The 2018 Jeep Compass offers a compelling blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and Jeep's iconic off-road spirit. While it's a capable vehicle straight from the factory, many owners look to aftermarket parts to personalize their Compass, enhance its performance, or boost its functionality. This guide will delve into the world of 2018 Jeep Compass aftermarket parts, exploring various categories, benefits, considerations, and providing practical advice to help you make informed decisions about upgrading your ride.
What are 2018 Jeep Compass Aftermarket Parts?
Unleash the Potential: A Guide to 2018 Jeep Compass Aftermarket Parts
Aftermarket parts are components manufactured by companies other than the original vehicle manufacturer (OEM), in this case, Jeep. These parts are designed to replace, enhance, or add features to your vehicle, offering a wide range of options from performance upgrades to cosmetic enhancements. For the 2018 Jeep Compass, the aftermarket offers a vast selection catering to various needs and budgets. Whether you're looking to tackle tougher trails, improve fuel economy, or simply give your Compass a unique look, there's likely an aftermarket part to suit your goals.
Why Consider Aftermarket Parts for Your 2018 Jeep Compass?
There are numerous reasons why owners choose to invest in aftermarket parts:
- Personalization: Make your Compass stand out from the crowd with unique styling elements, custom wheels, or upgraded interior accessories.
- Performance Enhancement: Improve off-road capabilities with lift kits, upgraded tires, or skid plates. Boost engine performance with cold air intakes or exhaust systems (note: check local regulations for legality).
- Increased Functionality: Add practical features like roof racks, cargo carriers, or upgraded lighting for enhanced utility and convenience.
- Improved Durability: Replace worn or weak components with stronger, more durable aftermarket parts, extending the life of your vehicle.
- Cost Savings: In some cases, aftermarket parts can be more affordable than OEM replacements, while offering comparable or even superior quality.
Key Categories of 2018 Jeep Compass Aftermarket Parts
The world of aftermarket parts is vast, but here's a breakdown of the most popular categories for the 2018 Jeep Compass:
1. Suspension & Lift Kits:
- Purpose: Lifting the suspension increases ground clearance, allowing for larger tires and improved off-road capability. Lift kits can range from simple leveling kits (raising the front to match the rear) to complete suspension overhauls.
- Benefits: Improved off-road performance, aggressive stance, accommodates larger tires.
- Considerations: Installation complexity (may require professional installation), potential impact on ride quality and handling, potential for increased wear on other components, alignment requirements.
- Types: Leveling kits, spacer lift kits, coil spring lift kits, complete suspension lift kits.
2. Wheels & Tires:
- Purpose: Upgrading wheels and tires can dramatically alter the appearance and performance of your Compass. Larger tires offer increased ground clearance and traction off-road, while aftermarket wheels provide a custom look.
- Benefits: Improved off-road performance, enhanced aesthetics, increased tire options.
- Considerations: Tire size compatibility (check for rubbing issues), wheel offset and backspacing, load rating requirements, impact on fuel economy, speedometer recalibration (may be necessary with significantly larger tires).
- Types: All-terrain tires, mud-terrain tires, street performance tires, alloy wheels, steel wheels.
3. Exterior Accessories:
- Purpose: These parts add style, protection, and functionality to the exterior of your Compass.
- Benefits: Personalized appearance, protection from damage, increased cargo capacity, enhanced visibility.
- Considerations: Installation difficulty, material quality, compatibility with other accessories.
- Types: Roof racks, side steps/rock sliders, brush guards, bumpers (steel or aftermarket), fender flares, hood deflectors, window visors, spare tire carriers.
4. Interior Accessories:
- Purpose: Improve the comfort, convenience, and aesthetics of your Compass's interior.
- Benefits: Personalized style, enhanced comfort, improved organization, added functionality.
- Considerations: Quality of materials, fit and finish, ease of installation.
- Types: Seat covers, floor mats, cargo liners, dash covers, steering wheel covers, shift knobs, center console organizers.
5. Performance Upgrades:
- Purpose: Improve engine performance, fuel economy, or exhaust sound.
- Benefits: Increased horsepower and torque, improved throttle response, enhanced fuel efficiency (potentially), more aggressive exhaust note.
- Considerations: Legality (check local emissions regulations), potential impact on warranty, installation complexity, cost.
- Types: Cold air intakes, exhaust systems (cat-back, axle-back), performance chips/tuners, throttle body spacers.
6. Lighting:
- Purpose: Improve visibility and safety, both on and off-road.
- Benefits: Enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, improved safety, stylish appearance.
- Considerations: Brightness (avoid blinding other drivers), beam pattern, legality (check local regulations), wiring complexity.
- Types: LED headlights, fog lights, auxiliary lights (driving lights, light bars), tail lights, interior LED upgrades.
7. Recovery Gear:
- Purpose: Essential for off-roading, allowing you to safely recover your vehicle if it gets stuck.
- Benefits: Ability to self-rescue in off-road situations, increased safety.
- Considerations: Strength and durability, proper usage techniques.
- Types: Tow straps, D-rings/shackles, winches, traction boards, shovels, Hi-Lift jacks.
Installation Tips and Considerations:
- Research: Before purchasing any aftermarket part, thoroughly research its compatibility with your specific 2018 Jeep Compass model and trim level.
