

Assessing Your Jeep
Conduct a thorough inspection, carefully checking each of the following components:
Tires
Tires wear out over time, and as the only contact between your Jeep and the terrain it’s traversing, it’s important that they’re in tip-top condition. Check the tread and alignment to ensure you’re ready to roll.
Brakes and Steering
Brakes help you stop safely, while the steering system keeps you on track to your next great adventure. So both are undeniably crucial!
Suspension
Unless you go off-road frequently, your certified Jeep’s suspension components typically hold up well over time.
Fenders
Rugged exploring requires extra protection from debris, so check that your fenders are functional and in good shape.
Top
Some Jeeps come with removable tops, allowing for open-air adventures. Even hard tops, though, can deteriorate over time. Check your top’s condition for damage.
Winches
Winches are critical off-road gear that should never be neglected.
Check local laws and regulations before making any modifications. While some states don’t have any laws regarding lifting limitations, others have strict requirements that only allow drivers to lift their vehicles a maximum of four inches. Failing to do your research could land you with a hefty fine.
If permitted, you may want to lift your Jeep 4.5 to 6 inches to max out ground clearance and accommodate larger, all-terrain tires. This is recommended for those planning serious off-roading excursions. If you’ve got less rugged adventure on the agenda, a 2- or 3-inch lift will suffice.
Safety Precautions and Guidelines for Working on Your Jeep
As your local Jeep dealership in Charleston, we recommend reading these safety tips before getting started:
- Protect your eyes with safety glasses to avoid contamination by fluid or debris. Look for 'ANSI standard' stampings or labels on all protective eyewear.
- Have an eye wash solution nearby in case harmful fluids spill or spray.
- Wear mechanic-style gloves to protect your hands, especially when using a torch or welder.
- Use a stable floor jack that is capable of lifting your Jeep as high as you need – and position it in a stable spot.
- Chock tires in both directions.
- Break down a cardboard box to protect your work surface.
- Never put any part of your body under your Jeep if it is not firmly supported on stands. Don’t trust the jack alone.
Fun DIY Upgrade Ideas for First-Time Owners
Looking for simple but effective Jeep mods? These upgrades can be performed at home!
Hood latches: For Jeep Wrangler owners, this is one of the most popular modifications. Hood latches combat looseness around the hood to prevent shaking.
Off-road lighting: Underbody rock lights and off-road lights are great options to boost visibility. Whether you’re driving at night or trekking through dense forests where light is low, amping up your lighting can be a game-changer.
Lift kit: Lift kits are one of the trickier modifications to complete, but they do a great job of enhancing your Jeep’s off-road capabilities while maintaining a smooth ride.
Vector grill kit: Available in a wide variety of custom colors, these full-featured replacement grills add LED light emitters for Low Beam, High Beam, and Dynamic LED DRLs.
Sound system upgrade: User-friendly aftermarket products make it easy to install a higher quality audio system – and enhance your experience behind the wheel! I.
Functional floor mats and seat covers: By choosing easy-to-clean materials, you’ll be able to enjoy off-roading without worrying about damaging your Jeep’s interior. Carpeted mats, rubberized slush mats, and all-weather heavy-duty liners are all popular options.
Interested in Learning More About DIY Jeep Projects? Contact Your Local Hoover CDJR Summerville Dealer Today!
Get in touch to learn more about upgrading your ride! Or stop by to check out our incredible selection of new Jeeps for sale! We’ve also stocked used models as well, including certified pre-owned Jeeps! No Jeep dealer in Charleston beats our adventure-ready inventory, so come see us today!
Need vehicle service? We can help with that too! Contact us today to schedule your Jeep oil change, tire rotation, and more!