13 Best Jeep Gladiator Mods Accessories

The Jeep Gladiator is one of the most versatile trucks ever built—blending rugged off-road capability with everyday practicality. Whether you’re gearing up for overlanding, hauling tools, or chasing trails on the weekend, the right upgrades can dramatically enhance your Gladiator’s performance, comfort, and utility.

Here are 13 must-have Jeep Gladiator mods and accessories to help you make the most of your truck—covering everything from protection and performance to organization and adventure-ready features.

Best Jeep Gladiator Accessories and Mods

1. Soft Top or Truck Cap

A soft truck cap is one of the most practical and adventure-ready upgrades you can add to your Jeep Gladiator. It gives you the perfect balance between cargo protection and that open-air freedom Jeep drivers crave.

The WildTop Gladiator Soft Toppers (starting around $1,100 - $1,300) combines strength, versatility, and style in one modular system. Built with 16oz heavy-duty waterproof canvas and a 2mm coated aluminum frame, it’s tough enough for the trail yet light enough to remove in minutes. The no-drill installation takes about 90 minutes, while the entire topper can be folded forward or removed in under three minutes. 

Every detail is engineered for real-world performance - from YKK heavy-duty zippers and magnetic roll-up sides to 3mm reinforced gussets and stainless steel rust-proof hardware. With a static load rating of 770 lbs and dynamic rating of 220 lbs, it’s strong enough to support rooftop tents or ladder racks while keeping your bed space clean, dry, and organized.

Benefits: 100% waterproof, UV-resistant, lightweight, and built for off-road use, the WildTop Soft Truck Cap keeps your gear protected and your Gladiator looking trail-ready, no matter the conditions.

NEW – WildTop recently launched their Beast model, which starts at $2199 and builds on all of the award winning features of their standard topper while offering a class leading 1500lbs static load rating capacity.

2. Bed Racks

If you love camping or hauling adventure gear, a bed rack system is essential. High-quality racks like those from Leitner Designs or Rhino-Rack typically range from $800–$1,500, depending on size and materials. Bed racks allow you to mount rooftop tents, kayaks, recovery boards, fuel cans, and storage boxes while freeing up your bed for other cargo. Most use powder-coated steel or aluminum, making them both strong and corrosion-resistant.

Benefits: Expands cargo space vertically, improves organization, and allows for quick setup of overland gear. 

3. All-Terrain Tires

A tire upgrade instantly changes how your Gladiator performs on and off the road. Popular all-terrain tires like BFGoodrich KO2, Falken Wildpeak A/T3W, or Nitto Ridge Grappler cost between $250–$400 per tire, depending on size. These tires feature reinforced sidewalls, deeper tread blocks, and optimized rubber compounds for superior grip on dirt, gravel, and wet pavement.

Benefits: Enhanced traction, better load-carrying capacity, and improved off-road confidence without sacrificing highway comfort. If you’re frequently off-roading, consider mud-terrain tires for maximum bite in rocky or muddy terrain.

4. Suspension Lift Kit

If you’re serious about exploring rough terrain, a suspension lift kit is a game-changer. Entry-level 2-inch kits start around $500, while premium setups from Teraflex, FOX, or Bilstein can reach $2,000–$3,000. A lift kit increases ground clearance and allows room for larger tires, improving articulation and approach angles. Many kits include upgraded shocks, control arms, and sway bar links for a smoother ride both on and off the trail.

Benefits: Better handling on uneven surfaces, improved off-road performance, and a tougher stance. It’s one of the most transformative Jeep mods for both looks and capability.

5. LED Light Bars & Pods

Light up the trail with LED light bars or cube pods—essential for off-roading or nighttime setups. Brands like Rigid Industries, Baja Designs, and KC HiLiTES offer options ranging from $100 for small pods to $800+ for full-width bars. These lights produce thousands of lumens with minimal power draw and come with weather-sealed housings to withstand harsh elements.

Benefits: Dramatically improved visibility for night driving, camping, and recovery situations. Most can be mounted to roof racks, bumpers, or A-pillars for customized lighting coverage.

6. Skid Plates

Protect your investment with heavy-duty skid plates—a must-have if you take your Gladiator off-road. Kits from Artec Industries or Rusty’s Off-Road typically cost between $400–$1,200, depending on coverage. Made from 3/16" steel or 1/4" aluminum, these plates guard key components like your transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank.

