Few vehicles on the road today are as beloved by so many motorists as the Jeep. The reasons for the Jeep’s devoted following are almost too numerous to count. However, one of the most significant and far-reaching reasons for the Jeep’s appeal lies in the sheer volume and prevalence of available aftermarket accessories for these iconic off-road warriors.
For a Jeep owner, customizing your ride comes as a rite of passage of sorts, and a Jeep can be accessorized to whatever degree you see fit. It says something about who's driving it, much like a personalized license plate. In more ways than one, a Jeep owner’s personality is reflected and exemplified through their vehicle’s customization.
Sizing up the vast number of options is perhaps the most enjoyable aspect of customizing a Jeep. The possibilities that exist when purchasing accessories for your Jeep are virtually endless, and your imagination and budget are the only limiting factors along the way.
Types of Accessories for Your Jeep
In a bid to craft a truly unique creation, the first step to customize a Jeep is to take stock of the vast selection of accessories. There are a significant number of individual accessory categories, which span the gamut from performance parts to cosmetic upgrades and everything in between.
The following are some of the most prevalent and popular categories of Jeep accessories.
Lift Kits
Maybe you desire for your Jeep to exhibit a little bit more of an aggressive stance, or maybe you simply wish to clear those treacherous obstacles in your path that would bring other’s trail rides to a halt. No matter the reasoning, lift-kits have long been and remain one of the most popular of all Jeep accessories.
Lift kits come in several different forms and each yield somewhat different results in relation to actual ride height gains and additional modifications required. Lift kits come in a few different varieties, and body lifts and suspension lifts are the most common. Body lifts use spacers to boost a Jeep’s body to a greater height above its frame, while suspension lifts create distance between the Jeep’s frame and tires below.
In any event, consumers must also take into consideration whether any additional components will need to be replaced in conjunction with the installation of a lift kit. Items such as lengthier brake lines, aftermarket front end components, and even replacement driveshafts can be required with the installation of some lift kits. As a rule of thumb, the higher the lift, the more extensive the required modifications become. Also be aware of how a lift will affect your towing capacity.
Suspension Upgrades
If your Jeep spends more time off-road than it does on the pavement, you are likely already aware of the vital role that your Jeep’s suspension plays and the necessity of considering suspension upgrades. Your Jeep’s suspension components take quite the beating over the course of a summer spent off-roading, and while stock Wrangler and Cherokee suspension systems are built to absorb some level of abuse, they do have a breaking point.
Upgraded shocks and springs are readily available for any Jeep model, and the installation of such components can take your 4-wheel drive excursions to the next level. Aftermarket springs are available with progressive or dual rates, and shocks of gas, air, and reservoir varieties are offered. Additional heavy-duty suspension/steering components such as sway bars, track bars, and control arms are also available.
Lighting Packages
When the sun dips below the horizon before you are ready to call the day’s trail ride to a close, shining a little light on what lies beyond becomes a necessity. Luckily, there is a nearly infinite number of custom Jeep lighting solutions available on today’s market. Lighting kits of various types can be purchased for any Jeep model, and they range significantly in their characteristics.
Of the various light kits available, those that aim to upgrade OEM lighting such as headlights, taillights, and fog lights achieve a more custom look. Other kits, like LED light conversions or those featuring light bars, attempt to provide enhanced nighttime visibility.
Winch Kits
If you have substantial off-roading plans for your Jeep, you will want some type of winch. As capable as our Jeeps are, and as much 4-wheeling bravado as we exude from the driver's seat, it is easy to form the notion that we will never get stuck. However, we all eventually encounter trails that are a little more treacherous than we anticipate and end up being humbled. In those moments, your winch becomes both your lifeline and best friend.
The use of a winch allows trail riders to hook to the nearest stationary object and pull themselves free of the obstruction that has halted their forward progress. Winch kits of this nature typically include a winch, winch mount, and all additional components needed for installation. Both electric and hydraulic winches are available, and the former is the most popular among most circles of Jeep enthusiasts.
Performance Parts
Many Jeep owners seek to bolster their vehicle’s performance with the addition of Jeep parts intended to enhance drivability, and in many cases, maximize output. These components come in a number of subcategories, and some of the most popular are air intake systems (especially those with reusable air filter elements), exhaust kits, aftermarket ignition systems, heavy-duty cooling, and programmers.
In addition to the purchase of aftermarket, upgraded components, many who hit the trails regularly keep replacement parts on hand. This minimizes downtime when faced with unanticipated breakdowns that can and will occur from time to time when off-roading. By simply keeping a few spare parts and a basic set of hand tools stowed away, you can rectify many misadventures along the way. And always maintaining your Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Wrangler parts like drivetrain components, brake pads, ball joints, and other key elements will help keep you out of trouble on the trail.
Tops & Roof Mount Accessories
Tops and roof-mounted racks rank high in Jeep Wrangler accessory categories. A nearly endless array of tops are available in today’s market, with virtually any color or configuration imaginable offered. Both hardtop and soft top varieties can be purchased, and many tops include distinctive, unique features that differentiate them from those offered by other brands. Other hybrid tops, such as bikini-style tops, are also quite popular.
