The Ultimate Guide to Accessorizing Your 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk: Unleash Its Full Potential
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is a beast of a machine, straight from the factory. It's ready to tackle tough trails and handle daily driving with equal aplomb. But, like any true off-roader, it begs to be customized and enhanced. The right accessories can elevate its performance, improve its functionality, and personalize its appearance. This article is your ultimate guide to choosing the best accessories for your 2020 Cherokee Trailhawk.
2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk Accessories
We'll dive into a wide range of options. We'll cover everything from practical upgrades to aesthetic enhancements, ensuring your Trailhawk is perfectly suited to your adventures.
Why Accessorize Your 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk?
There are many reasons to consider adding accessories to your Trailhawk. Here are a few key benefits:
- Enhanced Off-Road Performance: Upgrades like lift kits, off-road tires, and skid plates can significantly improve your vehicle's capabilities on challenging terrain.
- Improved Functionality: Roof racks, cargo carriers, and upgraded lighting can make your Trailhawk more practical for camping, overlanding, and everyday use.
- Personalized Style: Accessories like custom wheels, grille inserts, and interior trim can give your Trailhawk a unique and personalized look.
- Increased Protection: Rock sliders, brush guards, and seat covers can protect your vehicle from damage and wear and tear.
- Resale Value: Thoughtfully chosen and well-maintained accessories can potentially increase the resale value of your Trailhawk.
Essential Accessories for Off-Road Domination
If you plan to take your 2020 Cherokee Trailhawk off the beaten path, these accessories are a must:
- Off-Road Tires:
- The tires are the most important factor in off-road performance.
- The factory tires on the Trailhawk are decent, but upgrading to a dedicated set of off-road tires will provide significantly more traction on loose surfaces, rocks, and mud.
- Look for tires with an aggressive tread pattern, a durable sidewall, and a size that fits your vehicle without requiring extensive modifications.
- Pro tips from us: Consider the type of terrain you'll be tackling most often when choosing your tires. Mud terrains (MT) are great for mud and soft surfaces. All-terrains (AT) are a more versatile option for a mix of on- and off-road driving.
- Lift Kit:
- A lift kit raises the ride height of your Trailhawk, providing more ground clearance and allowing you to fit larger tires.
- This is crucial for navigating obstacles and preventing damage to the undercarriage.
- Lift kits come in various sizes and types, from simple spacer lifts to more complex suspension lift kits.
- Based on my experience, a 2-3 inch lift is a good balance for maintaining on-road comfort while significantly improving off-road capability.
- Skid Plates:
- Skid plates are essential for protecting the vulnerable components under your vehicle, such as the oil pan, transmission, and fuel tank.
- They are typically made of steel or aluminum and are designed to withstand impacts from rocks, stumps, and other trail hazards.
- Invest in a complete set of skid plates that cover all critical areas.
- Rock Sliders:
- Rock sliders are steel bars that mount to the sides of your vehicle, protecting the rocker panels from damage when traversing rocky terrain.
- They also provide a convenient step for getting in and out of the vehicle.
- Choose rock sliders that are specifically designed for the Cherokee Trailhawk and that are strong enough to withstand the weight of the vehicle.
- Winch:
- A winch is a powerful tool that can be used to pull your vehicle out of sticky situations, such as mud pits or steep inclines.
- It's also helpful for assisting other vehicles that are stuck.
- Look for a winch with a pulling capacity that is at least 1.5 times the weight of your Trailhawk.
- A synthetic rope is lighter and safer than a steel cable.
- Recovery Gear:
- A winch is useless without the proper recovery gear.
- This includes items such as tow straps, shackles, tree savers, and a snatch block.
- Learn how to use this equipment safely and effectively before heading out on the trail.
Accessories for Enhanced Functionality and Comfort
These accessories will make your 2020 Cherokee Trailhawk more practical and comfortable for everyday use and longer adventures:
- Roof Rack:
- A roof rack provides a convenient way to carry extra cargo, such as luggage, camping gear, or sporting equipment.
- Choose a roof rack that is specifically designed for the Cherokee Trailhawk and that has a high weight capacity.
- Consider adding accessories such as a cargo carrier, kayak carrier, or bike rack to maximize the versatility of your roof rack.
- Cargo Carrier:
- A cargo carrier attaches to your roof rack and provides a weatherproof storage space for your gear.
- This is a great option for keeping your interior clean and organized on long trips.
- Choose a cargo carrier that is the right size for your needs and that is easy to install and remove.
