The 2018 Jeep Cherokee is a versatile SUV, ready for both daily commutes and off-road adventures. But to truly maximize its potential and tailor it to your specific needs, the right accessories are essential. This comprehensive guide will explore the best 2018 Jeep Cherokee accessories, covering everything from protection and performance to style and convenience. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or a city dweller, you'll find valuable insights to enhance your Cherokee experience.
Why Accessorize Your 2018 Jeep Cherokee?
Unleash Your 2018 Jeep Cherokee's Potential: A Deep Dive into Must-Have Accessories
Accessorizing your Cherokee isn't just about aesthetics; it's about functionality and personalization.
- Protection: Accessories like floor mats, seat covers, and splash guards protect your vehicle's interior and exterior from wear and tear.
- Performance: Upgrades like lift kits and performance tires can improve off-road capability and handling.
- Convenience: Items like cargo organizers, roof racks, and remote start systems can make your daily life easier.
- Style: Personalize your Cherokee's appearance with custom wheels, grille inserts, and lighting upgrades.
- Resale Value: Well-chosen accessories can increase your Cherokee's resale value by demonstrating care and maintenance.
Essential Protection Accessories
Protecting your investment is paramount, and these accessories are designed to do just that.
1. Floor Mats and Liners:
- Purpose: Protect your Cherokee's carpet from dirt, mud, spills, and wear.
- Types:
- All-Weather Floor Mats: Made from durable rubber or plastic, these mats are designed to trap water, snow, and mud. They're easy to clean and provide excellent protection.
- Carpeted Floor Mats: Offer a more luxurious feel and can be customized to match your interior. However, they require more maintenance and aren't as effective at containing spills.
- Floor Liners: Provide the most comprehensive protection, extending up the sides of the footwells to contain spills and debris. Brands like WeatherTech and Husky Liners are known for their precise fit and durability.
- Pro Tip: Choose floor mats or liners that are specifically designed for the 2018 Jeep Cherokee to ensure a perfect fit and prevent slippage.
2. Seat Covers:
- Purpose: Shield your seats from stains, tears, and fading, especially important if you have kids, pets, or frequently transport dirty items.
- Types:
- Custom-Fit Seat Covers: These covers are designed to perfectly match the contours of your Cherokee's seats, providing a snug and professional look.
- Universal Seat Covers: More affordable but may not fit as well as custom-fit options. Ensure they are compatible with your seat's features, such as airbags and seat belts.
- Material: Options include neoprene (water-resistant), leatherette (easy to clean), and fabric (comfortable).
- Based on my experience: Neoprene seat covers are a great choice if you frequently participate in outdoor activities, as they're water-resistant and easy to clean.
3. Cargo Liners and Organizers:
- Purpose: Protect your cargo area from spills, scratches, and dirt. Organizers help keep your belongings tidy and prevent them from sliding around.
- Types:
- Cargo Liners: Made from durable rubber or plastic, these liners provide a protective barrier for your cargo area.
- Cargo Organizers: Available in various configurations, including collapsible bins, dividers, and nets, to keep your cargo area organized.
- Cargo Nets: Secure loose items and prevent them from shifting during transit.
- Common mistakes to avoid are: Buying a cargo liner that doesn't fit properly or is made from cheap, flimsy material. Invest in a quality liner that will provide long-lasting protection.
4. Mud Flaps and Splash Guards:
- Purpose: Protect your Cherokee's paint from mud, rocks, and road debris kicked up by the tires.
- Types:
- Molded Mud Flaps: Designed to match the contours of your Cherokee's body, providing a seamless and integrated look.
- Universal Mud Flaps: More affordable but may require some modification to fit properly.
- Installation: Most mud flaps are easy to install with basic tools and hardware.
Enhancing Performance and Off-Road Capability
If you're looking to take your 2018 Jeep Cherokee off the beaten path, these accessories will significantly enhance its performance.
1. Lift Kits:
- Purpose: Increase ground clearance, allowing you to install larger tires and improve off-road capability.
- Types:
- Spacer Lift Kits: The most affordable option, using spacers to lift the body of the vehicle. Best for light off-roading and cosmetic upgrades.
- Suspension Lift Kits: Replace the factory suspension components with longer springs and shocks, providing a more significant lift and improved off-road performance.
- Considerations: Lifting your Cherokee can affect its handling and fuel economy. Consult with a professional installer to ensure proper installation and alignment.
2. Off-Road Tires:
- Purpose: Provide superior traction and grip on various terrains, including mud, sand, and rocks.
- Types:
- All-Terrain Tires: A good compromise between on-road comfort and off-road performance.
- Mud-Terrain Tires: Designed for extreme off-road conditions, with aggressive tread patterns and reinforced sidewalls.
- Choosing the Right Tires: Consider your driving style and the type of terrain you'll be encountering. Ensure the tires are compatible with your Cherokee's wheel size and load rating.
3. Skid Plates:
- Purpose: Protect vulnerable underbody components, such as the oil pan, transmission, and transfer case, from damage when off-roading.
