Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Jeep Easter Eggs on a 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

My Complete Easter Egg Hunt Guide


For years, I've heard Jeep owners talk about Easter Eggs.

Some people are obsessed with finding them.

Others insist half of them aren't actually Easter Eggs.

After owning multiple Wranglers and spending the last several weeks conducting my own Easter Egg Hunt on Purple Reign, my 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, I've discovered one thing:

The hunt is fun.

The debate is even more fun.

Today I'm sharing every Easter Egg, hidden detail, heritage tribute, and design feature I found on my 2023 JL Rubicon.


Quick Answer: What Are Jeep Easter Eggs?

Jeep Easter Eggs are intentional design details, hidden graphics, heritage tributes, or fun surprises incorporated into Jeep vehicles by designers. The first widely recognized Jeep Easter Egg appeared on the 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ when designer Michael Santoro incorporated a hidden seven-slot grille design into the cowl. Today, Jeep Easter Eggs include hidden Willys Jeeps, grille references, historical tributes, startup screens, and other design details throughout the vehicle.


Recommended Reading

New to off-roading or Jeep trail driving? These guides may help:


My Jeep Easter Egg Journey

My Easter Egg obsession didn't start with my JL.

It started eight years ago with my 2015 JK Rubicon.

While creating my very first Jeep Easter Egg video, I noticed something that most people overlooked. The layout of the buttons and knobs on the center stack resembled Jeep's iconic seven-slot grille.


Hidden Jeep grille Easter egg in the buttons on the center consoleneath the climate controls in a Jeep Wrangler.


Years later, after purchasing Purple Reign, my 2023 JL Rubicon, I decided to see how many Easter Eggs and hidden details I could find.

What started as a simple search turned into a full-blown scavenger hunt.





What Was the First Jeep Easter Egg?

Most Jeep historians and enthusiasts trace the first Jeep Easter Egg back to the 1997 Wrangler TJ.

Designer Michael Santoro incorporated a subtle seven-slot grille shape into the cowl near the windshield as a tribute to Jeep heritage.

At the time, nobody knew they were witnessing the beginning of what would become one of Jeep's most beloved traditions.

Today, Jeep owners actively search for Easter Eggs in every new model.


Close-up of the hidden Jeep Easter egg molded into the windshield cowl of a purple Jeep Wrangler near the windshield wiper.
One of Jeep's hidden Easter eggs is
 tucked into the windshield cowl.



My 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Easter Egg Hunt

The Willys Jeep Hidden on the Wheel

One of the easiest Easter Eggs to find is the tiny Willys Jeep hidden in the wheel.

Once you see it, you can't unsee it.

This little Willys pays tribute to Jeep's military roots and is one of the most recognizable Easter Eggs found on modern Wranglers.


Close-up of a Jeep Wrangler wheel showing the hidden red Willys Jeep Easter egg molded into the wheel spoke.
Willys Jeep inside the Wrangler's wheel


The Willys Jeep on the Shifter

Another Willys silhouette appears on the shift knob.

This is one of my favorites because every time you shift gears you're reminded of where Jeep's story began.

The original Willys MB helped define the Jeep brand, and this small tribute connects today's Rubicon to its historic roots.


Close-up of a Jeep Wrangler automatic shift knob featuring a hidden Willys Jeep Easter egg engraved on the top.
The classic Willys Jeep engraved
on the top of the shift knob


The Seven-Slot Grille Hidden in the Tail Light

This is probably the most famous JL Easter Egg.

Look closely at the rear tail light and you'll find Jeep's iconic seven-slot grille molded into the lens.

Many owners drive their Jeep for years before noticing it.

Once someone points it out, it's impossible to miss.


Hidden Seven-Slot Grille

The JL Badge Hidden in the Cargo Area

While exploring the rear cargo area, I discovered a small JL logo molded into the plastic trim.

At first glance, it doesn't seem like much.

It's not flashy.

It's not obvious.

It's simply a subtle nod to the JL generation Wrangler.

But Jeep didn't stop there.

