The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is a formidable machine straight from the factory. Built for off-road prowess, it boasts a Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system, Selec-Terrain traction management, and a capable air suspension. However, even with its impressive capabilities, there's always room for improvement and personalization. This guide delves into the world of aftermarket parts for your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, exploring options to enhance performance, protection, and aesthetics, helping you transform your Trailhawk into the ultimate off-road and on-road vehicle.
Why Consider Aftermarket Parts for Your 2017 Trailhawk?
Unleash the Beast: A Guide to Aftermarket Parts for Your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
The Trailhawk is already a well-equipped off-roader. So, why bother with aftermarket parts? The answer lies in tailoring your vehicle to your specific needs and preferences. Perhaps you want to tackle more challenging trails, improve the vehicle's protection from the elements, or simply give it a more aggressive look. Aftermarket parts offer a way to:
- Enhance Off-Road Performance: Upgraded suspension, tires, and recovery gear can significantly improve your Trailhawk's ability to navigate difficult terrain.
- Increase Protection: Rock sliders, skid plates, and bumpers protect vulnerable components from damage.
- Improve Aesthetics: Custom wheels, lighting, and accessories allow you to personalize the look of your Trailhawk.
- Boost Functionality: Roof racks, cargo carriers, and lighting solutions can enhance your Trailhawk's versatility.
Section 1: Suspension Upgrades – Leveling Kits, Lift Kits, and Beyond
The factory air suspension on the Trailhawk is excellent, but it has limitations. Aftermarket suspension upgrades can improve ride quality, increase ground clearance, and allow for larger tires.
- Leveling Kits: These kits typically raise the front of the vehicle by 1-2 inches, leveling out the stance and allowing for slightly larger tires. They are a budget-friendly option for improving aesthetics and mild off-road performance.
- Benefits: Affordable, easy to install, improves aesthetics.
- Considerations: Minimal performance gains, may slightly affect ride quality.
- Lift Kits: Lift kits provide a more significant increase in ride height, ranging from 2 inches to 4 inches or more. They allow for larger tires and significantly improve off-road capability.
- Benefits: Increased ground clearance, allows for larger tires, improved off-road performance.
- Considerations: More expensive than leveling kits, more complex installation, may require additional modifications (e.g., longer sway bar links, extended brake lines).
- Coilover Conversion Kits: These kits replace the factory air suspension with traditional coilover shocks and springs. They offer improved handling, adjustability, and durability.
- Benefits: Improved handling, adjustability, increased durability, eliminates air suspension maintenance.
- Considerations: Expensive, complex installation, eliminates the benefits of the factory air suspension (e.g., automatic leveling, adjustable ride height).
- Important Considerations:
- Lift Height: Consider your intended use when choosing a lift height. A small lift is suitable for mild off-roading, while a larger lift is necessary for more challenging terrain.
- Tire Size: Ensure that the lift kit you choose is compatible with the tire size you want to run.
- Installation: Professional installation is recommended for lift kits, as it requires specialized tools and knowledge.
Section 2: Wheels and Tires – Traction and Style
The right wheels and tires can dramatically improve your Trailhawk's performance and appearance.
- Wheels:
- Material: Aluminum alloy wheels are lighter and stronger than steel wheels, improving handling and fuel economy.
- Offset: The offset of the wheel determines how far it sits in or out of the wheel well. Choose an offset that provides adequate clearance for the tires and prevents rubbing.
- Style: Choose a wheel style that complements your Trailhawk's overall look.
- Tires:
- All-Terrain Tires (AT): A good compromise between on-road comfort and off-road traction. They offer better grip on dirt, gravel, and snow than street tires.
- Mud-Terrain Tires (MT): Designed for maximum traction in mud and other soft terrain. They are noisier and less comfortable on the road than AT tires.
- Hybrid Terrain Tires: Blend the characteristics of both AT and MT tires, offering a balance of on-road comfort and off-road performance.
- Important Considerations:
- Tire Size: Ensure that the tires you choose are compatible with your vehicle's suspension and wheel wells.
- Load Rating: Choose tires with a load rating that is sufficient for your vehicle's weight.
- Tire Pressure: Maintain proper tire pressure for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Section 3: Armor and Protection – Safeguarding Your Investment
Protecting your Trailhawk from rocks, branches, and other hazards is crucial for off-road durability.
- Rock Sliders: Protect the rocker panels from damage when traversing rocks and obstacles.
- Skid Plates: Protect the engine, transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank from impacts.
- Bumpers: Aftermarket bumpers offer improved protection, increased ground clearance, and mounting points for winches and other accessories.
- Steel Bumpers: Provide maximum protection and durability.
- Aluminum Bumpers: Lighter than steel bumpers but still offer good protection.
- Important Considerations:
- Material: Choose armor made from high-quality steel or aluminum for maximum protection.
- Coverage: Ensure that the armor provides adequate coverage for the vulnerable components of your vehicle.
- Installation: Professional installation is recommended for rock sliders and bumpers, as it may require welding or other specialized skills.
Section 4: Recovery Gear – Getting Unstuck
Having the right recovery gear can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major ordeal.
- Winch: A powerful tool for pulling your vehicle out of mud, snow, or other difficult situations.
- Recovery Straps: Used to connect your vehicle to another vehicle or a tree for winching or pulling.
- D-Rings/Shackles: Used to connect recovery straps to your vehicle's recovery points.
- Hi-Lift Jack: A versatile tool for lifting your vehicle, changing tires, or performing other maintenance tasks.
- Shovel: Used to dig your vehicle out of mud, sand, or snow.
