The Best Jeep Wrangler Accessories
Not only is the Wrangler is one of the most iconic cars of our time, but it's also an incredibly competent off-roading vehicle right out of the factory. But we all know that just because it's competent doesn't mean it's enough. Whether you're a seasoned Jeep-driver or a freshly-initiated newbie, chances are you're here because you're itching for some upgrades. If you're eager to pull the trigger on some new toys but don't know where to look, have a peek through our favorites.
What to Look For
To bring you the best accessories on the market for the Jeep Wrangler, we looked at the following: What purpose does it serve? How easy is it to install? And what models and years do the accessories fit? For example, the Alien Sunshade mesh cover is an absolute must for those blazingly hot, cloudless days. This protects you from constant sun exposure and can be removed in an instant if you so desire. And for soft-top Jeeps, you’ll likely want a locked storage unit to keep your valuables secure — something like the Bestop Instatrunk. This keeps your possessions hidden and locked away safely. Below we’ll go into further detail on these top-of-the-line Jeep Wrangler accessories.
Alien Sunshade Mesh Shade
Soak up the rays
One of the Wrangler’s standout features is its ability to go topless and doorless. But constant sunlight burning down on you can be a bit much after a while. The folks at Alien Sunshade designed a mesh sunshade that’ll protect you and your crew from nasty UV damage while maintaining that open, breezy feeling. Touting a tough polyester material with double-sewn edges and quality metal grommets, this one’s sure to go the distance so you get your money’s worth. It’s available in a huge variety of colors, too, so you can coordinate it to complement the color of your car’s exterior finish. If you had to get just one Jeep Wrangler accessory, this makes a fine choice.
Pros:
- Polyester is mildew-, stain-, and fade-resistant
- No tools needed to install it
- Doesn’t need to be removed each time you put your car’s top back on
Cons:
- The installation can be a bit tough if you’re doing it alone
Nilight TL-12 Spare Tire Brake Light
Upgrade your visibility
Buy it for the form or buy it for the function — either will do. With this LED-equipped light from Nilight, you can turn the empty space between the rims of your spare tire into a third brake light. This not only boosts your car’s style points but also makes your vehicle more visible on the road, too. The housing shell on which the lights are mounted is made of tough ABS plastic and the lights themselves are bright enough that you can brag about them to your friends.
Pros:
- Easy to install, even if you’re not particularly handy
- Great value for the cost
- Excellent gift for Jeep owners
Cons:
- Not suitable if you plan on using a rear backup camera
Hooke Road Front Grill Clip-In Deflector Guard
Armor up
Looking for grille protection to ensure gravel and the like don’t find their way into the internals of your Wrangler? This sleek-looking set of grille inserts has your car covered. Made from high-quality ABS plastic, these seven inserts are easy to install, supremely affordable, and effective in the field. On top of that, they’re rust-, corrosion-, and peel-resistant. This should be an especially attractive buy for those who bought a Jeep to go off-roading.
Pros:
- Super inexpensive
- Matte black finish gives them a look of understated elegance
- You don’t need any tools to install these
- They don’t require any permanent modifications to your Wrangler
Cons:
- Won’t fit certain Wranglers that already have inserts (like the 75th-anniversary edition, for example)
- Grille inserts like these block some airflow from the radiator, which could be problematic if your Jeep is prone to overheating
Bestop Matte Black Instatrunk
Enjoy some peace of mind
If your Jeep has a soft top, you’re probably sick of having to worry about your Wrangler being broken into. A thief with a knife can make your Jeep’s soft-top look like Swiss cheese in just a few seconds. Fortunately, the Instatrunk keeps would-be crooks at bay by providing you with a lockable storage container to fit into the back of your car. Especially useful for those living in cities or traveling through densely-populated regions, Bestop’s Instatrunk has won a loyal following.
Pros:
- Designed to seal up against the closed tailgate
- Everything you need to install it is included, including detailed instructions
- Easy to assemble or disassemble at a moment’s notice
Cons:
- A bit costly, but it’s never a bad idea to invest in some extra security for your valuables
Jammock 2.0 Jeep Hammock
Such great heights
Sure, there are plenty of utilitarian accessories out there that are very useful in all types of practical ways, but what if you’re looking for something different? Perhaps you’re seeking something that’ll impress your geeky Jeep pals and the uninitiated common folk alike. If so, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more fitting product than the Jammock. This ingenious strip of high-strength nylon was designed to transform the top of your car into a hammock lounge when the roof is up. Once you install this marvel, you can kick back, dangle your feet over the windshield, and enjoy the day’s beauty from the best seat in town.
Pros:
- The materials are top-quality, so the hammock can endure some wear
- Made in America and designed by a veteran-owned company
- Does double-duty as a windbreaker and a sun cover, too
- Can support up to 350 pounds
Cons:
- If you intend to use it as a sunshade, be prepared for it to make loud noises as it flaps in the wind
Frequently Asked Questions
My friend or loved one has a Wrangler, how do I know if the accessories on this list will fit their Jeep?
Always check the manufacturer’s description of the product. You’ll also have to determine the year and model of Jeep they have. Although some products are explicitly designed with older Wranglers in mind, most accessories will tend to fit newer Wranglers better.
What is the “Jeep wave” that I keep reading about?
When you become the owner of a Jeep, you’re not just driving any old car like all the other squares; no, you’ve joined an exclusive order. If you plan to live up to this noble honor, you’ll have to learn to employ the Jeep wave. As you pass a fellow Jeep driver, you’ll notice that they give you a wave. Make sure you return the wave. Showing that you understand this crucial bit of etiquette is a prerequisite to being accepted by the Jeep community.
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