Just beneath the JL logo is a row of Morse code. When translated, it spells "JL" another clever hidden detail that most owners never notice.

These subtle touches are what make hunting for Jeep Easter eggs so much fun. The more closely you look, the more surprises you'll find hidden throughout your Wrangler.


Close-up of the hidden JL logo molded into the Jeep Wrangler cargo area trim with Morse code beneath it that spells "JL."
One of the most overlooked Jeep Easter eggs 
hidden in the rear cargo area


The Windshield Cowl and Seven-Slot Heritage

Many Jeep enthusiasts point to the cowl near the windshield as a continuation of the original TJ Easter Egg tradition.

The design contains subtle references to Jeep's iconic seven-slot grille.

It's another example of Jeep designers incorporating heritage into modern Wranglers.


Jeep Since 1941 Startup Screen

Every time I start Purple Reign, the infotainment screen displays "Jeep Since 1941."

Some owners consider this branding.

Others call it an Easter Egg.

Regardless of what label you use, it serves as a reminder that Jeep's history stretches back more than eight decades.


Rubicon Startup Screen

Rubicon owners receive a unique startup graphic featuring the front of a Rubicon.

It's not hidden, but it is a fun detail specific to Rubicon models.


The Steering Wheel Heritage Tribute

One detail many owners overlook is the steering wheel itself.

The three raised sections surrounding the Jeep logo are believed to be inspired by steering wheel designs used on early Willys Jeeps.

This is where the Easter Egg debate starts getting interesting.

Is it an Easter Egg?

Or simply a design tribute?


This one isn't showing an Easter egg itself, but it's a great contextual image to introduce the section about looking for hidden Jeep Easter eggs inside your Wrangler.
Tribute to Willys Steering Wheel


The Tailgate Information Placard

This may be the most debated Jeep Easter Egg on the internet.

The tailgate placard contains wheelbase measurements, overall vehicle dimensions, water fording depths, manufacturing information, and Jeep heritage details.

Some Jeep owners insist it isn't an Easter Egg because it's visible and informative.

Others argue it absolutely is because Jeep intentionally created a heritage-inspired information plate that most owners never pay attention to.

Personally?

I think it can be both.


Close-up of the Jeep Wrangler JL factory specification plate mounted on the driver's side door jamb showing vehicle dimensions and off-road specifications.
Showcases Jeep's off-road heritage


The Door Hinge Torx Size

One detail I had never noticed before is that Jeep molded the Torx size directly into the door hinge.

Need to remove your doors?

The information is right there.

Functional?

Absolutely.

Easter Egg?

That's where the debate begins.


Close-up of a Jeep Wrangler door hinge


The Fuel Door

Even the fuel door contains Jeep branding molded into the inside of the cap.

It's a small detail that many owners never notice.

Whether you consider it an Easter Egg or simply branding probably depends on your definition.

Close-up of a Jeep Wrangler fuel filler door opened to reveal the embossed Jeep logo on the inside of the fuel door.
Jeep Wrangler Fuel Door with Jeep Logo


The Cup Holder Surprise

One thing I expected to find was missing.

On my 2015 JK Rubicon, the cup holders featured seven slots that resembled Jeep's grille.

The JL cup holder design changed because Jeep incorporated a location for the key fob.

No seven-slot grille here.

Sometimes the Easter Egg hunt is just as much about finding what's different as it is finding what's hidden.


Jeep Wrangler center console featuring dual cup holders and interior storage area.
JL Wrangler cup holder

What Actually Qualifies as a Jeep Easter Egg?

This is where Jeep owners start arguing.

Some believe an Easter Egg must be:

  • Hidden
  • Difficult to find
  • Non-functional
  • Intentionally placed as a surprise

Others include:

  • Historical tributes
  • Heritage references
  • Willys silhouettes
  • Seven-slot grille designs
  • Special startup graphics
  • Unique model-specific details

And that's why you see so much disagreement online.

Someone says the Willys on the windshield isn't an Easter Egg.

Someone else says it is.

Someone says the tailgate placard is just information.

