Best Offroad Upgrade Parts

‍Off-roading is an exciting but challenging outdoor activity that requires specialized equipment and parts to ensure a safe and successful ride.

Some of the best off road parts you shouldn’t miss include a suspension lift kit, extra wheels, tires, lights, and winches. Having the right off-road parts and accessories can make all the difference in your vehicle's performance and durability.

Many off-road parts and accessories are available on the market, from suspension systems and tires to lighting and electrical components. However, choosing the best off-road parts for your vehicle can be overwhelming, especially if you are new to the world of off-roading. As an experienced offroader, I have compiled a list of the most important off-road accessories to include in your vehicle.

‍1. Wheels and Tires

Off-road wheels and tires are stronger, more durable, and specifically designed for rugged terrain, providing better traction and durability.

Tires

There are a few things to consider when it comes to off-road tires. The first is the tire size. The larger the tire, the more clearance you'll have, but keep in mind that larger tires can also be heavier and put more strain on your vehicle's drivetrain.

The second is the tire's tread pattern. Off-road tires typically have deeper treads and more aggressive patterns than regular ones, which help with traction on uneven terrain. Some popular off-road tire brands include BF Goodrich, Goodyear, and Nitto.

Wheels

Off-road wheels need to be strong enough to withstand the rigors of off-roading. Look for wheels made from materials like aluminum or steel, which are both durable and lightweight.

Be sure to choose a wheel with the right bolt pattern and offset for your off-road vehicle. Some popular off-road wheel brands include Fuel Off-Road, KMC, and Method Race Wheels.

When it comes to choosing the right wheels and tires for your next adventure, it's important to do your research and choose a combination that will work best for your off-road vehicle and the terrain you'll be tackling.

2. Suspension Upgrades

If you’re an off-road enthusiast, you already know that suspension upgrades are important off-road accessories. They improve a vehicle's performance and handling in rough terrain. There are several types of suspension upgrades available, including shocks, lift kits, and springs.

Shocks

Upgrading your shocks can significantly improve your off-road experience. High-performance shocks can absorb impacts and vibrations, ensuring a smoother ride.

Some popular shock brands include Fox, Bilstein, and King. When choosing shocks, it's important to consider the type of trail you'll be driving on, as well as the weight of your truck.

Lift Kits

Lift kits are another awesome suspension upgrade. A suspension lift raises the height of your car or truck, providing better ground clearance and improving off-road performance. Lift kits also come in various sizes, from 1-2 inches to over 6 inches.

Some popular lift kit brands include Rough Country, Pro Comp, Skyjacker, Bilstein, and Old Man Emu. It's important to note that installing lift kits can affect your vehicle's handling and stability and cause limited slip differential, so it's crucial to choose a reputable brand and have it installed by a professional.

Springs

Replacing your vehicle's springs can also improve its off-road capabilities. Heavy-duty springs can support the weight of additional accessories, like winches and bumpers, and provide a smoother ride. Some popular spring brands include Eibach, Old Man Emu, and Rubicon Express.

When upgrading your suspension, choosing high-quality parts from reputable brands is essential. It's also important to consider the type of trail you'll be driving on and your vehicle weight. You can take your next adventure to the next level with the right suspension upgrades.

3. Bumpers and Armor for Vehicle Protection

When it comes to off-road adventures, vehicle protection is crucial. Bumpers and armor are essential road parts that can help protect your truck from damage while driving on rough terrain. Here are some of the best bumpers and armor for offroad vehicles:

Front Bumpers

A front bumper is one of the most important parts of an offroad truck. It can protect the front of the vehicle from damage caused by rocks, trees, mud, and other obstacles. Some of the best front bumpers for offroad vehicles include:

• Ranch Hand Legend Series Full Width Front HD Bumper with Brush Guard
• Body Armor 4x4 Hiline Stubby Front Winch HD Bumper with Hoop
• Fab Fours Red Steel Full Width Front Winch HD Bumper with Hoop

Rear Bumpers

Like front bumpers, rear bumpers are also important for offroad vehicles. They can protect the rear of the vehicle from damage caused by obstacles. Some of the best rear bumpers for offroad vehicles include:

• DV8 Offroad RAM 2500 Rear Bumper
• Body Armor 4x4 HiLine Rear Bumper
• Smittybilt XRC Gen2 Rear Bumper

Skid Plates

Skid plates are designed to protect the undercarriage of the vehicle from damage caused by rocks, debris, stumps, and other obstacles, thereby increasing your truck’s life span. Some of the best skid plates for offroad vehicles include:

• Rough Country Skid Plate System
• ARB Skid Plates
• Smittybilt XRC Skid Plate System

Rock Sliders

Rock sliders are designed to protect the sides of the vehicle from damage caused by rocks and other obstacles. Some of the best rock sliders for offroad trucks include:

• Body Armor 4x4 Rockcrawler Side Guards
• Smittybilt SRC Side Armor
• ARB Rock Sliders

4. Winches: Performance-enhancing accessories

Off-roading can be challenging, but winches can make it easier. Winches are performance-enhancing accessories that help off-road enthusiasts escape tricky situations.

They are essential for off-roaders exploring new trails and conquering difficult terrain. With a winch, you can pull yourself out of mud, sand, or snow and get back on the road.

When it comes to winches, there are several options available in the market:

The Warn AXON 55 Powersport Winch

This is one of the best options for off-roaders with an SUV. It’s rated for 5,500lb of line pull, which is plenty. With a 3-stage planetary gearset, the mechanism for this device is activated by a Motactor 12v DC permanent motor magnet, which operates using Rocker bar digital control. There’s additional wired digital remote control available as well.

