When you’re out on the trail, you want to be as safe and secure as possible. That’s why you need some of the best aftermarket accessories around. From lift kits to skid plates and everything in between, here are 10 must-have products for your off-road adventures.
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| – Aftermarket accessories can greatly enhance the off-road experience. |
| – Upgrading your vehicle’s suspension improves performance and handling on rough terrains. |
| – Adding off-road bumpers and skid plates provides protection to vital components. |
| – Equipping your vehicle with larger, more durable tires enhances traction and off-road capability. |
| – Installing a winch can be a lifesaver when encountering difficult situations on the trail. |
| – Lighting upgrades, such as LED light bars, improve visibility in low-light conditions. |
| – Upgrading to an aftermarket exhaust system can enhance both performance and sound. |
| – Adding a snorkel allows your vehicle to safely cross water obstacles. |
| – Roof racks provide additional storage space for gear and equipment. |
| – A quality off-road recovery kit is essential for any off-road enthusiast. |
| – Consider your specific off-road needs and preferences when choosing accessories. |
Lift Kits
Lift kits are an essential upgrade for off-roaders and those who want a more aggressive look. They can be installed on any type of vehicle, but they’re most commonly used on trucks, SUVs and Jeeps.
Lift kits raise the height of the vehicle by attaching to a number of points underneath the chassis: suspension struts, spring towers, leaf springs or bump stops (which are basically blocks that prevent tires from hitting the body when driving over bumps).
The amount of lift depends on what kind of kit you buy some provide just a few inches; others provide up to six feet!
The benefits? You’ll have better ground clearance so your 4×4 can handle rough terrain without getting stuck in mud or snow.
Plus it’s easier for people who aren’t tall enough to see over their hoods. Plus it makes your ride look cool AF. And did we mention how great riding around town with an extra foot between you and those other cars feels?
Enhancing your off-road experience can be made easier with the right aftermarket accessories. Check out our guide on how to maximize performance by upgrading your off-road vehicle’s suspension for a smoother off-road adventure.
Off-Road Wheels
When it comes to off-road wheels, there are a number of factors that you’ll want to keep in mind before making a purchase.
The first thing you’ll want to consider is the size of your wheel compared to the size of your vehicle.
If you have an SUV or truck, for example, you might want to go with something larger than 17 inches because these vehicles tend to be taller than most sedans. However if you own a smaller car like an Audi A4 or BMW 320i, then opting for something around 15-16 inches will probably be okay.
Another important consideration when choosing off-road wheels is whether they are strong enough for their intended use.
If they’re going on a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon model which has very little clearance between its axles and ground level then there’s no point getting light aluminum alloy wheels that wouldn’t hold up under heavy loads during extreme driving conditions such as mud slinging or boulder hopping (more on this later).
Finally when considering which type of tread pattern would work best on different types of terrain it’s important not only what kind of terrain will most likely see while off roading but also whether those conditions would require more aggressive tires such as all season radials with deep grooves along their treads which provide excellent traction on both wet pavement surfaces as well as dry ones where normal street tires may skid out easily due lack thereof adequate grip surface area coverage.”
Best Off-Road Wheels for Enhanced Performance
| Wheel Brand | Features |
|---|---|
| Fuel Wheels | – Durable construction for rugged off-road use – Wide range of stylish designs – Enhanced load capacity for heavy-duty applications |
| Method Race Wheels | – Lightweight yet strong alloy construction – Designed for high-performance off-roading – Corrosion-resistant finish for longevity |
| Pro Comp Wheels | – Trusted brand known for quality off-road wheels – Offers a variety of sizes and fitments – Engineered to withstand harsh terrain conditions |
| BFGoodrich Wheels | – Specialized off-road wheel lineup by a renowned tire manufacturer – Designed to complement their off-road tire offerings – Optimal strength and reliability |
| KMC Wheels | – Wide selection of off-road wheel styles – Built with high-grade materials for durability – Accurate fitment options for various vehicle applications |
This table suggests some top brands and their key features for off-road wheels. It provides an overview of each brand’s offerings, including construction quality, design options, and specific benefits for off-road performance.
Winches
Winches are one of the best parts about off-roading. They’re also a necessary accessory to have on hand, especially if you want to be prepared for any type of situation that might arise.
If you’ve never owned a winch before, or if it has been years since the last time you used your winch, it’s important that we take some time to discuss everything from choosing a winch (and mount) to properly using and maintaining them.