- Read Reviews: Check online reviews and forums to get feedback from other owners who have installed the same part.
- Installation Difficulty: Assess your own mechanical skills and determine if you can handle the installation yourself or if you need to hire a professional.
- Tools: Make sure you have the necessary tools for the installation.
- Instructions: Carefully read and follow the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Safety: Always prioritize safety when working on your vehicle. Use proper safety equipment, such as gloves and eye protection.
- Torque Specs: Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the correct specifications.
- Alignment: After installing suspension or steering components, it's essential to get your vehicle aligned.
Potential Challenges and Solutions:
- Compatibility Issues: Double-check part numbers and fitment charts before purchasing to ensure compatibility.
- Installation Difficulties: If you're struggling with an installation, seek help from a professional mechanic or experienced friend.
- Warranty Concerns: Be aware that installing certain aftermarket parts may void portions of your vehicle's warranty. Check with your dealer or the part manufacturer for clarification.
- Quality Issues: Choose reputable brands and vendors to avoid purchasing low-quality parts that may fail prematurely.
- Increased Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH): Some aftermarket parts, such as aggressive tires or exhaust systems, may increase NVH. Be prepared for a potential change in ride quality.
Price Table for 2018 Jeep Compass Aftermarket Parts
| Part Category | Description | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suspension/Lift Kits | Leveling Kit (2" Front) | $150 - $300 | Simple installation, mainly for aesthetics. |
| 2" Spacer Lift Kit | $200 - $400 | Moderate increase in ground clearance. | |
| 3.5" Full Suspension Lift Kit | $800 - $1500 | Significant increase in ground clearance, more complex installation. | |
| Wheels & Tires | 17" Alloy Wheels (Set of 4) | $600 - $1200 | Price varies greatly based on brand and style. |
| 225/65R17 All-Terrain Tires (Set of 4) | $500 - $800 | Common size for Compass, good balance of on-road and off-road performance. | |
| 235/65R17 Mud-Terrain Tires (Set of 4) | $600 - $900 | More aggressive off-road performance, can be noisier on-road. | |
| Exterior Accessories | Roof Rack (Cross Bars) | $150 - $300 | Essential for carrying cargo on the roof. |
| Side Steps/Running Boards | $200 - $400 | Easier access to the vehicle, especially with a lift. | |
| Front Bumper (Steel, Aftermarket) | $500 - $1000 | Provides increased protection and a more aggressive look. | |
| Interior Accessories | Seat Covers (Front & Rear) | $100 - $300 | Protects seats from wear and tear, can customize the interior look. |
| All-Weather Floor Mats | $80 - $150 | Protects carpets from dirt and moisture. | |
| Performance Upgrades | Cold Air Intake | $150 - $300 | May improve throttle response and fuel economy slightly. Check local regulations. |
| Cat-Back Exhaust System | $300 - $600 | Enhances exhaust sound, may improve performance slightly. Check local regulations. | |
| Lighting | LED Headlight Bulbs | $50 - $150 | Brighter and longer-lasting than halogen bulbs. Ensure proper beam pattern. |
| LED Light Bar (20") | $100 - $300 | Significantly improves visibility off-road. Check local regulations for on-road use. | |
| Recovery Gear | Tow Strap (3" x 30') | $30 - $60 | Essential for vehicle recovery. |
| D-Rings/Shackles (Pair) | $20 - $40 | Used with tow straps for secure connections. |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the brand, vendor, and specific product features. Professional installation costs are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Q: Will aftermarket parts void my warranty?
- A: Potentially, but not necessarily. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers from having their entire warranty voided simply because they installed an aftermarket part. However, if the aftermarket part causes a failure, the dealer may deny warranty coverage for that specific component or system. It's best to consult with your dealer before installing any modifications.
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Q: What size tires can I fit on my 2018 Jeep Compass without a lift?
- A: Generally, you can fit slightly larger tires than stock without a lift, but it depends on the specific tire and wheel combination. A common upgrade is 225/65R17. Always test fit the tires before committing to a purchase to ensure they don't rub against the wheel wells or suspension components.
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Q: Where can I buy aftermarket parts for my 2018 Jeep Compass?
- A: Numerous online retailers specialize in Jeep aftermarket parts, such as Quadratec, ExtremeTerrain, and Morris 4x4 Center. You can also find parts at local auto parts stores and specialty off-road shops.
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Q: How do I choose the right lift kit for my needs?
- A: Consider your intended use for your Compass. If you primarily drive on the road and occasionally venture onto light trails, a leveling kit or a small spacer lift may be sufficient. If you plan on tackling more challenging off-road terrain, a complete suspension lift kit will provide the necessary ground clearance and articulation.
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Q: Is it difficult to install a cold air intake?
- A: Installing a cold air intake is generally a straightforward process that can be done with basic hand tools. However, some kits may require minor modifications or adjustments.
Conclusion
The 2018 Jeep Compass offers a solid foundation for customization and performance enhancement. By carefully selecting and installing aftermarket parts, you can transform your Compass into a personalized machine that reflects your individual style and meets your specific needs, whether it's conquering challenging trails or simply enjoying a more comfortable and stylish ride. Remember to research thoroughly, prioritize safety, and choose reputable brands to ensure a successful and rewarding modification experience. The possibilities are endless – unleash the potential of your 2018 Jeep Compass today!
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