The 2013 Jeep Compass, while not a hardcore off-roader in its stock configuration, offers a solid platform for customization and improvement. Thanks to a vibrant aftermarket scene, owners can significantly enhance their Compass's performance, appearance, and functionality with a wide array of parts. Whether you're looking to improve its off-road capabilities, personalize its style, or simply replace worn-out components, understanding the available aftermarket options is key to maximizing your Compass's potential. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the 2013 Jeep Compass aftermarket parts, covering everything from performance upgrades to aesthetic enhancements.
Why Consider Aftermarket Parts for Your 2013 Jeep Compass?
Unleash the Potential: A Comprehensive Guide to 2013 Jeep Compass Aftermarket Parts
The reasons for upgrading your 2013 Jeep Compass with aftermarket parts are diverse and often depend on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some common motivations:
- Enhanced Performance: Improve off-road capabilities, increase horsepower and torque, and upgrade braking performance.
- Personalized Style: Customize the appearance of your Compass to reflect your unique taste.
- Increased Functionality: Add features like roof racks, cargo carriers, and lighting solutions to enhance the vehicle's utility.
- Durability and Reliability: Replace worn-out or failing factory parts with more durable aftermarket alternatives.
- Resale Value: While some modifications can lower resale value, carefully chosen and well-installed upgrades can attract a specific type of buyer willing to pay more.
Main Sections: Diving Deep into the Aftermarket Options
1. Suspension Upgrades: Lift Kits, Shocks, and More
One of the most popular upgrades for Jeep Compass owners is suspension modification. Lift kits provide increased ground clearance, allowing for larger tires and improved off-road capability.
- Types of Lift Kits:
- Spacer Lift Kits: The most affordable option, these kits use spacers to lift the vehicle without replacing the factory springs or shocks. Ideal for mild off-roading and aesthetic improvements.
- Spring Lift Kits: Replace the factory springs with taller, stiffer springs for increased lift and improved handling. A good balance of cost and performance.
- Coilover Lift Kits: The most advanced and expensive option, these kits replace the factory springs and shocks with adjustable coilovers, allowing for fine-tuning of ride height and damping. Best for serious off-roaders.
- Shocks and Struts: Upgrading your shocks and struts can significantly improve ride quality and handling, both on and off-road. Consider options from Bilstein, Rancho, or Fox for enhanced performance.
- Sway Bar Links and Bushings: Replacing worn-out sway bar links and bushings can improve handling and reduce body roll, especially when paired with a lift kit.
Important Considerations: When installing a lift kit, consider the impact on your vehicle's driveline angles. You may need to install longer sway bar links and possibly a transfer case drop kit to prevent vibrations and premature wear. Always have a professional alignment performed after installing any suspension modifications.
2. Wheels and Tires: Traction and Style
Upgrading your wheels and tires is another popular way to enhance your 2013 Jeep Compass. Larger, more aggressive tires can significantly improve off-road traction, while new wheels can add a touch of personal style.
- Tire Types:
- All-Terrain Tires: A good compromise between on-road comfort and off-road traction. Ideal for daily driving with occasional off-road excursions.
- Mud-Terrain Tires: Designed for maximum traction in mud, sand, and other challenging terrains. Can be noisy and less comfortable on the road.
- Highway Tires: Primarily designed for on-road use, offering a smooth, quiet ride and good fuel economy.
- Wheel Considerations:
- Bolt Pattern: Ensure the wheels you choose have the correct bolt pattern for your 2013 Jeep Compass (5x114.3mm).
- Offset: The offset of the wheel affects how far it sticks out from the wheel well. Choose an offset that provides the desired look and clearance.
- Wheel Size: Larger wheels can improve appearance, but they can also negatively impact ride quality and fuel economy.
Practical Advice: When selecting tires, consider your typical driving conditions and prioritize the type of terrain you encounter most often. Consult with a tire specialist to ensure proper fitment and avoid rubbing issues.
3. Engine Performance: Intake, Exhaust, and Tuning
While the 2013 Jeep Compass isn't known for its raw power, there are several aftermarket parts that can improve its engine performance.
- Cold Air Intake: Replacing the factory air intake with a cold air intake can improve airflow to the engine, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.
- Cat-Back Exhaust System: A cat-back exhaust system replaces the exhaust system from the catalytic converter back, reducing backpressure and improving exhaust flow. This can lead to a slight increase in horsepower and a more aggressive exhaust note.
- Performance Tuning: A performance tune can remap the engine's computer to optimize fuel delivery, ignition timing, and other parameters, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.
Important Considerations: Engine modifications can sometimes void your vehicle's warranty. Be sure to research the potential risks and benefits before making any significant changes to your engine.
4. Exterior Accessories: Protection and Style
Exterior accessories can add both protection and style to your 2013 Jeep Compass.
- Bumpers: Aftermarket bumpers can provide increased protection for the front and rear of your vehicle, especially during off-road adventures. They often include features like winch mounts and recovery points.
