How To Prepare Jeep Grand Cherokee For Off Road

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Updated: July 26, 2023

For some drivers, going off-road is a job; for others, it`s a rest, adventure, and an opportunity to be in harmony with oneself and nature. But be that as it may, you must be thoroughly prepared for any off-road trip, as usually, off-road challenges greatly strain Jeep Grand Cherokee.

For whatever reason you go off-road, ensure that your Jeep Grand Cherokee can handle it and that if you get stuck somewhere in the dirt, you can get back out.

What factors affect the off-road capability of the Jeep Grand Cherokee?

It is important to understand that not all Grand Cherokee models can perform equally well off-road. For example, an SUV equipped from the factory (or aftermarket) with a high ground clearance (sometimes with the possibility of adjustment), a differential, and a four-wheel drive will definitely show itself off-road, unlike a stock car created for driving in the city. 

Therefore, going far into the forest on a stock “city” vehicle can be risky. The following factors affect how well a Jeep Grand Cherokee performs off-road.

Ground clearance

Ground clearance is one of the most important parameters when it comes to overcoming obstacles. Clearance is the distance from the ground surface to the lowest point of the bottom of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

So Jeep Grand Cherokee models with lower clearance (below 6.5-7 inches) are less suitable for off-roading because they can get stuck in a hole or damage engine or transmission components on a bump or ledge.

Engine displacement

The more powerful engine your Jeep Grand Cherokee has, the easier it overcomes obstacles in the vehicle`s path. If equipped with engines up to 2.0 liters, the vehicle will have a hard time because the motor’s power is not enough to cope with obstacles that will definitely arise off-road (dirt, puddles, pits, and potholes).

Diesel engines are considered the best: with low fuel consumption, they produce the greatest torque at low speeds, making them the most suitable option for off-roading.

Transmission

An equally important component for off-roading is the gearbox of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The automatic gearbox is much more delicate, requires more careful use, and is quite sensitive to shocks and overheating. If you constantly put it under stress (there is no way off-road without it), it will quickly fail. 

In this case, the manual transmission is more durable, reliable, and best suited to the given conditions of use. In addition, the car can only be “rocked” to drive out of a pit or rut using a manual transmission.

Drive Type

In off-road conditions, the type of drive is a decisive factor. Jeep Grand Cherokee’s four-wheel drive is ideal for unpredictable conditions, providing maximum cross-country ability. 

If no all-wheel drive is available, then the front-wheel drive is suitable for bad roads and surfaces, which, together with the car's low weight, is the best option.

AWD vs 4WD

AWD (All-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) are related to Jeep Grand Cherokee’s drivetrain types.  AWD and 4WD are used in vehicles to enhance traction and handling, especially in challenging off-road situations.

AWD was created to improve Jeep Grand Cherokee’s road grip and handling features in different weather conditions.

4WD was developed to withstand off-road challenges and complicated terrain, allowing you to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes, usually offering a low-range gearing option for more torque in difficult situations.

That said, a 4WD system provides higher and much more efficient capabilities needed for off-roading than an AWD system.

Safety systems

The availability of safety and control systems is a big advantage on off-road - TC (Traction Control), ABS (Anti Lock Brake System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), BSMS (Blind Spot Monitoring Systems), and parking sensors - all of them can help you even where there is no road. It is important to keep control of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

How to prepare your Jeep Grand Cherokee for off-roading?

Being a Grand Cherokee owner, you don't have to limit yourself to what is already available from the factory. This means that you can prepare the vehicle for off-road trips on your own.

It all depends on what exactly is included in your plans. If you just want to go out with the family for a picnic or spend time sitting by the river - you do not need to make significant changes to your vehicle.

However, if you're an itchy feet person who aspires to adventures and challenges and you want to go so far where no one has gone before - then you may have to put some effort into upgrading your Jeep Grand Cherokee to make it capable of overcoming any challenges. 

Still, it may require from you not only your desire but additional costs.

Mandatory Improvements

The following list of things should be in the Grand Cherokee in any case, regardless of how far you go - two miles into the woods or even into a distant swamp. Having this set is a must.

Jump Starter Kit

A jump starter kit is important for off-roaders as it allows you to start your Jeep Grand Cherokee`s battery if it fails during the trip. While wandering through distant areas, finding assistance may be complicated. That's why a jump starter kit gives you the confidence that you`ll be able to juice your Grand Cherokee and make it run again without hoping for other off-roaders.
 

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First Aid Kit

Off-roading should be not only joyful but also safe. Wherever you are going, it is vital to have a first aid kit equipped with all the necessary items that will help, if needed, to address minor injuries and ensure timely medical assistance. Double-check that your Jeep Grand Cherokee has the first aid kit with such necessary things as bandages, adhesive plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

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Tool Kit

A complete set of tools is irreplaceable for off-roading. It has to include such necessary tools as wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, a tire pressure gauge, and a portable car jack, which all come in handy when there is a need to make some adjustments or repairs to the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

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Tire Repair Kit

During off-roading, your Grand Cherokee's tires can be susceptible to sharp rocks and other surprises, leading to a puncture or greater tire damage. A tire repair kit, which comprises a tire plug kit, fix-a-flat, and an air compressor, will help you to fix tiny punctures in the tire and reinflate them, making it possible to continue your trip without the need for imminent tire replacement.