In addition to the myriad of tops available for purchase, a significant number of roof racks are offered for sale as well. These roof racks come in many forms and can be fitted to virtually any Jeep, assuming correct year/model compatibility has been verified. These racks can be used to carry everything from luggage to additional parts on a long trail ride and are a great way to carry a trip’s necessities without depleting interior cabin space. Cargo nets are also available to keep things safe and secure on the trail.
Eye Appeal Jeep Parts
One of the most enjoyable characteristics of owning a Jeep is the opportunity to make it your own with both exterior and interior accessories. This includes the addition of various cosmetic upgrades that can give your Jeep a “one of a kind” look. With each passing year, the number of such new products continues to grow, offering Jeep owners an even greater chance to take their originality to the next level.
Some of the most popular products within this category include custom spare tire covers, grille inserts, fender flares, grab handles, decals, floor mats, visors, and seat covers. Additionally, some such accessories are not only eye-catching but practical as well. This is the case with items such as side steps, or running boards, and custom tire carriers. Other such accessories that offer striking visual appeal and enhanced structural integrity include custom Jeep bumpers (both rear and front bumpers), skid plates, and roll bars.
Top Accessories
As with virtually any form of automotive accessory, some Jeep accessories naturally stand out above the rest. These products are known for their exemplary quality and noteworthy consumer appeal.
The following products are among the top Jeep accessory products within their respective categories.
Top Lift Kits
1. 4” Standard Series Suspension Lift Kit with Hydro Shocks
The Skyjacker 4” Standard Series Lift Kit comes with everything you need to increase ground clearance and give your ride the more aggressive stance you have always envisioned. This kit is compatible with 1997-2002 Wranglers.
2. Rubicon Express 3.5” Super-Flex Short Arm Lift Kit
The Rubicon Express 3.5” Super-Flex Short Arm Kit is comprehensive in nature and provides consumers with all that is needed to lift their Wrangler JK to new heights. This kit is compatible with all 2007-2017 JK Wrangler Unlimited Jeeps.
3. SUPERLIFT 4” Suspension Lift Kit
Those that are fond of classic Jeeps yet wish to gain a little additional ride height will likely find favor with the Superlift 4” Suspension Lift Kit. This kit is designed for use with CJ model Jeeps of various years and includes detailed instructions to assist you in getting the job done.
4. 2” SST Jeep Grand CherokeeLift Kit
If you want to give your Jeep Grand Cherokee a modest lift that is just enough to provide a dose of rugged visual appeal, the Ready Lift 2” SST Lift Kit will get you there. This kit is compatible with 2014-2020 Grand Cherokees and uses 2” strut extensions, as well as 1” rear coil spring spacers, to provide your Jeep a slightly lifted and leveled look.
Top Aftermarket Suspension Kits
1. Fox Factory Performance Series 2.0 IQS Shocks
Never settle for a less than the perfect ride again with Fox Factory Performance Series 2.0 Shocks. These shocks can be controlled through an included electronic interface, effectively varying shock stiffness based upon a driver's input.
2. Bilstein B6 4600
If you are looking to upgrade your stock ride height Wrangler’s shocks, the Bilstein B6 4600 shocks are one of the most efficient ways of doing so. These shocks provide consistent, fade-free performance through their monotube design.
3. King Air Shocks
King Air Shocks are designed to provide premium vibration and load dampening, even in the most demanding of circumstances. These shocks utilize King’s advanced seal technology and feature a near infinite amount of height adjustability.
4. Rubicon Express Adjustable Reservoir Shocks
Rubicon Adjustable Reservoir Shocks meet the demands of the trail, resisting shock fade along the way. This is accomplished using a secondary fluid reservoir, which allows twice the amount of fluid customary for factory shocks, to be used within operation. This significantly reduces heat buildup, which is the primary catalyst for shock fade.
Top Light Kits
1. Rhino 20” Double Row LED Light Bar
If you are not the type to let the setting sun dash your off-roading ambitions, then the Rhino 20” Double Row LED Light Bar will come as a welcome addition. This light bar cuts through the darkness with its 22,000 lumen output yet is offered at an economical price point and comes with Rhino’s lifetime guarantee.
2. Squadron Sport LED Utility Light
The Squadron Sport LED Utility Light is the perfect fit to cover any lighting need. This 3,150 Lumen light can be used for near field or side/backup illumination.
3. KC Cyclone LED Rock Light Kit
If you have ever wished to gain a better perspective of the terrain that lies beneath while traversing a trail, then KC’s Cyclone LED Rock Light Kit will fulfill your needs. This lighting kit is intended for undercarriage use and comes with all required wiring and adaptive hardware necessary to complete the installation process.
4. Rigid Adapt Light Bar
You’ll never wonder about the trail ahead with the Rigid Adapt Light Bar. This light bar provides operators with 8 selectable beam modes to choose from and features a backlit control interface.