Let’s start with what types of winches there are available:
Manual Winch – A manual winch uses a wire rope or synthetic line pulled by hand to lower or raise an object using mechanical advantage. This is generally lighter than other types but requires more physical effort to operate
Semi-Automatic Winch – A semi-automatic model uses hydraulics instead of manpower in order to reduce effort required while still providing plenty of muscle power when needed
Fully Automatic Winch – Most heavy duty models will be fully automatic which means they are powered by hydraulics and can operate without user intervention once set up correctly
Navigating dangerous terrain during off-road driving requires proper safety precautions. Learn valuable safety tips from our article on navigating dangerous terrain to ensure your off-road adventures are both thrilling and secure.
Bumpers
A bumper is a protective device that is attached to the front end of a vehicle. It’s designed to protect the body of the vehicle (and sometimes its occupants) in case of an accident, collision or other impact.
Most bumpers are made from steel or aluminum, but plastic bumpers are also available for some cars.
Bumpers usually have one or more features that enhance their usefulness as protective devices:
Top Off-Road Bumpers for Added Protection
| Bumper Brand | Features |
|---|---|
| ARB | – Heavy-duty steel construction for maximum protection<br>- Built-in winch mounts and recovery points<br>- Designed for off-road compatibility, approach angles, and tire clearance |
| Smittybilt | – Durable steel or aluminum build for rugged off-road use<br>- Available in various styles and finishes to suit different preferences<br>- Integrated light mounts and D-ring mounts for added functionality |
| Warn | – Trusted brand known for quality off-road bumpers<br>- Robust steel construction with reinforced mounting points<br>- Compatible with winches and other accessories for complete customization |
| Fab Fours | – Innovative designs with a focus on both style and off-road functionality<br>- Heavy-duty steel construction with aggressive aesthetics<br>- Options for integrated grille guards and auxiliary light mounts |
| Ranch Hand | – Premium bumpers designed for maximum front-end protection<br>- Constructed from thick steel or rugged materials<br>- Customizable with optional features like winch mounts and brush guards |
Snorkels
Snorkels are devices that allow water to pass through a hose from the engine to the air intake. They’re used in off-road vehicles where there is a possibility of water entering the engine compartment, and they help prevent water from entering the engine.
A snorkel is basically an extension tube that connects your vehicle’s air intake system with external air sources at higher elevations (i.e., above water level). This allows you to go on underwater expeditions without worrying about flooding your engine when you surface for a breath of fresh air!
Exploring the wilderness with your off-road vehicle requires certain survival skills. Be prepared by mastering essential off-road survival techniques outlined in our comprehensive guide on surviving in the wilderness and embark on your off-road journey with confidence.
Skid Plates
Skid plates are made of steel, aluminum, or plastic and designed to protect the underbody of your vehicle. They can be placed in front of the oil pan, transmission, transfer case, or fuel tank.
For those who love off-roading but don’t want to worry about their truck getting damaged on rough terrain, skid plates are a great addition to any off-road vehicle’s arsenal.
Grille Guards
A grille guard is a great option for protecting the front end of your vehicle, particularly when you’re off-roading.
It can help protect the radiator, headlights and grille from damage. A grille guard can also be used to protect other parts of your vehicle such as your oil pan or exhaust system by deflecting rocks and debris outwards away from these areas.
Installing one is quick and easy; most guards require only four bolts to install (two on top, two on bottom). Some models can even come with an optional winch mount at no extra cost!
If you’re looking for a durable, high-quality aftermarket accessory for off-road vehicles, consider installing a grille guard today!
Off-road driving in mud can be challenging without the right know-how. Learn valuable tips from our article on off-road driving in mud to navigate muddy trails like a pro and make the most of your off-road adventures.
Running Boards
Running boards are a great accessory for off-road enthusiasts. If you’re looking to add some extra functionality to your ride, running boards can be handy for both getting in and out of your vehicle, as well as helping you get into your vehicle if you have mobility issues or are recovering from an injury.
They’re also useful if you frequently need to carry large items that don’t fit in the back seat (such as surfboards).
Depending on the model of your vehicle, running boards can be purchased separately or added as part of a larger kit.
Suspension Seats
Suspension seats are made for off-road driving, and they’re more comfortable than regular seats.
