Today, we will answer “Does your offroading Jeep need a skid plate?” If you are an avid offroader and are a part of offroading groups and forums, you have surely heard about skid plates. If you are thinking of whether it is a good investment to install skid plates on your Jeep, you have come to the right place.
What is a skid plate?
Simply put, a skid plate is a protective component that attaches to the undercarriage of your vehicle. It’s typically made from durable materials like steel, aluminum, or high-density polyethylene. Skid plates are designed to act as an extra layer of protection for your vehicle’s vital components, deflecting rocks, branches, and other debris that can cause damage to your oil pan, transmission, and other critical parts.
What does a skid plate protect?
As we mentioned, skid plates protect your vehicle’s undercarriage from damage caused by rocks, debris, and other hazards you might encounter while off-roading. The most vulnerable parts of your vehicle’s undercarriage are typically its oil pan, transmission, and differential, all of which are located toward the front of your vehicle. A skid plate can prevent damage to these vital components, saving you from costly repairs or replacements down the line. Additionally, skid plates can protect your suspension and steering components from damage caused by impacts, helping you stay safe and secure on the trail.
Does your offroading Jeep need a skid plate?
If you love taking your Jeep off-road, then a skid plate is definitely worth considering. Even if you only go off-roading occasionally, a skid plate can give you added peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is protected from damage caused by rocks and other hazards.
If you’re cruising along a rocky trail and hit a large rock, causing damage to your oil pan. With a skid plate in place, the rock would have been deflected, saving your oil pan from damage.
You’re tackling a steep incline when you hear a loud bang. Your Jeep has hit a large branch, and your transmission is now damaged. If you had a skid plate, your transmission would have been protected from the impact, sparing you from a costly repair.
Things to consider before getting a skid plate
If you’re ready to invest in a skid plate for your Jeep, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Material
Consider the type of material the skid plate is made from. Steel skid plates are the most durable but can be heavy, while aluminum and polyethylene plates are lighter but may not be as durable.
Coverage area
Think about the coverage area of the skid plate. Some skid plates only cover the oil pan, while others cover a larger area of the undercarriage. Determine which parts of your vehicle are most vulnerable and choose a skid plate that offers adequate protection.
Compatibility
Make sure the skid plate you choose is compatible with your Jeep’s make and model. Some skid plates are designed specifically for certain models, so double-check before you buy.
Cost
Skid plates can range in price from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Determine your budget and factor in any installation fees if you plan to have it installed professionally.
So… should you get a skid plate?
If you often use your Jeep for offroading, a skid plate is a worthwhile investment to protect your Jeep’s vital components from damage caused by rocks, debris, and other hazards. By deflecting impacts, skid plates can save you from costly repairs and replacements down the line.