Benefits: Prevents costly damage from rocks and debris, adds rigidity to the undercarriage, and gives peace of mind when tackling rocky or uneven trails.

7. Rock Sliders

Rock sliders protect your Gladiator’s rocker panels from trail damage and double as convenient side steps. Expect to pay around $600–$1,200 for premium sliders from MetalCloak, LOD Offroad, or Fab Fours. Built from tubular steel with a powder-coated finish, they’re designed to bear the full weight of the vehicle in case of side impact.

Benefits: Protects against dents and scrapes, adds a rugged aesthetic, and offers practical footing when entering or exiting lifted Jeeps.

8. Tonneau Cover

A tonneau cover gives your Gladiator a clean, streamlined look while keeping your cargo safe from weather and theft. Soft roll-up covers start around $350, while hard folding or retractable versions can cost $900–$1,500. Look for brands like BAKFlip, Retrax, or TruXedo. These covers install easily, improve aerodynamics, and lock securely.

Benefits: Protects gear from the elements, enhances fuel efficiency, and keeps your bed looking neat.

9. Roof Rack or Crossbars

When bed space isn’t enough, roof racks and crossbars add another layer of utility. High-quality systems from Yakima, Rhino-Rack, or Front Runner range from $500–$1,200. These racks allow you to mount bikes, surfboards, or cargo boxes on top of your cab, leaving your bed free for other gear.

Benefits: Ideal for long trips or overland adventures, they maximize storage while maintaining aerodynamics. Many integrate with accessory mounts for lights, shovels, or traction boards.

10. Tailgate Table

Compact and practical, a tailgate table transforms your Jeep’s tailgate into a prep station or workbench. Available from MOLLE or Teraflex for $150–$300, these folding tables are made from steel or aluminum with powder-coated finishes. They mount directly to the inside of your tailgate, fold flat when not in use, and include cup holders or gear hooks.

Benefits: Perfect for camping, overlanding, or roadside repairs. You’ll use it far more often than you think—from coffee breaks to tool storage.

11. Off-Road Bumpers

Upgrading to off-road bumpers adds protection and style to your Gladiator. Front bumpers with winch mounts start around $700, while full steel rear bumpers can run up to $1,200–$1,800. Look for models from Smittybilt, Rugged Ridge, or Fab Fours that include D-ring mounts and high-clearance designs.

Benefits: Increased protection during off-road impacts, improved approach/departure angles, and mounting options for winches, lights, or recovery gear.

12. Recovery Gear

Every off-roader needs a recovery kit—because even the best drivers get stuck sometimes. A solid starter kit includes tow straps, shackles, traction boards, and a portable air compressor, usually priced between $150–$400. Brands like ARB, Warn, and MAXTRAX offer high-quality options built for real-world trail use.

Benefits: Ensures you can self-recover or assist others when traction disappears. Recovery gear provides safety, independence, and confidence to explore tougher trails.

13. Storage Solutions

Organization is key when packing for adventure. Bed drawers, cargo boxes, and MOLLE panels from Decked, Go Rhino, or BuiltRight Industries range from $200 for smaller kits to $1,500+ for full drawer systems. These products keep your tools, camping gear, and recovery items secure and easy to reach.

Benefits: Maximizes cargo efficiency, keeps items from shifting, and allows quick access to what you need on the go.

Final Thoughts

Every Jeep Gladiator tells a story—and the right mods make that story your own. From WildTop soft toppers to durable racks and storage systems, these upgrades enhance your truck’s performance, style, and practicality. Start small or build big, but invest in quality gear designed to last through every trail, storm, and road trip.

FAQs

What are the first mods I should add to my Jeep Gladiator?

Start with functional essentials—like a soft topper, bed rack, or all-terrain tires. These upgrades improve versatility and performance right away without major modifications.

Do Jeep Gladiator mods affect warranty coverage?

Most bolt-on accessories won’t void your factory warranty unless they directly cause a failure. Always confirm with your dealer before installing lift kits or powertrain upgrades.

How much does it cost to modify a Jeep Gladiator?

You can start upgrading for as little as $500–$1,000, but serious builds with lift kits, bumpers, and racks can exceed $10,000+ depending on your setup and parts quality.

Are WildTop soft toppers compatible with other bed racks?

No. There’s also no need to purchase a separate bed rack. WildTop’s canvas truck toppers come with the bed rack included.

Written & Reviewed by Tiziano Cuce