Jeep off-road accessories are abundant. In fact, there are so many Wrangler mods that it can be difficult to narrow down your options. The good news is that you don’t have to limit yourself. You can upgrade and save up cash over time, but you still need somewhere to start. That’s why we’re here to help.
We’ve got details on some of the best off-roading accessories for all Jeep Wranglers, new and old. Some are designed to protect the Wrangler from body damage, while others improve its capability and functionality. Whether you want to enhance your off-roading power, you’re looking for fun and convenience, or a little bit of both, we’ve got you covered. Check out our favorite off-pavement-friendly mods for the Jeep Wrangler.
#8. Mud Tires
The off-roading tire debate can be a bit…tiring. Some folks prefer all-terrain tires, some mud tires, while others mistakenly hop on out there without even checking to see what kind of tires they own. (Don’t be that person). The truth is that both all-terrain and mud tires work great for off-pavement adventuring, but serious off-roading Jeepers will greatly benefit from mud tires as opposed to all-terrain. This is because mud tires are thicker, making them more difficult to puncture, which is a strong possibility when you’re on the trail or in the woods.
Mud tires also have excellent traction that helps them push the Wrangler through deep mud holes and swampy areas. These tires are even handy to have when traveling on loose dirt or gravel as they maintain a better grip and are more durable overall. Compared to all-terrain tires, gravel and rocks are less likely to wear mud tires down.
Light off-roaders who mostly use their Wrangler as a commuter should stick with all-terrain tires, but most of you here probably spend most of your time in your Jeep off-pavement. When that’s the case, investing in mud tires is worth it. Conversely, even if you don’t go off-roading often but want the ultimate experience, purchase a set of off-roading tires specifically for trailing. You can change your tires in an hour or less if you know what you’re doing, and having a dedicated trail set is worth the investment.
#7. A Winch
Folks who plan on doing any off-roading at all are going to want a winch. It doesn’t matter if you’re the one who gets stuck or your friend needs a lift; a reliable winch can save the day. That said, keep in mind that while this is one of our favorite off-roading accessories, there are many factors to consider before you purchase a winch.
Do you need a hydraulic winch or an electric winch? How much does your Wrangler weigh, and how much will it weigh once you fully upgrade it? Hydraulic winches are incredibly capable, but they depend on a running engine, meaning that if you run out of fuel, the winch stops working. Electric winches can store power and work without the engine running, but they aren’t typically as powerful as hydraulic winches. Occasional off-roaders prefer electric winches, but hydraulic winches are best suited for hardcore labor.
Always remember that winches are only handy when you’re using them correctly. This technology can quickly become dangerous if you choose one with the wrong specs or if you use it carelessly. Don’t forget to calculate your winch’s weight and the weight of whatever you’re winching. Your Wrangler may be capable, but it isn’t heavy-duty truck-level tough.
#6. Rock Rails
Maybe your Jeep is old and used solely for off-roading adventures. If that’s the case, then you probably don’t care as much about its exterior appeal. The more likely case is that you’re paying a pretty penny each month for a newer JK or JL Wrangler. Protecting the paint and frame are likely high on your priority list. This is where rock rails come in. Models such as the Willys and Rubicon Wranglers include standard rock rails, but most Wranglers come with side steps alone. These add-ons are designed to protect the door sills from rock/debris damage. They’re practical yet stylish, and a good set of rock rails is worth the investment.
#5. Body Armor
This is yet another way you can protect your Wrangler from off-roading damage. Jeep body armor helps to prevent scratches, dents, and dings in the most commonly affected areas. Vulnerable areas include the “cowl,” which is the panel right below the windshield wipers, the hood, and the rear corners. You can also get caged tail light covers to prevent tail light breakage, along with turn signal covers, fog light guards, and headlight guards. Jeep body armor comes in many different patterns, colors, designs, and materials.
#4. Doorless Mirror Kits
Newer to the Jeep off-roading world is the doorless mirror kit. Before, Wranglers lost their side mirrors once the doors came off. It was an unfortunate consequence for folks who were just trying to have some fun with the Wrangler’s removable doors. Now, the doorless mirror kit accessory lets Jeep owners reap the benefits of side mirrors when the doors are gone. Thanks to these door-free mirror kits, off-roaders can feel safer when the Jeep’s stripped down while staying fully immersed in the trails.
#3. All-Weather Floor Mats
There’s no doubt about it; if you own a Jeep Wrangler and you drive on more than just blacktop, you’re going to want all-weather floor mats. Water fording, mudding, and dirt-ridden roadways are inevitable if you’re off-roading correctly. You likely already know that your Wrangler’s floor comes with drain plugs since its water-resistant interior is likely to encounter some rain, water, and mud. Capable all-weather floor mats fit into this process thanks to their water-proof, easy-to-clean design. Put simply? There’s not much fun in having carpeted floor mats with water-resistant flooring, which is why we love adding all-weather mats to the Wrangler if it doesn’t have them already.
#2. Tubular Doors
There’s no greater feeling than having the doors off while still feeling protected and secure. How does this happen, you ask? The answer is simple: tubular doors! Think of them as those bars that keep you from falling off ski lifts or bouncing out of roller coasters. You get much more freedom with these than you do with regular doors––the air hits your face, you have fewer blind spots, and you get to better enjoy your surroundings. Plus, thanks to those aforementioned doorless mirror kits, you can stay legal and safe while having more fun.
#1. LED Light Bars
If you consider yourself a hardcore off-roader, then you’ll probably find yourself in the woods after dark, whether it’s intentional or not. It doesn’t matter if you underestimated the trail time or you planned to camp it out in the first place; it’s definitely not a bad idea to throw an LED light bar onto your Wrangler. While newer LED headlights and fog lights certainly help you see well at night, driving off-pavement in the dark is much more difficult than heading out to pick up dinner on a well-paved road.
Light bars shine further than your standard headlight options, meaning that you can see more of the road ahead. Plus, it’ll be easier to spot wildlife and creatures. Whether you fear bears and wolves or whatever cryptic legends you may believe in, an LED light bar can give you some much-needed reassurance.
