If you’re a custom truck enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the “Carolina squat.” You might even own a squatted truck with a lifted front end and lowered rear. But knowing all the dangers of the Carolina squat, you might want to alter or reverse the changes. So, can you “unsquat” a squatted truck? Find out below.

The drawbacks of squatted trucks

Before we dive into whether it’s possible to “unsquat” a truck, it’s important to understand why this modification is dangerous.

Squatting your vehicle can pose serious risks because it can point headlights upward, compromising the driver’s view and increasing the risk of accidents. It can also blind oncoming motorists, increasing the odds of a collision.

This mod can also wear out the suspension system faster due to the upward tilt and the lowered rear. And it can affect braking performance, raising the chance of an accident.

In addition, if you need to tow heavier items, such as a travel trailer, you won’t be able to with a squatted truck. The squat prevents your vehicle from towing or hauling properly.

How do you fix Carolina squat modifications?

Luckily, there are ways to fix squatted trucks so they no longer place drivers and pedestrians in danger. The easiest solution is to replace the standard components.

Sometimes, the suspension on a squatted truck can become so worn that it’s unsafe — or uncool. “One solution is to get new leaf springs,” HotCars.com reports. “If the truck is frequently being used for heavy-duty tow jobs, then this could cause the springs to wear down faster. There are even ways to make a truck squat less when loaded up with cargo or towing heavy trailers. One alternative is an air suspension system.” 

Air springs provide adjustability with load support. They work with the vehicle’s existing suspension and help level it to a normal ride height. That will help remove squat hazards because they’re not considered normal conditions for vehicles.

Which states have banned squatted trucks?

Because of the dangers of operating a squatted truck on public roads, two states — North Carolina and Virginia — have banned extreme modifications. In addition, online petitions urge lawmakers in other states to outlaw these vehicles.

North Carolina was the first to prohibit certain Carolina squat mods in December 2021, and South Carolina tried to follow suit the next year. Senators in that state passed the bill with a 33-to-1 vote; however, it still needed house approval, and the bill fell apart in the 11th hour.

But in March 2022, Virginia successfully approved a ban on vehicles with a front bumper four or more inches higher than the rear.