- Rock Sliders: Rock sliders protect the rocker panels from damage when navigating rocky terrain.
- Roof Racks and Cargo Carriers: Roof racks and cargo carriers provide additional storage space for gear and equipment.
- Lighting: Upgrading your headlights, fog lights, and auxiliary lights can improve visibility and safety, especially during nighttime driving.
Practical Advice: When choosing exterior accessories, consider the materials and construction quality. Opt for durable materials like steel or aluminum for maximum protection.
5. Interior Upgrades: Comfort and Convenience
Interior upgrades can enhance the comfort and convenience of your 2013 Jeep Compass.
- Seat Covers: Seat covers protect your factory seats from wear and tear and can also add a touch of personal style.
- Floor Mats: Heavy-duty floor mats can protect your carpets from dirt, mud, and spills.
- Stereo System: Upgrading your stereo system can significantly improve your listening experience.
- Navigation System: Adding a navigation system can make it easier to find your way around, especially when exploring new areas.
6. Drivetrain Upgrades
While less common for the Compass, drivetrain upgrades can significantly improve off-road performance. These include:
- Locking Differentials: Locking differentials provide maximum traction by forcing both wheels on an axle to spin at the same speed.
- Gear Ratio Changes: Changing the gear ratio can improve low-end torque and crawling ability.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
- Compatibility Issues: Ensure that the aftermarket parts you choose are compatible with your specific year and model of Jeep Compass.
- Installation Difficulties: Some aftermarket parts can be challenging to install. Consider having a professional install them if you are not comfortable working on your vehicle.
- Warranty Concerns: Modifications can sometimes void your vehicle's warranty. Check with your dealer or warranty provider before making any significant changes.
- Performance and Reliability: Not all aftermarket parts are created equal. Research the brands and products you are considering to ensure that they are of high quality and will perform reliably.
Price Table for 2013 Jeep Compass Aftermarket Parts
| Part Category | Part Description | Brand (Example) | Estimated Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suspension | 2" Spacer Lift Kit | Rough Country | $150 - $300 | Entry-level, easy install, for aesthetic lift. |
| Complete Spring/Shock Lift Kit (2-3") | Old Man Emu | $800 - $1500 | Improved ride quality and off-road performance. | |
| Performance Shocks (Set of 4) | Bilstein | $300 - $600 | Upgrade over stock, improves handling. | |
| Wheels & Tires | All-Terrain Tires (Set of 4, 225/65R17) | BFGoodrich | $600 - $1000 | Popular choice, good balance of on/off-road performance. |
| Aftermarket Wheels (Set of 4, 17") | Pro Comp | $400 - $800 | Wide range of styles and finishes available. | |
| Engine Performance | Cold Air Intake | K&N | $200 - $400 | Slight HP increase, improved throttle response. |
| Cat-Back Exhaust System | Flowmaster | $300 - $600 | Enhanced sound, possible slight HP gain. | |
| Exterior | Front Bumper with Winch Mount | Smittybilt | $500 - $1000 | Provides protection and winch mounting capability. |
| Rock Sliders | N-Fab | $300 - $600 | Protects rocker panels from damage. | |
| Roof Rack System | Thule | $300 - $500 | Adds cargo carrying capacity. | |
| LED Headlight Upgrade | Oracle Lighting | $200 - $400 | Improved visibility and modern look. | |
| Interior | Custom Fit Seat Covers | Coverking | $150 - $300 | Protects seats and adds style. |
| All-Weather Floor Mats | WeatherTech | $100 - $200 | Protects carpets from dirt and spills. | |
| Drivetrain | Locking Differential (Rear) | Eaton | $800 - $1500 + Install | Significant improvement in off-road traction. Professional Installation Required |
Note: Prices are approximate and can vary depending on the vendor, location, and specific product model. Installation costs are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Will aftermarket parts void my warranty? Not necessarily. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers from having their warranties voided simply because they use aftermarket parts. However, if an aftermarket part directly causes a failure of a covered component, the warranty on that component may be voided.
- How much does it cost to install a lift kit? The cost of installing a lift kit can vary depending on the complexity of the kit and the labor rates in your area. Expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1000 for professional installation.
- What is the best type of tire for my 2013 Jeep Compass? The best type of tire depends on your typical driving conditions and priorities. All-terrain tires are a good compromise for most drivers, while mud-terrain tires are best for serious off-roading.
- Where can I buy aftermarket parts for my 2013 Jeep Compass? Aftermarket parts are available from a variety of sources, including online retailers, local auto parts stores, and specialty off-road shops.
Conclusion
The 2013 Jeep Compass offers a surprising amount of potential for customization and improvement through aftermarket parts. By carefully selecting and installing the right upgrades, you can enhance its performance, appearance, and functionality to meet your specific needs and preferences. Remember to research your options thoroughly, consider the potential impacts on your vehicle's warranty and reliability, and consult with professionals when necessary. With a little planning and effort, you can transform your 2013 Jeep Compass into a truly unique and capable vehicle.
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