The Jeep Wrangler is not only versatile when it comes to the driving experiences it provides. The vehicles themselves come with many options and choices regarding feature add-ons. Whether you want to enhance the lift for a more exciting off-roading experience or desire a hard top over a soft top, you can have a hand in building a Jeep Wrangler that fits your needs.
Nevertheless, sometimes the Jeep Wrangler stock options aren’t always sufficient to build a vehicle that meets your expectations. If you’re wondering what’s offered in the Jeep Wrangler manufacturer options and what you can do yourself, along with what upgrades you should put at the top of your list, take a look at our insights below.
Determining What Your Jeep Needs Are
Before you select those Jeep JL stock options to add or swing by an aftermarket supplier to make your order, it’s helpful to decide your needs. The last thing you want to do is go over budget and spend on options that don’t provide value.
For example, if you know you’re going off roading in deeply forested areas, you may want to spring for the Jeep package with powerful LED lights. Additionally, if you’re driving in an area known for high precipitation in the form of rain and snow, getting a factory installation for a hard top may make more sense.
Here are a few needs that you should consider as you decide:
- Budget – Those one-off add-ons can add up over time. Before adding those upgrades to your cart, ensure you know how much you want to spend so you aren’t unprepared for the price.
- Climate – What’s the weather like in your area? It will play a massive part in deciding what add-ons you select. For example, a location that gets a lot of rain and snow can make it harder to take advantage of upgrade like half doors.
- Driving patterns – This section is all about off roading. If this activity is a typical pastime, you’ll have to plan out the upgrades and add-ons you need. Steel bumpers, upgraded axle assemblies, LED lights, lift-kit packages, and bigger tires, will need to be on your radar.
Once you determine your needs, you can prioritize upgrades to complement your driving patterns.
Manufacturer Options Available
When it comes to Jeep manufacturer options, there are many features to choose from. Here are some of the common ones that you may be interested in:
- Hard and soft tops – Depending on the trim, you can choose between 3-piece hard tops, mesh or solid sunbonnet tops, and a premium black Sunrider soft top. Prices range from a little under $200 up to over $2,500. Depending on your area’s weather, one option might prove more valuable.
- Door groups – Jeep factory upgrades also include a few door group options. These choices may vary depending on the model. You can choose from dual door groups (lowers only), dual door groups with base uppers, dual door groups with premium uppers, and hinge-gate reinforcement doors. Base uppers are made of a fabric-like material that allows you to easily pull them off, while premium uppers are typically plastic.
- Cold weather package – If you live in a cold climate, then the cold weather package might be an interior factory upgrade you want. It comes with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and in some configurations, a remote-start system.
- Safety group – The Jeep comes with on-road features that can enhance your safety. The safety group upgrade comes with blind-spot detection, LED tail lamps, a rear park assist system, and an injection molded black rear bumper.
- Xtreme Recon 35-inch tire package (Off-roading package) – Depending on the trim, you may have the option to outfit your Jeep Wrangler for off roading with this package. It comes with various off-road-related upgrades like 35-inch tire suspension, hinge-gate reinforcement, different axle configurations like the anti-spin differential rear axle, 17-inch x 8.0-inch Beadlock-capable wheel, and a variety of other upgrades. This package comes in at almost $4,000. Again, this package is only offered on specific trims, so if you need items for off roading and this option isn’t available, then aftermarket accessories are necessary.
- LED Headlights – Depending on the model, you may have the option to upgrade your headlights from halogen to the more powerful LED.
These are some of the Jeep Wrangler stock options for optional upgrades. While you might be tempted to select these upgrades right from the manufacturer, it may make more sense to wait and get some of these accessories later from an aftermarket supplier.
Is it Worth Adding Now or Later
There are advantages to saving some of these upgrades after getting the vehicle. Here are some of the reasons why you may want to wait to install accessories:
Better prices – Aftermarket accessories are typically more affordable than OEM upgrades. For example, soft tops directly from Jeep start a little under $1,400, while you can find options around $1,000 on 4 Wheel Parts.
More options – While Jeep does offer some alternatives for each upgrade category, you can find even more choices at aftermarket suppliers. If you have a specific preference for a brand or are seeking a specific feature or color, the manufacturer may not offer that, while you’re likely to find it aftermarket.
Be sure about your choices – You may think a specific upgrade is beneficial before you get your Jeep Wrangler. Yet, you may change your mind when you receive the vehicle. Sometimes, it’s good to take your time to be sure about the upgrades you want to make, and you might need to get the car first before making a final decision.
Aftermarket accessories may perform better – Depending on the item, you may find that an aftermarket accessory or upgrade works better than the Jeep Wrangler stock option. This is where reviews will come in handy. Taking time to wait until after you get your Jeep will allow you to research the products to ensure you’re getting the highest quality item.
If you’re interested in making those upgrades but want to see your aftermarket options, take a look at our inventory at 4 Wheel Parts. We have many product options that can help you enhance the functionality of your Jeep Wrangler.
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