Grilles for a Jeep Wrangler (TJ, LJ, JK, JKU, JL, JLU)
Jeep Wranglers are known for their off-road capabilities and their edgy design. With a variety of add-on feature options, the Wrangler can become the ultimate off-roading toy. One of the add-on features that give Jeep Wrangler’s their mean look is the grill.
Grilles come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors, making them the perfect customizable jeep feature to ensure your Jeep looks exactly like you want. Keep reading to discover the best grille options for a Jeep Wrangler.
Purpose of a Vehicle Grill
Most vehicle grilles on today’s cars are decked out in fancy colors and designs. While the grille adds a visual appeal to a vehicle, it also serves an important purpose in how the vehicle runs.
The front grille’s purpose is to allow airflow to the engine bay to keep the engine cool. When driving down the road, the vented grille pulls the oncoming air through the openings, and that air cools the engine.
Because the grille serves a vital purpose to the lifespan of your car’s engine, it is important to consider the functionality of your new Jeep Wrangler grille while also going for a new look.
Types of Grilles
Grilles are most commonly made of plastic, but you can find a more durable option with a stainless steel grille. There are also grilles made with aluminum or a wire mesh. While the material vehicle grilles are made of varies, there are three different main types of car grilles: mesh, billet, and CNC.
- Mesh – mesh grilles are simple and elegant and the top choice of grilles among sport and luxury brand cars. Always in demand, this type of grille comes in various material options including, ABS plastic, stainless steel, and aluminum.
- Billet – billet grilles are the most common type of aftermarket grille and have a mixture of thick and thin lines, with the thick lines in the middle. The term “billet” comes from the billet that forms when iron and aluminum become purified.
- CNC – computer numerically controlled grilles, or CNC, are manufactured by a custom design from the computer. This means you can custom design your grille to make it a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
If your Jeep Wrangler is performing its natural duties and maintaining its appearance as an off-road vehicle, it is best to choose a durable grille option to get the most use out of your new grille. While all three types of grilles come in varying materials, the most durable options are mesh and billet.
Best Grilles for Jeep Wranglers
Now that you understand a mesh or billet grille that is made of durable, strength-tested material is the best option for a Jeep Wrangler, it is time to determine the best style of grilles. While the style solely depends on your personal preference, there are a variety of durable grilles for every Jeep Wrangler.
Whether you are planning to purchase a used Jeep Wrangler or get a fresh one off the factory assembly line, here are some options that are sure to make your Wrangler the talk of the town.
ALLINONEPARTS Front Shark Grille
The sleek yet stand-out features of the ALLINONE Front Shark Grille replicate a shark’s mouth with sharp teeth giving it an intimidating look.
The black matte finish is made to withstand the outside elements, and the ABS plastic material it’s made of makes it durable. With a design constructed to fit the original mounting holes, there is no need to cut or modify the grille to fit properly, making it easy to install.
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u-Box Front Gladiator Vader Grille
Made of durable ABS plastic, this grille fits the 1997–2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ LJ. The mean, aggressive Gladiator-looking grille comes in an unfinished matte black color but is easily painted to fit any Wrangler look. This grille boasts easy installation with an overlay cover for your stock grille and is a perfect match for the original mounting holes.
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Xprite Front Grille with Monster Teeth
If you’re going for a unique, non-stock front grille look, this Xprite Front Grille with monster teeth is sure to spark your interest. This grille has a removable steel mesh insert and is made of ABS plastic making it a durable and impact-resistant grille replacement option. The Xprite Front Grille is compatible with the 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Sahara Sport JK JKU.
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Maiker Front Grille Demon Grid Grille
The sleek, unique look of the Maiker Demon Grid Front Grille is sure to spark your interest if you are looking for an aftermarket grille not many people use. The lightweight design remains durable as the ABS plastic ensures extra protection for your radiator from rocks and flying debris. As with the other grille options on this list, the Maiker Demon Grid Grille is easy to install as it uses the current mounting points. This grille is compatible with 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler JK and Unlimited.
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Front Grille Inserts
If you want to change the look of your front grille but don’t have the funding or aren’t ready to replace the entire front grille, you can purchase front grille inserts. Front grille inserts are an excellent front grille replacement alternative and will give your Wrangler the new look you desire.
These inserts are an inexpensive way to change the look of your Jeep but still keep the integrity of the Wrangler feels. Some popular front grille inserts include:
Hooke Road Honeycomb Front Grille Mesh Inserts
The Hooke Road Honeycomb Front Grille Mesh Inserts fit the 1997–2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ and Unlimited and give your Wrangler the makeover it deserves. Made of durable, ABS plastic, these mesh inserts provide an aesthetically pleasing look while protecting the engine from outdoor elements. Installation is easy as the insert snaps in place but can cause damage when removed.
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Xprite Stainless Steel Mesh Inserts
One of the key differences to the Xprite Stainless Steel Mesh Inserts is in the name. The Stainless Steel material used to construct this grille screams durability. It is vented to allow ample airflow to the engine, so you don’t have to worry about overheating. You can also paint a design on this grille to add extra flair before easily installing it into your grille. These grille inserts fit in the 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK JKU models.
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Red Rock 4×4 Mesh Grille Inserts
The black matte finish of the Red Rock 4×4 Mesh Grille Inserts gives the grille a sleek, mean look. These mesh grilles are a durable plastic material that prevents rusting and protects the engine from off-roading elements. One of the cons associated with this insert is that to install, you must remove the grille. However, the overall durability and look this insert creates are well worth the trouble.
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Jeep Wrangler grille FAQs
The front grille plays an integral role in the function and looks of a Jeep Wrangler. If you are a DIYer and enjoy tinkering with your Jeep, you may feel the need to change out the front grille in your backyard. If so, consider these Jeep Wrangler grille FAQs.
Why do I need a grille on my Jeep?
The grille on your Jeep plays an integral role in protecting the radiator and ensuring your engine doesn’t overheat. The grille protects the engine by keeping out any flying off-roading debris tossed up from the tires.
The vented design of the grille provides ample airflow to your engine bay, helping to maintain a steady airway to keep your engine cool.
Are Jeep Wrangler grilles interchangeable?
The short answer is yes; you can interchange Jeep Wrangler grilles. However, not all Wrangler grilles will allow you to swap out the grilles. Some grilles may require cutting and fitting to ensure a safe and secure fit.
The most compatible models for grille interchanging are the Sahara and the Rubicon.
Are all Jeep JK grilles the same?
Jeep JK grilles are not all the same. Even though the design is slightly different, Jeep JK grilles are interchangeable.
How do you install Jeep grille inserts?
The process for installing Jeep grille inserts varies depending on the insert and the Jeep model and year.
The general process consists of popping the hood, removing the current grille insert, preparing any mounting materials, then fastening the new insert into the grille. This simple process can vary in complexity depending on the Jeep and the insert.