2020 Jeep Gladiator: Best Exterior Accessories
So, you've got yourself a 2020 Jeep Gladiator, huh? Awesome! Now, it's time to make it truly yours. The Gladiator is already a beast, but with the right exterior accessories, you can transform it into an even more capable and head-turning machine. Let's dive into some of the best upgrades to personalize your Gladiator and enhance its off-road prowess.
Bumpers: Armor Up and Stand Out
Bumpers are more than just cosmetic upgrades for your 2020 Jeep Gladiator; they're essential for protection and functionality. Upgrading your stock bumpers to aftermarket options can significantly improve your Gladiator's approach and departure angles, making it more capable on challenging terrain. Steel bumpers offer superior protection against rocks, trees, and other obstacles you might encounter on the trail.
When choosing a bumper, consider factors like the material (steel or aluminum), design (full-width, stubby, or mid-width), and features (winch mount, D-rings, or integrated lighting). Full-width bumpers provide maximum protection, while stubby bumpers offer better clearance for larger tires. Mid-width bumpers strike a balance between protection and maneuverability. A winch mount is a must-have if you plan on doing any serious off-roading, as it allows you to install a winch for self-recovery or assisting others. D-rings provide convenient attachment points for tow straps and recovery gear. Integrated lighting, such as LED fog lights or driving lights, can enhance visibility in low-light conditions. Popular brands like ARB, Fab Fours, and Rough Country offer a wide range of bumpers for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator, so you're sure to find one that fits your needs and budget. Remember to check the weight ratings and ensure compatibility with your Gladiator's other accessories before making a purchase.
Winches: Get Unstuck and Help Others
Speaking of getting unstuck, a winch is arguably the most important recovery tool you can have on your 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Whether you're bogged down in mud, sand, or snow, a winch can provide the pulling power needed to extract your vehicle from a sticky situation. It's also a valuable tool for assisting other vehicles that may be stranded.
When choosing a winch, consider the pulling capacity, rope type (steel cable or synthetic rope), and motor type (series-wound or permanent magnet). The pulling capacity should be at least 1.5 times the weight of your Gladiator. Synthetic rope is lighter and safer than steel cable, but it's also more expensive. Series-wound motors are more durable and offer better performance under heavy loads, while permanent magnet motors are more efficient and quieter. Popular winch brands like Warn, Smittybilt, and Superwinch offer a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets. Remember to factor in the cost of a winch mount if your bumper doesn't already have one. Also, consider purchasing a winch accessory kit that includes essential items like gloves, a tree saver strap, and a snatch block. These accessories can help you safely and effectively use your winch in various recovery situations. A winch is a worthwhile investment for any serious off-roader, providing peace of mind and the ability to overcome challenging obstacles.
Rock Sliders: Protect Your Investment
Okay, guys, let's talk about protecting your Gladiator's rocker panels. Rock sliders (also known as rock rails) are essential for preventing damage from rocks, trees, and other trail hazards. These heavy-duty bars mount to the frame of your vehicle and provide a buffer between the body and the terrain. Without rock sliders, your rocker panels are vulnerable to dents, scrapes, and even punctures, which can be costly to repair.
When choosing rock sliders, consider the material (steel or aluminum), mounting style (bolt-on or weld-on), and design (flat or angled). Steel sliders offer superior strength and durability, while aluminum sliders are lighter and resist corrosion. Bolt-on sliders are easier to install, while weld-on sliders provide a stronger and more secure attachment. Flat sliders offer maximum protection, while angled sliders provide better clearance for larger tires. Popular brands like Poison Spyder, MetalCloak, and Rock Hard 4x4 offer a wide range of rock sliders for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Look for sliders that are specifically designed for your Gladiator model and provide adequate coverage of the rocker panels. Consider the thickness of the steel or aluminum used in the construction, as this will affect the overall strength and durability of the sliders. Investing in a good set of rock sliders is a smart way to protect your Gladiator's body and preserve its value.