The Warn 95950 Zeon 12-S

The Warn 95950 Zeon 12-S is another great option. It’s considered the best winch overall by Forbes Wheels. It has a 12,000lb capacity and features a 3-stage planetary gear train, a motor capable of 12,000 lbs. of pulling power, and a synthetic rope.

Smittybilt X20 GEN2

Smittybilt X20 GEN2 is the best heavy-duty winch available in the market. It has a 10,000lb capacity, a 6.6-hp amphibious motor, and a 3-stage planetary gear system.

X-BULL 4,500-lb Synthetic Rope Winch

The X-BULL 4,500-lb Synthetic Rope Winch is the best affordable winch option available. It has a 4,500lb capacity, a 1.6hp motor, and a 3-stage planetary gear system.

5. Lights for Visibility Offroad

When it comes to offroading, proper lighting is crucial for safety and visibility. Whether driving through dense forests or navigating rocky terrain, a reliable set of off-road lights can make all the difference.

Let’s explore some of the best options for off-road lighting, including LED light bars, spotlights, and fog lights.

LED Light Bars

LED light bars are popular for off-road lighting due to their bright and efficient illumination. One top option is the KC HiLites Gravity Pro6 LED Light Bar, which offers both style and performance with great brightness and off-road-ready durability.

Another great option is the Rigid Industries SR-Series Pro 30-inch, which boasts a low-profile design and impressive light output.

Spotlights

Spotlights are ideal for off-roading situations where long-range visibility is necessary. The Baja Designs Squadron Pro is a top choice, with its powerful 4,900-lumen output and durable construction. Another great option is the KC HiLiTES Daylighter 238, which has a classic look and impressive brightness.

Fog Lights

Fog lights are designed to cut through dense fog and other low-visibility conditions, making them essential for off-roading in areas with heavy fog or mist.

One great option is the Rough Country Black Series, a runner-up LED light bar that works well as a fog light. Another top choice is the Jeep Performance Parts 5-Inch LED Light Kit, which is specifically designed for off-road use and comes in both 5- and 7-inch kits for the Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator.

6. Exhaust Systems for Offroad Performance

Offroad vehicles require high-performance exhaust systems that can withstand the harsh conditions of offroad driving. A good exhaust system can improve horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency. It can also give your offroad vehicle a unique sound and style.

There are many different types of exhaust systems available for offroad performance, including cat-back, axle-back, and header-back systems.

Cat-back systems replace the factory exhaust system from the catalytic converter back. Axle-back systems replace the factory exhaust system from the rear axle back. Header-back systems replace the entire exhaust system from the header's back.

Some popular brands of offroad exhaust systems include MagnaFlow, Corsa Performance, and MBRP. MagnaFlow offers a wide range of exhaust systems for offroad vehicles, including cat-back, axle-back, and header-back systems.

Corsa Performance specializes in high-performance exhaust systems for off-road trucks and SUVs. MBRP offers a variety of exhaust systems for offroad vehicles, including cat-back, axle-back, and header-back systems.

When choosing an exhaust system for your offroad vehicle, it’s important to consider the type of driving you will be doing. A quieter exhaust system may be more suitable if you’ll be doing a lot of rock crawling or slow-speed offroading. On the other hand, a louder exhaust system may be more suitable if you’re doing a lot of high-speed offroading or racing.

7. Air Intakes

When it comes to off-road performance, having a high-quality air intake system can make a big difference. A good air intake system will help your engine breathe better, resulting in improved horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency.

There are many different types of air intake systems available, but the most popular types are cold air intakes and snorkels.

Cold Air Intakes

Cold air intakes are designed to bring cooler air into the engine, which is denser and contains more oxygen. This results in improved combustion and more power. Some popular cold air intake systems include the Spectre Performance Air Intake Kit and the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit.

Snorkels

On the other hand, snorkels are designed to bring air into the engine from a higher location, such as the roof of the vehicle. This can be especially useful for off-roading in dusty or muddy conditions, as it can help prevent the engine from sucking in debris. Some popular snorkels include the ARB Safari Snorkel and the Rugged Ridge Snorkel.

When choosing an air intake system, it's important to consider your vehicle's specific needs and off-road activities. A cold air intake may be more suitable for those prioritizing performance, while a snorkel may be more suitable for those frequently encountering dusty or muddy conditions.

Ultimately, a high-quality air intake system can be a great investment for off-road enthusiasts looking to improve the performance and longevity of their vehicles.

Whether you choose a cold air intake or a snorkel, make sure to choose a reputable brand and have the system installed by a professional to ensure proper functionality.

8. Upgrades for Rock Crawling and Extreme Offroading

Upgrades are necessary for those who take their offroading to the extreme. This is to ensure the vehicle can handle a rough, uneven trail. Here are some upgrades to consider:

• Suspension: A high-quality suspension system is essential for rock crawling and extreme offroading. Look for systems that offer adjustable shocks, long travel, and heavy-duty components.
• Tires: Tires are the most important part of any offroad vehicle. For rock crawling and extreme offroading, look for tires with aggressive tread patterns, large sidewalls, and durable construction.
• Lockers: Lockers are devices that lock the differential, allowing both wheels to turn at the same time. This is essential for rock crawling and extreme offroading, as it provides maximum traction.
• Winch: A winch is a must-have for rock crawling and extreme offroading. It allows the truck to be pulled out of tough spots and can be used to help other vehicles as well.

• Rock sliders: Rock sliders protect the sides of the vehicle from damage when crawling over rocks.

When upgrading a vehicle for rock crawling or extreme offroading, it's important to keep in mind the weight of the vehicle.

Additionally, too much-added weight can negatively affect a truck’s performance. It's also important to ensure that all upgrades are installed correctly and are compatible with each other.