They’re also more durable and cost more money than regular seats. But they will make you sit in a more comfortable position while driving, which means that over time it’s easier on your back.
- The best suspension seat manufacturers: *Cobra Seats
- Best Suspension Seats: *Cobra Seats
Safety should be a top priority for off-road enthusiasts. Ensure you’re well-prepared by familiarizing yourself with essential off-road driving safety measures discussed in our guide on off-road driving safety, ensuring a secure and enjoyable off-road experience.
Roof Racks & Carriers
Tired of having to leave your gear behind when you head off-road? A roof rack is the perfect way to carry whatever you need for any occasion.
There are many types of roof racks, and they’re all designed to carry different amounts of weight. Roof racks are a great way to carry extra cargo—whether it’s bikes, kayaks, or luggage!
Driving Lights
Driving lights are a must for off-road driving. They illuminate the road ahead, allowing you to see hazards like rocks and mud holes that might otherwise be invisible in low light situations. Driving lights can be mounted onto the bumper or roof of your vehicle, depending on what you’re looking for.
If you choose to mount them on the roof, they’ll be more visible but they’ll also take up some space and create drag on your vehicle’s airflow (which is important when trying to maintain top speed).
To avoid overheating during extended off-road drives, it’s best not to install more than one hundred watts at any given time meaning that 100W bulbs should be used in pairs rather than individually (two 50W bulbs would equal 100W).
Light Bars
The light bar is a popular off-road accessory that makes it easier to see what’s ahead of you. Light bars can be installed on your vehicle, or mounted to the front or rear bumper. Light bars are also used by many off-roaders as auxiliary lighting and in many different applications, including motorcycles and boats.
Light bars come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but they all serve the same basic purpose: illuminating your path ahead of you when you’re out on an adventure in the wilds of nature (or even just doing some work in the backyard).
Most companies offer light bars designed specifically for trucks and SUVs because these vehicles need more illumination than passenger cars do due to their size and higher ground clearance—but there are also smaller versions for those who want something less bulky looking than traditional truck lights tend towards being!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed reading this article as much as we did writing it. We tried to include all of the best and most popular aftermarket accessories for your Jeep Wrangler, Toyota and any other off-road vehicle.
We also tried to keep things as affordable as possible so there should be something in here for everyone!
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources for further reading on off-road upgrades and modifications:
Popular Mechanics – Essential Gear for Going Off-Road: Learn about the essential gear you’ll need for a successful off-road adventure.
Top Speed – Top Off-Road Upgrades and Modifications for Your 4×4: Discover the top upgrades and modifications to enhance your 4×4’s off-road capabilities.
Mach1 Motor – 7 Best Off-Road Upgrades and Modifications for Your 4×4: Explore seven of the best upgrades and modifications you can make to your 4×4 for optimal off-road performance.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about off-road upgrades and modifications:
Q: What are the key factors to consider when choosing off-road upgrades?
A: When choosing off-road upgrades, it’s important to consider factors such as the terrain you’ll be driving on, the specific capabilities you want to enhance, and your budget for modifications.
Q: Can I install off-road upgrades myself, or do I need professional help?
A: The complexity of off-road upgrades varies, but many can be installed by experienced DIY enthusiasts. However, for complex modifications or ones that may affect your vehicle’s warranty, it’s recommended to consult a professional.
Q: Are there any legal restrictions on certain off-road modifications?
A: Yes, there may be legal restrictions on certain off-road modifications, such as lift kits, tire sizes, and lighting modifications. It’s essential to research and comply with local laws and regulations regarding vehicle modifications.
Q: How do off-road upgrades and modifications affect fuel efficiency?
A: Off-road upgrades and modifications, such as larger tires or aftermarket accessories, can potentially increase fuel consumption due to increased weight and altered aerodynamics. However, the extent of the impact varies depending on the specific modifications made.
Q: Are there any specific maintenance requirements for vehicles with off-road upgrades?
A: Yes, vehicles with off-road upgrades may require additional maintenance. Regular inspections of suspension components, tire rotations, and frequent checks for wear and tear are important to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your modifications.
Hi there! I’m Hellen James, and I’m the author of Unified Off-roads. I’ve been driving off-road for more than ten years, and I’ve had a lot of fun in that time—and a few not-so-great experiences too. But I’ve always wanted to help other people get started off-roading, so I decided to start this blog to share my knowledge with others.
