Replacing the soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door models requires careful attention to the frame and zipper alignment for a proper seal. You want a top that fits tight, looks great, and stands up to weather. This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Choosing the right soft top for your four-door Wrangler can feel overwhelming. There are many brands, materials, and styles. But don’t worry. We break it down step by step.
Your 2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (JKU) is a capable machine. A good soft top keeps it versatile. You can take the top off in summer and seal it up in winter.
Soft Top For 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 Door
This section covers the best options, installation tips, and maintenance advice. We focus on factory replacements and aftermarket upgrades. You’ll learn what fits and what to avoid.
Factory Vs Aftermarket Soft Tops
Your Jeep came with a factory soft top from the dealer. These are made by Bestop for Jeep. They are reliable but expensive.
Aftermarket tops offer more choices. You can get different fabrics, colors, and window styles. Prices vary widely.
- Factory tops: Exact fit, OEM quality, higher price
- Aftermarket tops: More features, lower cost, check compatibility
Most aftermarket tops are made by Bestop anyway. Other brands include Rugged Ridge, Smittybilt, and Mopar. Always verify the top is for a 4-door JKU model, not a two-door.
Key Features To Look For
When shopping for a soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door, consider these features. They affect durability and ease of use.
- Fabric quality: Twill fabric is quieter and more durable than sailcloth. It resists fading and cracking.
- Window material: Clear vinyl windows scratch easily. Some tops offer tinted or zippered windows.
- Frame design: A tension bow system keeps the top tight. Avoid tops that sag in the middle.
- Zipper quality: Heavy-duty zippers last longer. Look for YKK zippers.
- Installation ease: Some tops require drilling. Others use existing holes.
You want a top that installs without frustration. Read reviews from other JKU owners.
Bestop Supertop NX Review
The Bestop Supertop NX is the most popular soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door. It replaces the factory top directly. It uses the same factory channel mounts.
This top features a twill fabric that is quieter than stock. The windows are tinted and zippered. You can fold it back into a sunrider position.
- Pros: Great fit, quiet, easy to operate, lifetime warranty on frame
- Cons: Expensive, windows can scratch over time
Installation takes about 2-3 hours with two people. The instructions are clear. You need basic tools like a socket set and screwdriver.
Rugged Ridge Soft Top Options
Rugged Ridge offers a more budget-friendly soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door. Their tops use sailcloth fabric. They are slightly louder than twill but still durable.
The Rugged Ridge top includes a tinted rear window and side windows. The frame is powder-coated steel. It mounts to the factory roll bar.
- Pros: Lower price, solid construction, good warranty
- Cons: Heavier fabric, not as quiet as twill
Some users report the zippers are stiff at first. They loosen up after a few weeks. Make sure you lubricate the zippers with silicone spray.
Smittybilt Soft Tops
Smittybilt makes affordable soft tops for JKU models. Their tops are basic but functional. They work well for off-road use.
The Smittybilt top uses a heavy-duty vinyl fabric. It is not as refined as Bestop. But it gets the job done.
- Pros: Very affordable, easy to install, rugged
- Cons: Noisier, less insulation, windows may yellow
If you are on a tight budget, this is a decent option. Just know you get what you pay for. The fit may not be perfect.
Installation Steps For A Soft Top
Installing a soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door is a DIY job. Follow these steps for a proper seal.
- Remove the old top: Unzip all windows. Unsnap the fabric from the roll bar. Remove the frame if needed.
- Clean the channels: Wipe down the door surrounds and windshield header. Dirt prevents a good seal.
- Assemble the new frame: Most tops come with a pre-assembled frame. You just need to attach the bows.
- Mount the frame: Attach the frame to the roll bar using the provided brackets. Tighten bolts but don’t overtighten.
- Attach the fabric: Drape the fabric over the frame. Start at the front and work back. Snap it into place.
- Install windows: Zip in the side windows first. Then the rear window. Make sure zippers align.
- Adjust tension: Tighten the tension straps at the rear corners. This prevents flapping.
Check all seals around the doors. If you see gaps, adjust the door surrounds. A proper seal stops leaks and wind noise.