Fender Flares: Cover Your Tracks (and Tires)
Fender flares serve multiple purposes on your 2020 Jeep Gladiator. They provide additional tire coverage, protecting your vehicle from mud, rocks, and other debris kicked up by your tires. They also help to maintain compliance with local laws regarding tire coverage. In addition, fender flares can enhance the appearance of your Gladiator, giving it a more aggressive and customized look.
When choosing fender flares, consider the material (plastic, steel, or aluminum), style (flat, pocket-style, or tube-style), and width (narrow or wide). Plastic flares are lightweight and affordable, while steel and aluminum flares offer greater durability and protection. Flat flares provide a clean and minimalist look, while pocket-style flares add a rugged and aggressive touch. Tube-style flares offer maximum tire clearance and protection. Narrow flares provide minimal tire coverage, while wide flares offer more extensive coverage for larger tires. Popular brands like Bushwacker, Smittybilt, and Mopar offer a variety of fender flares for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Consider the overall style and design of your Gladiator when choosing fender flares, and make sure they complement the other accessories you have installed. Also, check the local laws in your area regarding tire coverage to ensure that your fender flares comply with regulations. Properly installed fender flares can enhance the appearance and functionality of your Gladiator while protecting it from damage.
Lighting: Illuminate the Night
Don't get caught in the dark! Upgrading your lighting is a must for any serious off-roader. Auxiliary lights can greatly improve visibility in low-light conditions, allowing you to navigate trails safely and confidently. Whether you're driving at night, in fog, or in heavy rain, additional lighting can make a significant difference in your ability to see and be seen.
Consider adding LED light bars, fog lights, driving lights, and rock lights to your 2020 Jeep Gladiator. LED light bars provide a powerful and focused beam of light, ideal for illuminating the trail ahead. Fog lights provide a wide and diffused beam of light, perfect for cutting through fog and haze. Driving lights provide a longer and narrower beam of light, suitable for high-speed driving on dark roads. Rock lights illuminate the ground around your vehicle, helping you to avoid obstacles and navigate rocky terrain. Popular brands like Rigid Industries, Baja Designs, and KC HiLiTES offer a wide range of lighting options for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. When choosing lighting, consider the light output (lumens), beam pattern (spot, flood, or combo), and color temperature (Kelvin). Higher lumen outputs provide brighter light, while different beam patterns are suited for different applications. Lower color temperatures (around 3000K) produce a warmer and more natural light, while higher color temperatures (around 6000K) produce a cooler and whiter light. Properly installed and aimed lighting can greatly enhance your visibility and safety while off-roading.
Bed Racks and Storage Solutions: Gear Up for Adventure
Maximize your Gladiator's cargo-carrying capacity with bed racks and storage solutions. These accessories allow you to securely transport gear, equipment, and supplies for your adventures. Whether you're camping, overlanding, or simply hauling cargo, a bed rack or storage system can help you stay organized and prepared.
Consider adding a bed rack, bed slide, tonneau cover, or storage drawers to your 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Bed racks provide a platform for mounting rooftop tents, cargo boxes, and other accessories. Bed slides allow you to easily access gear stored in the bed of your truck. Tonneau covers protect your cargo from the elements and keep it out of sight. Storage drawers provide a secure and organized way to store tools, equipment, and other items. Popular brands like Yakima, Thule, and Decked offer a variety of bed racks and storage solutions for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Consider the type of activities you'll be using your Gladiator for when choosing these accessories, and make sure they are compatible with your other modifications. A well-equipped bed rack or storage system can greatly enhance the versatility and functionality of your Gladiator.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, folks! These are just a few of the many exterior accessories available for the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. By carefully selecting the right upgrades, you can transform your Gladiator into a truly unique and capable machine. Remember to prioritize functionality and protection when choosing accessories, and always consult with a professional if you're unsure about installation or compatibility. Now get out there and start exploring!
