OME suspension replaces your factory springs and shocks with heavier-duty components designed to handle rough terrain and extra weight

OME stands for Old Man Emu, an Australian suspension manufacturer owned by ARB. Their suspension systems swap out your vehicle's original springs, shocks, and sometimes bushings for parts that can handle off-road driving, towing, or carrying heavy loads without sagging or bottoming out. Unlike a straightforward lift kit, OME suspension is engineered as a complete system — the springs and shocks work together — so your ride quality and handling stay predictable even when you're pushing the vehicle hard.

The main reason people choose OME over factory suspension is load capacity. A stock suspension is tuned for the weight the manufacturer expects: you, your passengers, and normal cargo. Add a roof rack, a winch, a camper shell, or towing gear, and the springs compress more than they were designed to. OME springs are stiffer, so they resist that compression. The shocks are also valved differently to handle the extra movement without wallowing or bouncing.

OME makes suspension for trucks, SUVs, and some vans — not sedans or compact cars. The kits vary by vehicle model, so a Tacoma kit is different from a 4Runner kit. You'll need to know your exact year, make, and model to find the right one.

Key Takeaways

  • OME suspension is a matched set of springs and shocks that handle heavier loads and rough terrain better than factory parts.
  • The main benefit is preventing suspension sag when you add weight like roof racks, campers, or towing equipment.
  • OME kits are vehicle-specific, so you must confirm your exact year, make, and model before ordering.
  • Installation typically costs $1,500 to $3,500 in labor depending on your vehicle and whether you need alignment afterward.
  • OME suspension raises your vehicle's ride height slightly, usually 1 to 2 inches, which affects ground clearance and speedometer accuracy.

How OME suspension differs from factory suspension

Factory suspension is a compromise. Manufacturers tune it for comfort on paved roads, fuel economy, and the average load a vehicle will carry. The springs are relatively soft so bumps feel smooth. The shocks dampen movement quickly so the car doesn't bounce. This works fine for daily driving on highways and city streets.

OME suspension sacrifices some of that on-road comfort to gain load capacity and durability off-road. The springs are stiffer, so they don't compress as much when you add weight. The shocks have different internal valving to handle bigger movements without losing control. On smooth pavement, an OME-equipped truck will feel slightly firmer than stock — not harsh, but noticeably less cushioned. On rough terrain or when loaded, it stays level and controlled where factory suspension would sag and bounce.

Another difference: OME suspension is rebuildable. If a shock wears out after 100,000 miles, you can send it back to OME or an authorized shop for a rebuild instead of replacing the whole unit. Factory shocks are usually sealed and must be replaced as a unit.

OME suspension kits and what they include

An OME suspension kit for a truck or SUV typically includes a pair of front coil springs, a pair of rear springs (coils or leaf springs depending on the vehicle), and four shocks — one for each corner. Some kits also include new bushings, bump stops, or stabilizer bar links if the factory parts won't work with the new ride height.

OME offers different spring rates within their lineup. A light-duty kit might be rated for an extra 200 pounds of load. A heavy-duty kit for a truck that will tow or carry a camper might be rated for 500 to 1,000 pounds extra. You choose based on how much weight you plan to add. If you're just adding a roof rack and roof tent, a lighter kit works. If you're towing a trailer or mounting a camper, you want the heavier rate.

The cost of a complete OME kit ranges from $800 to $2,000 depending on the vehicle and spring rate. That's the parts only. Installation labor typically runs $1,500 to $3,500, and you may need a wheel alignment afterward, which adds another $150 to $300. Total out-of-pocket is usually $2,500 to $5,500.

Ride height changes and speedometer effects

OME suspension raises your vehicle's ride height because the springs are stiffer and don't compress as much under the vehicle's own weight. Most OME kits lift the vehicle 1 to 2 inches. This gives you more ground clearance, which is useful for rough terrain, but it also changes how your speedometer reads.

Your speedometer calculates speed based on wheel rotation. If your tires are taller (which they appear to be when the vehicle is higher), the speedometer reads lower than your actual speed. A vehicle lifted 2 inches with standard tires might read 2 to 3 miles per hour slower than it's actually going. This is usually not a safety issue for normal driving, but it's worth knowing. Some people recalibrate their speedometer or use a GPS-based speedometer app to check actual speed.

