5 Fun Aesthetic-Focused Jeep Wrangler Mods

When you’re looking for a used Jeep Wrangler dealer, you’re not just trying to find a commuter vehicle. You’re looking for something you can fix-up, show off, and take off-roading on the weekends. Sure, it’ll also get you to work and back just like any other vehicle would, but the Wrangler goes beyond that. The Jeep Wrangler is timeless, too, so no matter what model year you get, you can easily find parts to fix it up and make it look better.

There are a lot of mods out there. So many that it can get overwhelming fast. That’s why we’re narrowing it down for you here. There are mods for performance, aesthetics, and much more. We’re going to focus on interior and exterior mods designed specifically for aesthetic appearance. Performance mods are fun and all, but they mean nothing if your Jeep can’t look tough, too. It has to fit the part, which is why we’re excited to show you these top five Wrangler mod options.

What Is a Jeep Wrangler “Mod?”

A “mod” is simply any modification you make to your Wrangler. Anything that’s not “stock” is considered a mod. In this case, we’re focusing specifically on aesthetic appeal. So, these mods are designed specifically with looks in mind, although some may offer additional benefits. You can also get mods that enhance off-roading capability, increase engine performance, or make camping a breeze.

Technically, all vehicles come with options for “mods.” However, the Wrangler is the most modifiable vehicle out there. Whether your aim is fun, convenience, or both, there are several Jeep Wrangler mods available. But let’s get you started with aesthetic mods for now.

Grille Inserts

You’ve probably passed Jeeps on the road and have seen what appear to be decals within their front grilles. It almost looks as if their grille mesh has been hand-painted. Whether it’s an American flag or a skull and crossbones, these grille inserts are actually much easier to obtain than you’d think!

These fancy grilles are not painted or custom-made. They’re nothing more than inserts with specific decals on them. All you have to do is research different patterns and purchase the grille insert that appeals to you most. Once you get it, simply open the hood, remove the grille’s connectors, slide the insert in, and you’ve got a brand-new front-end aesthetic appeal. There’s a little bit more to the installation process than that, of course, but each product comes with its own unique instructions.

Grille inserts are a nice, inexpensive way to customize your Jeep’s look. They’re cheaper than a brand-new grille, but they still add their own custom flare. Developers make these inserts for multiple Wrangler generations, too, all the way back to 1976! So, no matter what used Jeep Wrangler year you get, feel free to spice things up with a grille insert!

Front-End Grilles

If you want to take it a little further by adding on a full-on grille, you can choose from several different Wrangler-unique grille designs. Some of these options will cover the entire front area, while others can easily be paired with grille inserts. The possibilities here are endless. You can even buy Wrangler grilles that come with their own specific inserts!

The “Gladiator” grille is one popular design, which quite literally makes your Jeep look tough and angry. This design makes the headlights look like eyes and gives the grill area a “mouth,” per se. The “Deep Woods” option is popular as well. It includes triangular designs that look like angry teeth!

That said, there are a ton of different varieties you can add to your Wrangler, including grilles with built-in LED light bars. If your Jeep is a popular color, you can even find body-colored grilles to match your model. If you’ve got a unique exterior shade, simply buy the “paintable grille” and match it up yourself. No matter what route you choose here, a grille mod is a great way to liven up your Wrangler.

Headlight Bezels and Rings

Want to make those eyes pop? Just like eyeshadow and mascara, headlight bezels and light rings work together to create “additional beauty.” Adding these to your Wrangler can really make it pop, especially if you implement grille inserts and/or a new grille.

Your headlight “bezels” are essentially the trim that goes around your headlights. These come in several different colors and styles, but most Jeepers tend to stick with black or chrome. (You can even add these around your fog lights, too!)

The “light rings” are colored LED headlights. You can purchase these in one specific color, or you can spend a little extra and get multi-colored light rings. While you can switch between different colors, some light ring add-ons will even flash or follow a color-changing pattern. You can install both of these yourself at home, or you can have an experienced Jeep workshop or dealership do the work.

Body Armor

The Wrangler is pretty tough on its own, so no, it doesn’t need a set of armor for additional protection on the highway. However, Jeep Wrangler body armor is a nice aesthetic choice that also benefits off-roaders.

You can purchase body armor that covers multiple areas of the Jeep. If you want something small, you can go simple and add on “cowl guards,” which lie at the upper corners of your hood. Or, you can purchase corner pieces, rear panels, and even entire door panels. It’s even possible to get body armor “deflectors” or “bug guards.”

Whether used minimalistically or on every nook and cranny you can find, Wrangler body armor makes the vehicle look tougher. Plus, it helps protect your Jeep’s paint from trail debris. It’s a win-win option.

Fender Flares

Most Wrangler models come with fender flares. However, some used Jeep Wranglers don’t include fender flares. Sometimes, even when a Wrangler is equipped with fender flares, buyers may want to switch them up a little.

Stock Wranglers include either painted flares or plastic ones. These are all one standard size depending on which Wrangler generation you get. However, fender flare mods range in shape and design. You can get everything from smaller, tubular flares to flat, barricade flares. It’s also possible to choose from “wide,” “slim,” and “medium” widths.

These, like body armor, are both handy and aesthetically appealing. When you add on fender flares, you’re protecting the Wrangler’s paint from damage, as well as keeping the mud build-up lower. And you get to look extra cool in the process!

Ready to Customize Your Wrangler?

There are tons of ways to make your Wrangler perform better and look cooler. Even a 2000 Wrangler model can look just as cool as a new one when you give it the proper love and care. In addition to the top five aesthetic mods for Wranglers that we mentioned today, you can also add on a tire cover, tail light cages, and bike racks.

The party isn’t just in the back when you mod a Wrangler. While tire covers and bike racks are handy, the front stays plenty busy, too, with its lights, grilles, bug guards, and the likes. But you’ll definitely want to have some balance there. Remember that it’s okay to start small here. Just keep adding on more as you can afford it, and you’ll have the Wrangler of your dreams in no time. For any modifications you might need or for just a helping hand, call or visit us at Orange Coast. We’re the Wrangler experts.