Common Installation Mistakes
Many people mess up the installation of a soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door. Avoid these errors.
- Skipping the tension adjustment: Loose tops flap and leak. Always tighten the rear straps.
- Forcing zippers: If a zipper sticks, use silicone spray. Never force it or you’ll break the teeth.
- Wrong frame orientation: Some frames have a front and back. Check the manual before mounting.
- Not aligning door surrounds: Misaligned surrounds cause wind noise. Adjust them with the included spacers.
Take your time. Rushing leads to frustration. Watch a video tutorial if needed.
Maintenance Tips For Long Life
A soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door needs regular care. Here’s how to make it last.
- Clean regularly: Use mild soap and water. Avoid harsh detergents that damage the fabric.
- Protect the fabric: Apply a UV protectant spray every few months. This prevents fading and cracking.
- Lubricate zippers: Use silicone spray on all zippers twice a year. This keeps them smooth.
- Store properly: If you remove the top, store it in a cool, dry place. Fold it loosely to avoid creases.
- Check seals: Inspect the rubber seals around the doors. Replace them if they crack.
With proper care, a quality soft top lasts 5-7 years. Cheap tops may only last 2-3 years.
Weather Performance And Noise
Soft tops are noisier than hard tops. But modern twill fabrics are much quieter. Expect some wind noise at highway speeds.
In rain, a good soft top should not leak. But check the seals after installation. If you see water, adjust the tension or add weatherstripping.
Snow and ice can be a problem. Heavy snow may sag the top. Brush it off gently. Ice can crack cold windows. Warm up the Jeep before operating the top.
Sun exposure fades fabric over time. Park in the shade when possible. Use a UV protectant spray.
Cost Comparison
Prices for a soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door vary widely. Here’s a rough breakdown.
- Bestop Supertop NX: $900 – $1,200
- Rugged Ridge: $600 – $800
- Smittybilt: $400 – $600
- Factory Mopar replacement: $1,000 – $1,400
You also need to factor in shipping and taxes. Some retailers offer free shipping. Look for sales around holidays.
Buying a used soft top can save money. But inspect it for tears, broken zippers, and worn fabric. Used tops often have missing parts.
Where To Buy
You can buy a soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door from several places.
- Quadratec: Large selection, good customer service, frequent sales
- ExtremeTerrain: Competitive prices, fast shipping
- Amazon: Wide range, read reviews carefully
- Bestop direct: Official source, full warranty
- Local Jeep dealers: Expensive but you get OEM parts
Check return policies before buying. Some tops are non-returnable if installed.
Alternatives To A Full Soft Top
If you want more versatility, consider a soft top with a removable rear section. Some tops allow you to zip out the back window for a safari look.
Another option is a bikini top. This covers only the front seats. It offers sun protection but no weather protection.
A soft top with a sunrider feature lets you fold back the front section. This is great for quick open-air driving.
You can also get a soft top that works with a hard top. Some models have a soft top that attaches to the hard top’s door surrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a soft top on my 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door by myself?
Yes, but it is easier with two people. The frame is heavy and awkward. A helper makes alignment simpler.
How long does a soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door last?
With proper care, 5-7 years. Twill fabric lasts longer than sailcloth. UV exposure and cold weather shorten lifespan.
Will a soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door fit with a sound bar?
Yes, most soft tops are designed to work with the factory sound bar. Check the product details to be sure.
Can I use a soft top in winter?
Yes, but expect more noise and potential ice buildup. Warm up the Jeep before operating zippers or folding the top.
Do I need to remove my hard top to install a soft top?
Yes, you must remove the hard top first. The soft top uses different mounting points. Store the hard top safely.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right soft top for 2016 Jeep Wrangler 4 door depends on your budget and needs. Bestop is the gold standard. Rugged Ridge offers good value. Smittybilt works for tight budgets.
Take your time with installation. A proper seal prevents leaks and noise. Maintain the top regularly for years of service.
Your Wrangler is built for adventure. A quality soft top lets you enjoy it in any weather. Happy driving.