Jeep Wrangler JK: Top 5 Regretful Modifications
The Jeep Wrangler is a highly modifiable vehicle, which means there will be good modifications as well as regretful ones. This guide will shine some light on the modifications our forum users regret the most.
This article applies to the Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-present).
The Jeep Wrangler is a vehicle that you can change completely. With exterior components that can be removed in a matter of minutes, interior room for extra things, or numerous aftermarket parts being sold, modifying the Jeep is not an issue, and you will never run out of options. However, there are some modifications that owners can confidently say they regret getting. People always say the cheap mods are the regretful mods, but that's not always true. There are some pricy modifications that people regret, while others loved their cheap modification. Think twice before modifying your Jeep and be sure it is something you will use. Try to avoid modifications that take up unnecessary room, unless you need it of course. We searched the forums for some of the modifications that Jeep Wrangler drivers regret the most; read on to see the mods you should avoid.
Top 5 Regretful Modifications
Tuffy Overhead Console
DIY Cost – $272.99
Professional Cost – $500
Difficulty – Moderate; this job requires mounting the console.
This modification is designed to give you that extra security in your Jeep to store things. It is bolt-on, which means you have to drill in your beloved Wrangler to mount this storage unit. Even though this might sound good for a second, at least until you see the price tag, there are a few things that come to mind. If you want to store something valuable and lock it with a key, you might want it hidden. Extra storage with a lock screams "break in and take as a whole." Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse, a number of forum members complained they hit their heads on it numerous times doing numerous things, meaning they could hit it while trying to get into the Jeep, or while trying to give the wife on the passenger side a kiss on the cheek. All in all, if you want safety, buy extra storage that goes in the trunk, not above the driver's head. If this was safe, Jeep would've incorporated one themselves.
Teraflex Quicker Disconnect
DIY Cost – $160
Professional Cost – $250-300
Difficulty – Moderate; this job requires the removal of various components.
The quick disconnect allows for more front wheel travel to create better traction when off-roading. What is expected from these types of disconnects is a quick release when you get out of the road, enjoying free traveling in front wheels; When you're done, you connect it back the same easy way you've disconnected it and get back on the road. However, the reality is slightly different. Forum members complained that their bushings were extremely tight, so tight that they needed a sledge hammer to disconnect them. That's not all; when you use a sledge hammer to disconnect it, or if you are extremely strong, their bushings tend to get damaged in the process. So, you may have to find new bushings for them after one use. If that's the case, then these fall under our most regretful modifications.
Lange Side Mirrors
DIY Cost – $120
Professional Cost – $250
Difficulty – Moderate; this job requires the removal of the old mirrors.
The Lange side mirrors are the closest thing to a time machine. They bring the look of your Jeep Wrangler back in time to the days of simplicity. They are rugged-looking and give the Jeep a unique look. However, back then, safety was not as much of a concern. This is one modification that will give your Wrangler a good look, if you're into it, but it is a completely useless mod. These mirrors make it very tough to see behind you as they cover such a small area. It's like putting motorcycle mirrors on a tank. So, if you want to change the look of your Jeep, try to think of something else that won't make you cut everyone off.
50" Light Bar
DIY Cost – $130-500
Professional Cost – $500-1,000
Difficulty – Moderate; this procedure requires some electrical skills.
A 50" light bar might sound like a good idea, and it could be rather useful when you're off-roading. However, the common complaint is that it makes a lot of noise. Let's face it: the Jeep Wrangler is not designed to go fast, but 50 miles per hour isn't asking for much. Some owners even went as far as saying that it hurt their gas mileage. This is a modification that can go either way. If you need it and use it on a daily basis, then it could be worth it. However, if you're like the rest of most owners and you use your Wrangler off-road on occasions, then there are plenty of other types of lights that will give you the same shine while not affecting the aerodynamics of your car.
Rough Country Lift
DIY Cost – $500
Professional Cost – $1,000
Difficulty – Difficult; this procedure requires the removal of various heavy-duty suspension components.
The Rough Country lift comes in a variety of heights, shapes and prices; if you know what you want and need, you could end up with a great modification. However, the problem occurs when drivers get the lift, install it, and use it. The lift by itself without different tires or other suspension components tends to eat the bushings extremely quickly. These kits will require a lot of research to make sure it is compatible with everything on your car, including the tires and the type of off-roading you will be doing. The Jeep Wrangler is designed for ultimate off-roading; any more lifting and it becomes very unstable. However, if you insist on going up a few inches on the road, be sure to do a lot of research instead of just buying the kit and installing it.
Related Discussion
- Modifications You Regret - Jk-forum.com