Top Winch Kits
1. Superwinch Talon 9.51 12v Winch
The Superwinch Talon 9.51 12v Winch is specifically engineered to get you or your trail-riding companions out of a bind when such circumstances necessitate a recovery mission. This winch features a no-load line speed of 62 feet per minute and is built to last, with robust gearing and a more than capable motor.
2. Warn Zeon 10-S Platinum Winch
With a 10,000 pound pulling capacity, it is safe to say that there are very few dilemmas you will find yourself in along the trail that the Warn Zeon 10-S Platinum Winch cannot rectify. This winch also features an ultra-durable Spydura synthetic cable.
3. Superwinch Tiger Shark 12v Winch
If you are looking for a winch that is small in size but not in power or potential, look no further than the Superwinch Tiger Shark. This winch is compact in design yet rated to pull up to 9,500 pounds.
Top Performance Parts
1. K&N Performance Air Intake System
Let your Wrangler breathe deep with the K&N Performance Air Intake System. This system aids in engine performance by minimizing air intake restrictions and supplying a maximum volume of cool air into your engine for optimized combustion. This system is specified for use with 3.6 liter Jeep Wranglers and is guaranteed by K&N to provide recordable gains in both horsepower and torque.
2. B&M Hi-Tek Direct-Fit Automatic Transmission Supercooler
It is no secret that the transmission of a Jeep, used primarily for off-road excursions, takes a beating. Give your Jeep’s transmission some love with B&M Hi-Tek Direct-Fit Automatic Transmission Supercooler. This transmission cooler keeps transmission temps at an acceptable range no matter the abuse that is dished out along the trail, which in turn can extend your transmission’s service life.
3. Magnaflow JK Wrangler Cat-Back Performance Exhaust
The Magnaflow JK Wrangler Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System helps substantiate your Jeep’s performance by minimizing exhaust restrictions, while providing subtle aggressiveness to your engine’s exhaust tone. This system comes with installation instructions and can be installed by most with basic mechanical knowledge.
4. Edelbrock Max-Fire Distributor
If your classic AMC era Jeep’s ignition system is giving you fits, you are not alone. This was a common issue of Jeeps within this timeframe. Luckily, Edelbrock has engineered the ideal solution to rid your Jeep of what ails it. The Edelbrock Max-Fire Distributor is a direct fit for AMC Jeeps featuring 290-401 V8 engines and utilizes a simple 3-wire electrical configuration for simple installation.
Top-End Tops and Roof Mount Accessories
1. Rampage Products CJ7/YJ Soft Top with Frame
Rampage Products’ Soft Top is the perfect addition to any CJ7 or YJ Jeep whose driver wants to enjoy all that fair-weather exploration has to offer. This top is built to weather the elements with its rugged construction and comes with a full-frame and hardware for installation.
2. Rugged Ridge Pocket Brief Top
The Rugged Ridge Pocket Brief Top is the perfect mesh between practicality and aesthetic appeal. This top covers a Wrangler’s front row of seating, yet leaves the backseat uncovered, providing passengers with a diverse and dynamic experience. This Rugged Ridge top also features integrated interior pockets for additional storage.
3. Omix/Rugged Ridge Eclipse Sun Shade
If you prefer the open air feel of driving with your Jeep’s top off, yet wish to keep the blinding sun overhead from scorching down, the Eclipse Sun Shade Top will provide you with a best of both worlds type scenario. This sun shade is compatible for use with 07-18 JK Wranglers and is translucent enough to let ambient sunlight in, but dense enough to keep much of the sun’s UV at bay.
4. Rugged Ridge Sherpa Roof Rack Kit
The Rugged Ridge Sherpa Roof Rack Kit provides ample overhead storage, keeping your Jeep’s cabin free of clutter. This roof rack is of a true bolt-in design and requires no drilling or permanent modification for installation.
Top Eye Appeal Enhancing Accessories
1. AMP Research PowerStep Electric Running Boards
Has the recent install of a lift kit made it a chore to get in and out of your Jeep? If so, bypass the hassle by installing a set of AMP Research PowerStep Electric Running Boards. These running boards automatically deploy into position when you open your door and retract when it is shut, while looking the part in the process.
2. Fab Fours Vengeance Front Bumper
The Fab Fours Vengeance Front Bumper provides beefy front-end protection, while looking nothing short of stylish in doing so. This bumper features a built-in brush guard and an integrated 20” light bar.
3. Go Rhino Rockline Bumper
Go Rhino’s Rockline series of bumpers is the perfect choice when seeking to give your Wrangler JL or Jeep Gladiator an aggressive edge in the looks department. However, these bumpers are equal parts form and function, as they are every bit as robust as they appear.
4. Paramount Edge Front Fenders
Paramount Edge Front Fenders offer up a sporty look to any TJ Wrangler, showcasing an eye-catching flared design. These fenders also come complete with LED turn signals.