Side steps for Jeep JL. How to choose the best ones for off-roading and daily driving?
Side steps server multiple functions. For off-road drivers, protecting the sides of the vehicle and doors is crucial. They not only shield against gravel and stones but also help prevent serious dents. So, which side steps should you install on your Jeep to ensure real protection? Explore the different types of side steps for the Jeep JL and choose the model that that best suits your vehicle and driving style.
For protection in extreme conditions. Rock slider side steps for Jeep JL
If you need serious protection for your vehicle’s sides during off-road adventures, choose side steps for the Jeep JL that mount directly to the frame. This type of step allows you to slide over obstacles and supports the vehicle’s weight if it gets stuck. Other mounting options could cause serious body damage.
For maximum protection, angled rock sliders are the best choice. They provide superior defense for the body and paint. However, this design is strictly for protection, meaning they aren’t meant to be used as steps for getting in and out of the vehicle. In short, putting your foot on them is pretty much impossible.
Angled rock sliders side steps mounted to the frame. Tubular design allows you to attach a jack and use a hi-lift to lift the vehicle when needed.
For protection and comfort off-road. Straight side steps for Jeep JL oounted to the frame
If you want side steps that offer both protection and accessibility, straight side steps or flat rock sliders mounted to the frame are a great choice.
Thanks to heir sturdy steel construction and frame-mounted installation, they provide the best off-road protection while also making it easier to enter and exit the vehicle. Additionally, some of the models feature a design that allows you to lift the vehicle using a hi-lift jack if needed. However, this isn’t a standard feature on all flat steps, so be sure to check if the model includes a designated jack point before purchasing.
Straight rock sliders mounted to the frame. Not only protect against flying rocks, branches, and scrapes from rocks but also make it easy to hop in and out of your vehicle.
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For many off-road challenges. Tubular side steps mounted to the frame
If off-road functionality is your priority, tubular side steps are an excellent choice. While you can stand on them to enter the vehicle, flat steps are generally more convenient for this purpose. However, nothing enhances your off-roader’s rugged, aggressive look quite like tubular side steps. Check out top recommendations.
Tubular side steps work similarly to flat. Thay are also mounted to the vehicle’s frame. You can spot them by their rounded edges and usually smaller standing surface. This design, along with the mounting method, makes them perfect for lifting the vehicle with a hi-lift jack when needed.
Since flat steps are simply more comfortable for entering and exiting the vehicle, nothing adds a tougher look to your 4×4 car quite like tubular side steps. Just take a look at our top picks.
Go Rhino side steps mounted to the frame. Their tubular construction allows the use of a hi-lift for rescue purposes. This means they not only provide strong support for a suspended vehicle but can also help pull a Jeep out of a tough spot or when it’s stuck in the terrain.
Steel tubular side steps from Smittybilt. Built for both off-road challenges and everyday comfort, these side steps provide a mounting point for a hi-lift jack and protect the body from scrapes against obstacles. At the same time, they remain comfortable and practical for daily driving. They are mounted to the vehicle’s frame with three attachment points.
Unique tubular steel side steps. Feature distinctive metal inserts that you can paint any color. These steps add a unique look to your vehicle while ensuring safety during off-road adventures.
For everyday comfort and protection in light off-roading. side steps mounted to the body
The second type of side steps attaches directly to the vehicle’s body. However, this installation method reduces their protective capabilities. A heavy impact on such a step could cause irreversible damage to the body. Still, their sturdy steel construction can provide some protection against minor obstacles like branches.
The primary purpose of these steps is to make entering and exiting the vehicle easier, especially for lifted Jeeps. They come in various designs, from flat steps to tubular versions in different configurations, making it easy to find the perfect model for your Wrangler JL.
Flat and straight side steps from Go Rhino feature a perforated, non-slip surface for safe entry and exit.
Drop steps from Rough Country. One-piece design with a step guard and two lowered steps, ideal for highly lifted vehicles. These steps provide extra comfort when getting in and out.
Solid side steps with mixed mounting system. These rugged side steps attach to both the body and frame, offering greater durability on rough terrain. While they can’t support the vehicle’s weight in recovery situations, their solid construction protects against gravel and rocks kicked up by the tires.
For maximum daily comfort. Electric side steps for the JL
What are the best side steps for the Jeep JL for everyday use? For daily driving and purely civilian purposes, the answer is clear: electric side steps. No other type offers more comfort. These retractable steps automatically hide when the doors close and deploy when the doors open, providing a modern, functional, and sleek look.
One of their greatest advantages is that they extend lower than standard steps. Fixed steps need to be positioned higher to avoid contact with road obstacles, especially when traversing steep slopes. With electric steps, this isn’t an issue as they retract while driving. Additionally, if they encounter an obstacle while deploying, they automatically retract to prevent damage.
Many electric side steps are made of aluminum, offering extra corrosion protection. Their non-slip surface ensures safety when entering and exiting vehicle. However, these steps are not suited for off-roading. Even a light impact could severely damage the mechanism, potentially immobilizing the steps entirely.
PowerStep electric side steps from AMP Research. Designed to improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics, with built-in LED lighting for added convenience, making it easier to get into your JL after dark.
Electric side steps from OFD feature adjustable height, allowing for better alignment with the vehicle’s lines. Whether your Jeep is lifted, stock, or undergoing modifications, this model ensures a comfortable entry and exit experience..
Klaudia Kusy
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