Jeep Wrangler Pedals and Pads
The pedals on your Jeep Wrangler are the interfaces between you and the vehicle’s acceleration, deceleration, and transmission. Perhaps you prefer a larger foot area, a softer touch, or a pedal emblazoned with your favorite automotive brand. You’ll find a wide range of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket pedals, pads, and other accessories to choose for your Jeep Wrangler.
What are Jeep Wrangler pedals and pads?Your Jeep Wrangler pedals are used to control your vehicle, give it gas, put on the brakes, and activate the clutch to change gears. The pads are attached to the metal frame and dictate the overall foot area you have, and each pedal has a specific shape and weight. There are many different OEM and aftermarket versions of these components, and they include the following:
- Gas
- Brake
- Clutch
- Dead
Dead or nonfunctional Jeep Wrangler pedals are intended to give your foot a place to rest other than the floor. Some drivers find these options comfortable when off-roading or on long drives. These components might be built-in, or they can be added in as an extra.
How do OEM and aftermarket pads and pedals differ?OEM parts are manufactured or licensed by Jeep. These are the parts that come stock on your Jeep and are available as an option for replacement. OEM-style products are technically aftermarket but seek to emulate the original OEM part. Aftermarket components, on the other hand, are intended to enhance the stock equipment or let you change one or more characteristics. Some of the brands making aftermarket devices for Jeep Wrangler vehicles are listed here:
- MOPAR
- M.O.R.E.
- OMIX-ADA
- AMI Custom
- Crown Automotive
Some aftermarket pads are universal or sized based on the dimensions of the base. However, most products like these are classified according to the particular models they support. If you own a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited or a Rubicon, for instance, you can select an item for that specific model. In order to pick out a part of the correct size, you’ll generally need to know the following information:
- Model year
- Engine
- Transmission type
- Trim designation
Most pads for Jeep Wranglers are hard rubberized pads. Billet pads for Jeep, on the other hand, are CNC-machined from alloy. Some Wrangler owners prefer the look, and the metal tends to stand up to more abuse if you drive your Jeep off-road or in harsh conditions.
How do you choose a replacement Jeep Wrangler pedal?Choosing the right Jeep pedals for you comes down to considering surface area, weight, and texture. Weight is particularly important because it can make them easier or more difficult to press. Surface area is a matter of foot size and preference, and Wrangler pad tread can matter if you’re often driving in a wet or dirty environment.