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Food and water

When moving into distant off-road places, it's vital to have a sufficient amount of non-perishable food and potable water. Off-roading may be unpredictable sometimes. If you get stuck or some additional issues suddenly arise, food and water will be crucial for your survival while waiting for help.

Warm Clothes

Off-roading often takes you to various places with different weather conditions. A warm temperature in the daytime can significantly drop when night comes or at higher altitudes. Pack warm clothes like jackets, hats, and gloves into your Jeep Grand Cherokee to remain healthy and protect yourself from the cold.

Air Compressor

An air compressor is an important item that helps to adjust tire pressure according to the terrain you face on your journey. Lower tire pressure boosts Jeep Grand Cherokee’s grip on soft surfaces like sand or mud, while higher pressure is needed for rocky terrain. Having a portable compressor in your Grand Cherokee makes it possible to make such adjustments.

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Navigator

Any trip, even offroading, requires a certain waypoint. A navigation system, which can be a GPS device or a smartphone with a map application, is important in assisting you to stay on track, find the way back if you get lost, and find the closest emergency assistance locations.

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Optional Improvements

Alongside the mandatory items, consider the things listed above to have in your Jeep Grand Cherokee to prepare yourself for even more challenging off-roading.

Off-road Rims/Tires

Specifically designed rims and tires allow you to pass through the rough and uneven surfaces. Off-road Jeep Grand Cherokee tires provide higher grip, increased reliability, and greater durability than standard tires. Opt for tires with an aggressive tread pattern suitable for the terrain you want to conquer.

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Lift kit

A lift kit elevates the suspension of a Jeep Grand Cherokee, providing more ground clearance. This mod lets you navigate larger obstacles without causing damage to your undercarriage. 

Lift kits are offered in various sizes, with some providing significantly more clearance than others. It is important to select a lift kit suitable for your planned off-road use and your Jeep Grand Cherokee model year.

However, it is worth mentioning here that lift kits can be applied only to frame vehicles. There are other methods to lift a car with an integrated body. These are, for example, larger tires, coilovers, or spring spacers.

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Skid Plate

A skid plate is a special protection covering and shielding the Jeep Grand Cherokee's main components, such as the engine, transmission, and fuel tank, from rocks, branches, and debris. The skid plate protects all these critical parts underneath the vehicle, so you won't have to worry about possible impacts. 

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Bull Bar

A bull bar, or a grille guard or push bar, is attached to the front of a Jeep Grand Cherokee to secure it from collisions with big animals or other obstacles. It serves as a strong buffer, decreasing the likelihood of damage to the vehicle's body and headlights.

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Winch

A winch is a motorized device with a strong cable that pulls the vehicle out of complicated places. It especially comes in handy when you pass through deep mud, swamps, sand, or steep inclines where your Jeep Grand Cherokee may be stuck.

The winch can be mounted to a tree or other vehicle to remove your off-road vehicle.

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Roof rack

A roof rack is an additional storage space for important equipment or gear. It especially comes in handy for carrying camping gear, repair tools, etc. Ensure the roof rack is properly secured on Jeep Grand Cherokee to handle unpredictable off-road.

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Light bar

A light bar is placed on the front of the Jeep Grand Cherokee`s roof. It was created to improve visibility, especially if there is insufficient illumination or at night. The light bar gives off a strong and focused light, allowing you to detect any possible obstacles and dangers on your way.

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Additional battery

While off-roading, your Jeep Grand Cherokee's electrical system may encounter extra strain, especially if your vehicle has additional items such as winches, light bars, or communication devices.

If you add an extra battery with an isolator, you`ll provide yourself with an additional source of energy and prevent your main battery from running out of electricity.

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Snorkel

A snorkel is a raised air intake system that allows your Grand Cherokee to navigate through water without getting water into the engine. It provides a constant supply of clean, dry air to the engine, making it a vital tool for off-roading in watery or muddy locations.

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What else should you remember before going off-road in Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Before going off-road, you need to ensure that the Jeep Grand Cherokee is ready for this trip as well as you. It means checking that your Jeep Grand Cherokee is in good condition and everything in it works.

For this, you may need:

• Visually inspect the engine: it has to be without cracks, lubricant leaks, antifreeze, or other liquids. There also should be no knocks or extraneous noises in the engine;
• Suspension: check the Grand Cherokee suspension. It should work smoothly without producing strange sounds;
• Brakes - they always must be in good shape and working order;
• Before going off-road - check the level and condition of all technical lubricant fluids, antifreeze, and hydraulic steering fluid;
• Check the fuel level - it should be enough. You don't want to stop in the middle of the road, do you?

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Conclusion

Preparing your Jeep Grand Cherokee for off-roading requires time and effort. Check your vehicle`s components (like engine, transmission, and suspension) and level of fluids (coolant, oil, fuel), and take care to have mandatory items to be with you (first aid kit, tool kit, clothes, food, etc).

Also, afford or install some items to protect your Jeep Grand Cherokee and yourself from issues you may encounter during your trip (off-road rims/tires, lift kit, light bar, winch, bull bar, etc.).

If you have everything (or most of it) before going off-roading, you`ll be sure you and your vehicle are prepared for any unpredictable situation.