The ride height change also affects approach and departure angles — the angles at which your vehicle can climb over obstacles without scraping the bumper or undercarriage. A 1 to 2 inch lift improves these angles slightly, which helps off-road but is not dramatic.

When OME suspension makes sense for your vehicle

OME suspension is worth considering if you regularly carry heavy loads, tow a trailer, or drive on rough terrain. If you're adding a roof rack with a tent, a roof basket, or a camper shell, your factory suspension will sag noticeably. OME prevents that sag and keeps the ride level. If you tow, OME suspension keeps the rear from squatting and improves stability.

OME is less necessary if you drive mostly on pavement and carry light loads. The firmer ride on smooth roads is a trade-off you don't need to make. Factory suspension is also less expensive to maintain and replace when it wears out.

OME suspension is also popular with off-road enthusiasts because the stiffer springs and better shocks handle rocks, ruts, and water crossings without bottoming out. If you're planning serious off-road trips, OME is a common choice. For light trail driving or occasional rough roads, it's optional.

Installation and what to expect afterward

OME suspension installation requires removing the wheels, disconnecting the factory springs and shocks, and bolting in the new components. The job takes a shop 4 to 8 hours depending on the vehicle. Some vehicles are straightforward; others have components that are seized or difficult to access, which adds time.

After installation, you should get a wheel alignment. The new suspension geometry changes the angles of your wheels, and misalignment will cause uneven tire wear and pulling. A two-wheel alignment (front only) costs $150 to $200. A four-wheel alignment costs $250 to $350.

After installation, the suspension needs a break-in period. Drive normally for the first 500 miles. The springs and shocks settle, and you'll notice the ride quality stabilize. Some people report the suspension feeling slightly stiff for the first few hundred miles, then smoothing out.

OME suspension maintenance and lifespan

OME suspension requires the same maintenance as factory suspension: visual inspection for leaks or damage, and replacement when components wear out. Shocks typically last 50,000 to 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Off-road driving and rough terrain shorten that lifespan. Springs rarely wear out but can lose their stiffness over time if they're overloaded consistently.

OME shocks can be rebuilt instead of replaced. A rebuild typically costs $300 to $500 per shock and restores the shock to like-new condition. This is cheaper than buying new shocks and extends the life of your suspension system. Many shops that specialize in off-road vehicles offer OME rebuilds.

If you're planning to keep your vehicle long-term and use it hard, OME suspension is a durable choice. The components are engineered for abuse, and the ability to rebuild shocks means you can keep the system working for the life of the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will OME suspension make my truck ride rough on the highway?

OME suspension is noticeably firmer than factory suspension on smooth pavement, but not harsh. Most owners describe it as a trade-off: less cushioning, more control. On highways, you'll feel bumps more than you would in a stock vehicle, but the ride remains stable and predictable. If you spend most of your time on pavement, the firmer ride may not be worth it to you.

Can I install OME suspension myself?

If you have suspension experience and proper tools, you can do it yourself. Most DIYers spend 8 to 12 hours on the job. You'll need a jack, jack stands, spring compressor, and a torque wrench. If you're not confident, a shop is safer and faster. Suspension work affects handling and safety, so mistakes are costly.

Do I need OME suspension if I'm just adding a roof rack?

A roof rack alone (50 to 100 pounds) won't sag your suspension noticeably. If you're adding a roof tent, cargo basket, or camper shell (200 to 500 pounds), OME suspension becomes more useful. The heavier the load, the more benefit you get. For light loads, factory suspension usually handles it fine.

Will OME suspension affect my vehicle's warranty?

Aftermarket suspension voids the factory suspension warranty but not the rest of the vehicle's warranty. If something else breaks, the manufacturer will still cover it. Check your warranty documents or ask your dealer for specifics, as policies vary by manufacturer.

How do I know which OME kit is right for my vehicle?

Go to the OME website or contact an OME dealer with your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size. They'll recommend the appropriate spring rate based on how much weight you plan to carry. If you're unsure about load, start with the standard kit — you can always upgrade later if needed.