JL Wrangler owners often choose aftermarket mirrors that mount to the door hinges when running doorless. Finding the right **Jeep Wrangler Jl Mirrors Doors Off** setup is key to staying legal and safe while enjoying open-air driving. This guide covers everything you need to know about mirrors for doorless driving on your JL.
Driving without doors is one of the best parts of owning a Wrangler. But you still need mirrors to see behind you and to follow traffic laws. Most states require at least one side mirror. Some require two. The stock mirrors won’t work once you remove the doors. So you need a dedicated solution.
Let’s break down your options. We’ll cover hinge-mounted mirrors, A-pillar mounts, and even some DIY tricks. By the end, you’ll know exactly which mirrors fit your JL and your budget.
Jeep Wrangler Jl Mirrors Doors Off
When you take the doors off your JL, you lose the factory mirrors. The door hinge is the most common mounting point for replacement mirrors. These mirrors attach directly to the hinge where the door used to sit. They are sturdy and easy to install.
Hinge-mounted mirrors come in two main styles. Some use the upper door hinge. Others use the lower hinge. Each has pros and cons. Let’s look at the most popular options.
Upper Hinge Mount Mirrors
Upper hinge mirrors attach to the top hinge on the door opening. They sit higher up, which gives you a better view of traffic behind you. Many JL owners prefer this position because it feels more natural.
- Better visibility compared to lower mounts
- Less vibration at highway speeds
- Easy to install with basic tools
- Some models fold flat when not in use
Popular brands include Rugged Ridge, Mopar, and DV8. These mirrors typically cost between $50 and $150. They come with all the hardware you need. Most require you to remove the hinge pin and replace it with a longer bolt.
Lower Hinge Mount Mirrors
Lower hinge mirrors attach to the bottom hinge. They sit closer to the body of the Jeep. This can make them less visible from the driver’s seat. But they are often more secure because the lower hinge is stronger.
Some drivers find lower mounts cause more vibration. The mirror arm is longer to reach up to eye level. This extra length can wobble on rough roads. But for off-road use, they are fine.
Brands like JKS and Smittybilt offer lower hinge options. They are usually cheaper than upper hinge mirrors. Expect to pay $40 to $100.
A-Pillar Mount Mirrors
Another option is A-pillar mounted mirrors. These attach to the windshield frame near the A-pillar. They don’t use the door hinges at all. This can be a good choice if you want to keep your hinges free for other accessories.
A-pillar mirrors are less common. They can be harder to adjust. But they offer a clean look. Some JL owners use them as a secondary mirror for off-road trails.
Installation is more involved. You may need to drill into the windshield frame. This is permanent. Make sure you are happy with the position before drilling.
Legal Requirements For Doorless Driving
Every state has different laws about mirrors. Most require at least one rearview mirror. Some require both side mirrors. Check your local laws before driving doorless.
In general, you need a mirror that gives you a clear view of traffic behind you. The mirror must be adjustable. It must stay in place while driving. Wobbly mirrors can get you pulled over.
Some states also require the mirror to be a certain size. A small round mirror might not meet the requirement. Look for mirrors that are at least 4 inches in diameter. Larger is better for visibility.
Safety Considerations
Safety is more important than legality. Without doors, you have less protection. Mirrors help you see blind spots. They also help other drivers see you.
Always test your mirrors before driving. Adjust them so you can see the lane next to you. Check for vibration at highway speeds. If the mirror shakes too much, tighten the bolts or add a stabilizer.
Consider adding a rearview mirror too. Some JL owners use a clamp-on mirror that attaches to the roll bar. This gives you a center view. It helps when backing up or changing lanes.
Installation Guide For Hinge Mount Mirrors
Installing hinge mount mirrors is a simple DIY job. You only need a few tools. Most mirrors come with instructions. But here is a general guide.
- Remove the door. This is obvious, but make sure the door is off before starting.
- Locate the hinge pin on the upper or lower hinge. It is a small bolt that holds the hinge together.
- Remove the hinge pin using a socket wrench. Keep the pin in a safe place.
- Place the mirror bracket over the hinge. Align the holes.
- Insert the new longer bolt that came with the mirror kit. Tighten it by hand first.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten to spec. Do not overtighten.
- Attach the mirror arm to the bracket. Adjust the mirror angle.
- Repeat on the other side.
Thats it. The whole process takes about 30 minutes. Some mirrors require you to remove the hinge completely. Others use a clamp that goes around the hinge. Follow the specific instructions for your brand.
Common Installation Mistakes
Here are a few things to avoid. First, don’t use the wrong size bolt. If the bolt is too long, it can damage the hinge. If it’s too short, the mirror will be loose.
