAP 6” smart car Lift Kit and our 3” smart car Lift Kit: 15”x7”, with 4x156 bolt pattern, and 10-13mm or 4+3 offset. This is a common Polaris RZR size and fitment so there are plenty of off-road style wheel options and typically at reasonable prices. Note that larger size wheels, different bolt patterns, and offsets are always an option but it’s always best to consult with a professional for custom configurations. And, we know a good bit about it too so, feel free to hit us up with questions.
Tire recommendation for our BRAAP 6” smart car Lift Kit: Typically 30x9.5R15 (or similar up to 30.5”H and 10.5”W) all terrain or mud terrain. Anything larger may result in some rubbing in turns.
Tire recommendation for our BRAAP 3” smart car Lift Kit: Typically 215/75R15 or 235/70R15 (or similar up to 28”H and 10.5”W) all terrain or mud terrain. Anything larger may result in some rubbing in turns.
Of course, other tire styles are always an option, depending on your particular application. Note that size specification and actual tire measurements may vary, slightly, between manufacturers. For example, a 30x9.5R15 of one brand may actually measure 29.5”H while another may be 30.2”. As always, it’s best to consult with a professional for guidance.
Do I need wheel adapters and if so, what size?
This can be kind of a tricky subject to navigate as there are a lot of variables but, hopefully, we can simplify this for you.
If you’re going to roll with wheels other than stock, you’ll need some wheel adapters. Your adapter fitment will depend on your wheel fitment. For example, if using 4x156 fitment wheels, you’ll need 3x112 (smart bolt pattern) to 4x156 wheel adapters (available here on our website).
Then you’ll need to consider the thickness or depth of your wheel adapters which will depend on your wheel offset and the “look” you’d like to achieve – eg: how far out or how tucked in you want them. If going for the signature BRAAP “look” and our standard wheel and tire recommendations (above), you’ll want to go with our standard wheel adapters (here on our website) which are: 3x112 to 4x156 adapters – 2” thick in the front and 2.25” thick in the rear.
If you’re looking to go with something different, like maybe just stock wheels, a different 4-lug or 5-lug bolt pattern, or a higher or lower wheel offset, you’ll likely need to change up your wheel adapter specs. In any case, we’re here to help you get it all sorted. Just give us a call.
What is the recommended tire pressure?
Because these smart cars are so light (just 1,900lbs +/-), for best ride quality, we recommend running your tires at about 28 PSI. Higher tire pressure may result in a stiffer, bumpier ride and possibly result in uneven tread wear.
Will I need an alignment after installing my BRAAP Lift Kit?
Yes, for optimal drive-ability, a professional alignment is strongly recommended after installing a BRAAP Lift Kit. Keep in mind that the only adjustment needed (and that can be performed) is your front toe. Both your front caster and camber are corrected and optimized with your BRAAP lift kit. And, rear caster, camber and toe are "fixed" so no need for alignment.
Obligatory Disclaimer:
Modified suspension and large diameter tires that increase ground clearance, as well as disabling traction control, abs or other safety features, will alter vehicle handling. Vehicle may become more likely to roll over, braking distance may increase, and slower speeds may be required to maintain control in certain conditions. Failure to drive vehicle safely may result in vehicle damage, serious injury or death. Always wear your seat belt and use extreme caution while driving until you become familiar with how your vehicle handles. Some vehicle modifications may be illegal in certain states. Consult with your state’s department of motor vehicles for more information.