- Upgraded Lighting:
- The factory headlights on the Cherokee Trailhawk are adequate, but upgrading to LED or HID headlights will provide significantly better visibility at night.
- Consider adding auxiliary lights, such as fog lights, driving lights, or light bars, for even more illumination on the trail.
- Common mistakes to avoid are using lights that are too bright or that are not properly aimed. This can blind other drivers and create a safety hazard.
- Seat Covers:
- Protect your seats from wear and tear, spills, and stains with a set of seat covers.
- Choose seat covers that are specifically designed for the Cherokee Trailhawk and that are made from a durable and waterproof material.
- Consider adding heated seat covers for extra comfort in cold weather.
- Floor Mats:
- Protect your carpets from dirt, mud, and water with a set of floor mats.
- All-weather floor mats are a great option for off-road enthusiasts.
- They are easy to clean and provide excellent protection.
- Interior Organization:
- Keep your interior organized and clutter-free with various organizers, such as center console organizers, seat back organizers, and cargo area organizers.
- These accessories can help you make the most of the limited space in your Trailhawk.
Aesthetic Enhancements: Personalize Your Trailhawk
These accessories will help you give your 2020 Cherokee Trailhawk a unique and personalized look:
- Custom Wheels:
- Upgrading to a set of custom wheels is a great way to enhance the appearance of your Trailhawk.
- Choose wheels that are the right size and offset for your vehicle and that complement its overall style.
- Consider adding wheel spacers to widen the stance of your Trailhawk for a more aggressive look.
- Grille Inserts:
- Grille inserts are a simple and affordable way to customize the front of your Trailhawk.
- They come in a variety of styles and finishes, from chrome to black to painted.
- Choose grille inserts that match your vehicle's color scheme and that enhance its overall appearance.
- Badges and Emblems:
- Add custom badges and emblems to your Trailhawk to personalize its look.
- You can find badges and emblems that represent your favorite hobbies, interests, or organizations.
- Be careful not to overdo it – too many badges and emblems can make your vehicle look cluttered.
- Window Tint:
- Window tint not only enhances the appearance of your Trailhawk but also provides privacy and protection from the sun's harmful UV rays.
- Check your local laws regarding window tinting before having your windows tinted.
- Decals and Graphics:
- Add decals and graphics to your Trailhawk to give it a unique and eye-catching look.
- You can find decals and graphics in a variety of styles and colors.
- Consider adding a custom graphic that represents your personality or interests.
Where to Buy Accessories for Your 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk
There are many places to buy accessories for your 2020 Cherokee Trailhawk. Here are a few popular options:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Quadratec, and ExtremeTerrain offer a wide selection of accessories at competitive prices.
- Local Auto Parts Stores: Auto parts stores like AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts carry a variety of accessories, although their selection may be limited.
- Jeep Dealerships: Your local Jeep dealership may carry some accessories, but their prices are typically higher than those of online retailers.
- Specialty Off-Road Shops: Specialty off-road shops offer a wide selection of high-quality accessories and can provide expert advice on choosing the right products for your needs.
Installation Tips and Considerations
- Read the Instructions: Always read the installation instructions carefully before attempting to install any accessory.
- Use the Right Tools: Make sure you have the right tools for the job. Using the wrong tools can damage your vehicle or the accessory.
- Take Your Time: Don't rush the installation process. Take your time and do it right.
- Get Help if Needed: If you're not comfortable installing an accessory yourself, don't hesitate to get help from a professional.
Maintaining Your Accessories
- Clean Regularly: Clean your accessories regularly to keep them looking their best.
- Inspect for Damage: Inspect your accessories regularly for damage, such as cracks, rust, or loose bolts.
- Repair or Replace: Repair or replace any damaged accessories as soon as possible.
Conclusion: Building the Perfect Trailhawk
Accessorizing your 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is a great way to enhance its performance, improve its functionality, and personalize its appearance. By carefully choosing the right accessories, you can transform your Trailhawk into the ultimate off-road machine or a comfortable and stylish daily driver. Remember to prioritize quality, compatibility, and safety when selecting accessories, and don't be afraid to seek professional help with installation if needed. With a little planning and effort, you can create a Trailhawk that is perfectly suited to your needs and adventures. Happy trails!
Remember to check out our other article on [Jeep Wrangler maintenance tips](Internal link - if applicable) to keep all your Jeep vehicles running smoothly. For more information on off-roading techniques, visit [REI's expert advice](External link).
I hope this comprehensive guide helps you build the perfect 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk! Good luck, and enjoy the journey!