- Tire Deflator: Used to lower tire pressure for improved traction in soft terrain.
- Important Considerations:
- Winch Capacity: Choose a winch with a capacity that is at least 1.5 times your vehicle's weight.
- Recovery Points: Ensure that your vehicle has strong and reliable recovery points.
- Training: Familiarize yourself with the proper use of your recovery gear before heading off-road.
Section 5: Lighting Upgrades – Visibility and Style
Upgrading your Trailhawk's lighting can improve visibility and add a touch of style.
- LED Headlights: Offer brighter and more efficient lighting than halogen headlights.
- LED Fog Lights: Improve visibility in fog, rain, and snow.
- Auxiliary Lights: Provide additional lighting for off-road driving.
- Light Bars: Offer a wide beam of light for illuminating a large area.
- Spot Lights: Provide a focused beam of light for long-distance visibility.
- Important Considerations:
- Brightness: Choose lights that are bright enough to improve visibility without blinding other drivers.
- Beam Pattern: Choose a beam pattern that is appropriate for your intended use.
- Wiring: Ensure that the lights are properly wired and grounded to prevent electrical problems.
Section 6: Performance Enhancements – Power and Efficiency
While the Trailhawk already packs a punch, there are ways to squeeze out even more performance.
- Cold Air Intake: Improves airflow to the engine, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.
- Performance Exhaust System: Reduces backpressure, improving engine performance and fuel economy.
- Engine Tuning: Optimizes the engine's computer settings for increased power and torque.
- Throttle Body Spacer: Increases airflow to the engine for improved throttle response.
- Important Considerations:
- Warranty: Aftermarket performance parts may void your vehicle's warranty.
- Emissions: Ensure that any performance parts you install are legal in your area.
- Professional Installation: Professional installation is recommended for most performance parts, as it requires specialized knowledge and tools.
Table Price of Aftermarket Parts
| Part Category | Description | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension | ||
| Leveling Kit | 1-2" Front Lift | $150 - $400 |
| Lift Kit | 2-4" Full Suspension Lift | $500 - $3,000+ |
| Coilover Conversion Kit | Replaces Air Suspension with Coilovers | $2,500 - $5,000+ |
| Wheels & Tires | ||
| Alloy Wheels (Set of 4) | Various Styles and Sizes | $800 - $3,000+ |
| All-Terrain Tires (Set of 4) | Durable and versatile | $800 - $2,000+ |
| Mud-Terrain Tires (Set of 4) | For extreme off-road conditions | $1,000 - $2,500+ |
| Armor & Protection | ||
| Rock Sliders | Protects Rocker Panels | $400 - $1,200+ |
| Skid Plates (Full Set) | Protects Underbody Components | $500 - $1,500+ |
| Steel Front Bumper | Heavy-Duty Protection | $800 - $2,000+ |
| Steel Rear Bumper | Heavy-Duty Protection | $800 - $2,000+ |
| Recovery Gear | ||
| Winch | Electric Winch with Synthetic Rope | $400 - $1,500+ |
| Recovery Strap | Heavy-Duty Tow Strap | $30 - $100 |
| D-Ring Shackles | Pair of Heavy-Duty Shackles | $20 - $50 |
| Lighting | ||
| LED Headlight Bulbs | Brighter and Longer-Lasting | $50 - $200 |
| LED Fog Lights | Improves Visibility in Fog | $80 - $300 |
| LED Light Bar | Off-Road Illumination | $100 - $500+ |
| Performance | ||
| Cold Air Intake | Improves Airflow to Engine | $200 - $400 |
| Cat-Back Exhaust System | Performance Exhaust Upgrade | $500 - $1,500+ |
| Engine Tuner/Programmer | Optimizes Engine Performance | $300 - $800 |
Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and can vary based on brand, quality, and retailer. Installation costs are not included.
Conclusion:
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is a capable and versatile vehicle that can be further enhanced with aftermarket parts. By carefully selecting the right upgrades, you can tailor your Trailhawk to your specific needs and preferences, transforming it into the ultimate off-road and on-road machine. Remember to research your options, consider your budget, and prioritize safety when choosing and installing aftermarket parts. Unleash the full potential of your Trailhawk and enjoy the adventures that await!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
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Q: Will aftermarket parts void my warranty?
- A: It depends. Aftermarket parts themselves are generally not the cause for warranty denial. However, if an aftermarket part directly causes a failure of a covered component, the manufacturer may deny warranty coverage for that specific failure. It's best to consult with your dealer before installing any aftermarket parts.
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Q: What's the first upgrade I should do?
- A: This depends on your priorities. For improved off-road capability, consider all-terrain tires. For aesthetics, a leveling kit is a good starting point. For protection, rock sliders and skid plates are essential.
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Q: Can I install aftermarket parts myself?
- A: Some aftermarket parts, like LED headlight bulbs or a cold air intake, are relatively easy to install. However, more complex modifications, such as lift kits, bumpers, and winches, are best left to professionals.
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Q: How much will it cost to install a lift kit?
- A: The cost of installation can vary depending on the complexity of the kit and the labor rates in your area. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1500 or more for professional installation.
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Q: What size tires can I fit on my 2017 Trailhawk without a lift?
- A: Generally, you can fit 32-inch tires without a lift, but it's essential to verify fitment and check for any rubbing issues.
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Q: Are there any downsides to lifting my Trailhawk?
- A: Lifting your Trailhawk can affect handling, fuel economy, and ride quality. It may also require additional modifications, such as longer sway bar links and extended brake lines.
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