- Materials: Typically made from steel or aluminum, providing a durable shield against rocks and other obstacles.
- Installation: Skid plates are usually bolted directly to the frame of the vehicle.
4. Rock Sliders:
- Purpose: Protect the rocker panels from damage when navigating rocky terrain.
- Design: Heavy-duty steel bars that mount to the frame of the vehicle, providing a sturdy barrier against rocks and other obstacles.
- Benefit: Can also serve as a step for easier access to the vehicle.
Style and Appearance Accessories
Personalize your 2018 Jeep Cherokee with these accessories to make it stand out from the crowd.
1. Wheels and Rims:
- Purpose: Enhance the appearance of your Cherokee and can also improve performance.
- Types:
- Alloy Wheels: Lighter than steel wheels, improving handling and fuel economy.
- Steel Wheels: More durable and affordable, ideal for off-roading.
- Considerations: Ensure the wheels are compatible with your Cherokee's bolt pattern and offset.
2. Grille Inserts:
- Purpose: Add a unique and aggressive look to your Cherokee's front end.
- Materials: Available in various materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic.
- Installation: Most grille inserts are easy to install with basic tools.
3. Lighting Upgrades:
- Purpose: Improve visibility and enhance the appearance of your Cherokee.
- Types:
- LED Headlights: Brighter and more energy-efficient than halogen headlights.
- Fog Lights: Improve visibility in foggy or snowy conditions.
- Light Bars: Provide powerful illumination for off-road driving.
- Regulations: Ensure that any lighting upgrades comply with local traffic laws.
4. Decals and Graphics:
- Purpose: Add a personal touch to your Cherokee's exterior.
- Options: Available in a wide range of designs, colors, and sizes.
- Installation: Decals can be applied easily with a squeegee and some patience.
Convenience and Utility Accessories
These accessories will make your daily life with your 2018 Jeep Cherokee more convenient and enjoyable.
1. Roof Racks and Cargo Carriers:
- Purpose: Increase cargo capacity, allowing you to transport items like luggage, bikes, kayaks, and skis.
- Types:
- Roof Racks: Provide a base for attaching other accessories, such as cargo carriers, bike racks, and kayak carriers.
- Cargo Carriers: Enclosed containers that attach to the roof rack, providing weatherproof storage.
- Weight Capacity: Ensure that the roof rack and cargo carrier are rated to handle the weight of your cargo.
2. Remote Start System:
- Purpose: Allow you to start your Cherokee from a distance, warming it up in cold weather or cooling it down in hot weather.
- Installation: Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper integration with your Cherokee's electrical system.
3. Trailer Hitch:
- Purpose: Allow you to tow trailers, campers, and other recreational vehicles.
- Class: Choose a trailer hitch that is rated to handle the weight of your trailer.
- Wiring Harness: A wiring harness is required to connect the trailer's lights to your Cherokee's electrical system.
4. Phone Mounts:
- Purpose: Keep your phone within easy reach while driving.
- Types:
- Dashboard Mounts: Attach to the dashboard with a suction cup or adhesive.
- Vent Mounts: Clip onto the air vents.
- Magnetic Mounts: Use a magnet to hold your phone in place.
- Safety: Choose a phone mount that doesn't obstruct your view of the road.
Choosing the Right Accessories: Factors to Consider
With so many accessories available, it's important to choose the right ones for your needs and budget. Consider these factors:
- Your Driving Style: Do you primarily drive on the road, or do you frequently venture off-road?
- Your Budget: Accessories can range from inexpensive to quite costly. Set a budget and stick to it.
- Quality: Invest in high-quality accessories that will last and provide reliable performance.
- Installation: Some accessories are easy to install yourself, while others require professional installation.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the accessories are compatible with your 2018 Jeep Cherokee's trim level and features.
Where to Buy 2018 Jeep Cherokee Accessories
You can find 2018 Jeep Cherokee accessories at various retailers, including:
- Jeep Dealerships: Offer genuine Mopar accessories that are specifically designed for your Cherokee.
- Online Retailers: Sites like Amazon, Quadratec, and ExtremeTerrain offer a wide selection of accessories from various brands.
- Auto Parts Stores: Stores like AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts carry a variety of accessories for your Cherokee.
- Specialty Off-Road Shops: Offer a wide range of performance and off-road accessories.
Final Thoughts
Accessorizing your 2018 Jeep Cherokee is a great way to personalize it, enhance its performance, and protect your investment. By carefully considering your needs and budget, you can choose the right accessories to make your Cherokee truly your own. From essential protection to performance upgrades and stylish enhancements, the possibilities are endless. So, take the time to explore the options and unleash your 2018 Jeep Cherokee's full potential! Remember to always consult your owner's manual and follow manufacturer's instructions when installing any accessories. For more information on Jeep Cherokee maintenance, you can visit trusted sources like Kelley Blue Book [https://www.kbb.com/].