Second, don’t overtighten. The hinge is made of steel, but the threads can strip. Use a torque wrench if you have one. 15-20 foot-pounds is usually enough.
Third, check the mirror position before tightening fully. Sit in the driver’s seat and adjust. Make sure you can see the lane behind you. Adjust the angle so you don’t have to lean forward.
Best Jeep Wrangler JL Mirrors For Doors Off
There are many brands to choose from. Here are the top picks based on quality, price, and ease of use.
Rugged Ridge 13531.01 Mirrors
These are upper hinge mirrors. They are made of durable plastic and steel. The mirror head is large and convex for a wide view. They fold flat when not in use. This is handy if you park in a tight garage.
Installation is straightforward. They come with all hardware. The price is around $80. They work on JL and JK models. Many owners say they have minimal vibration.
Mopar 82215182AB Mirrors
These are factory accessories from Jeep. They are designed specifically for the JL. They mount to the upper hinge. They match the look of the stock mirrors.
Mopar mirrors are expensive. They cost about $150. But they are high quality. They have a built-in turn signal on some models. Installation is easy. They come with clear instructions.
DV8 Offroad MTH-01 Mirrors
DV8 makes lower hinge mirrors. They are made of aluminum and steel. They are very sturdy. The mirror arm is adjustable for height and angle.
These mirrors cost around $100. They have a matte black finish that looks good on any JL. Some owners say they vibrate a bit at high speed. Adding a small rubber washer can help.
JKS Manufacturing 3400 Mirrors
JKS mirrors are unique. They mount to the lower hinge but have a spring-loaded arm. This lets you fold the mirror forward when not in use. They are very secure.
These mirrors are about $120. They are made in the USA. The build quality is excellent. They come with a lifetime warranty. Many off-road enthusiasts prefer JKS.
Cheap Alternatives
If you are on a budget, you can find mirrors for under $50. Brands like Aries and Westin make basic hinge mirrors. They are not as sturdy, but they work for occasional use.
You can also buy universal mirrors from Amazon. These often come with multiple mounting brackets. They may require some modification. But they can save you money.
Be careful with cheap mirrors. They may vibrate a lot. They might not fit perfectly. Read reviews before buying. Look for mirrors that have been tested on the JL.
Maintenance And Care
Doorless mirrors take a beating. They are exposed to wind, rain, and mud. Clean them regularly. Use a mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the plastic.
Check the bolts every month. Vibration can loosen them over time. Tighten them if needed. Apply a little thread locker to prevent loosening.
If you store your mirrors, keep them in a dry place. The rubber gaskets can dry out if left in the sun. Use a silicone spray to keep them supple.
Winter Use
Some JL owners drive doorless in winter. This is rare, but possible. If you do, your mirrors will face snow and ice. Make sure they are made of materials that can handle cold temperatures.
Plastic mirrors can become brittle in extreme cold. Metal mirrors are better. Also, consider heated mirrors if you drive in cold climates. Some aftermarket mirrors have heating elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need mirrors when driving without doors on a JL?
Yes, in most states you need at least one side mirror. Some states require two. Check your local laws. Even if not required, mirrors are important for safety.
Can I use the stock mirrors on a doorless JL?
No, the stock mirrors are attached to the doors. Once you remove the doors, the mirrors come off too. You need aftermarket mirrors that mount to the hinges or A-pillar.
What is the best mirror for a Jeep Wrangler JL with doors off?
The best mirror depends on your budget and needs. Rugged Ridge and Mopar are top choices. For lower cost, try DV8 or JKS. All are reliable for doorless driving.
How do I stop my doorless mirrors from vibrating?
Tighten all bolts. Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightness. Add rubber washers between the bracket and hinge. Some mirrors come with anti-vibration pads. If vibration persists, consider a different mount position.
Are there mirrors that fold flat for storage?
Yes, many hinge mirrors fold flat. Rugged Ridge and Mopar models have this feature. It helps when parking in tight spaces or storing the mirrors in the trunk.
Driving your JL without doors is a blast. With the right mirrors, you can stay safe and legal. Whether you choose upper hinge, lower hinge, or A-pillar mounts, make sure they are secure. Test them before hitting the road. Enjoy the open air and the freedom of doorless driving.
Remember to check your mirrors before every drive. Adjust them for your seating position. Keep them clean and tight. With proper care, your Jeep Wrangler JL mirrors for doors off will last for years.
Now you have all the info you need. Pick a set of mirrors that fits your style and budget. Install them yourself in under an hour. Then hit the trail or the highway with confidence. You’ll wonder why you didn’t go doorless sooner.
If you have any questions, ask in the comments below. Many JL owners share their experiences online. You can also check forums like JL Wrangler Forums for more tips. Happy driving.