Someone else says it's a heritage tribute.

Who gets to decide?

Honestly, I'm not sure anyone does.


Does It Really Matter?

After researching Jeep Easter Eggs, digging through forums, and spending way too much time staring at my Wrangler, I've come to a simple conclusion.

The point isn't whether every hidden detail meets someone's definition of an Easter Egg.

The point is that Jeep designers intentionally filled these vehicles with nods to Jeep history.

They reward curious owners.

They encourage us to look closer.

And they give Jeep enthusiasts something fun to talk about.

Whether you call them Easter Eggs, design tributes, hidden details, or heritage references, they're part of what makes owning a Jeep different.

And once you start looking for them, you'll never stop finding them.


Frequently Asked Questions About Jeep Easter Eggs

What was the first Jeep Easter Egg?

Most Jeep enthusiasts consider the hidden seven-slot grille incorporated into the cowl of the 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ to be the first official Jeep Easter Egg.

Who created the first Jeep Easter Egg?

The first widely recognized Jeep Easter Egg is credited to Jeep designer Michael Santoro.

Are Easter Eggs found in every Jeep Wrangler?

Most modern Jeep Wranglers contain multiple Easter Eggs, though the number varies by model year and trim level.

Is the Willys Jeep on the windshield an Easter Egg?

Many Jeep owners consider it an Easter Egg because it is an intentional tribute to Jeep heritage. Others classify it as a design tribute.

Is the JL tailgate placard an Easter Egg?

There is no universal agreement. Some owners consider it an Easter Egg while others view it as an informational heritage plate.

Why does Jeep hide Easter Eggs?

Jeep designers use Easter Eggs to celebrate Jeep history, honor the Willys Jeep, connect generations of Wranglers, and create fun discoveries for owners.


Recommended Jeep Wrangler Tips

👉 What is the Jeep Black Hole?
👉 7 Hidden Jeep Wrangler Easter Eggs
👉 Jeep Wrangler Drain Plugs Explained

Watch Jeep Momma's  First Easter Egg Video (2017)


Final Thoughts

My Easter Egg Hunt started with a simple goal: find hidden details in my 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.

Instead, it became a lesson in Jeep history.

The more I looked, the more details I found.

And the more I found, the more I realized the real fun isn't discovering the Easter Eggs.

It's debating what qualifies as one.



Written by Tammy "Jeep Momma" Forsyth  - a Jeep Wrangler owner, off-road enthusiast, and content creator who has explored trails across Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, and beyond. Through Jeep Momma, she shares firsthand Wrangler ownership experiences, trail guides, DIY modifications, camping setups, and Jeep community stories to help new and experienced Jeep owners get more from their adventures.

👉About Jeep Momma





Tuesday, June 23, 2026

How to Make Your Jeep 2.0 Turbo Last Longer

Real-World Tips That Actually Work

If you own a Jeep Wrangler with the 2.0L turbo engine, you’ve probably heard mixed opinions about it. Some Jeep owners love the power and fuel economy, while others question long-term reliability.

Close-up view of a 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon hood in Reign Purple with a 2.0L Turbo hood scoop, parked beside a peaceful river surrounded by lush green trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Reign Purple and river views 💜


Here are some of the truths from real-world experience:

The Jeep 2.0 turbo is a solid engine if you take care of it.

I’ve known my fair share of engine problems over the years, especially with my first Rubicon. Working at TNT Customs, an auto repair and custom Jeep build shop in Cheyenne, Wyoming, I’ve also seen a lot of engine issues come through the shop. One thing becomes very clear after being around Jeeps every day:

Maintenance matters.

That’s one reason I now make engine care a top priority with my 2023 Jeep Wrangler 2.0L turbo. Whether it’s daily driving, cold Midwest winters, short trips, or trail riding, taking care of your turbo engine makes all the difference in long-term reliability.

Turbo engines aren’t necessarily high-maintenance… but they are maintenance-sensitive.

Here are the maintenance tips that actually help your Jeep 2.0 turbo last longer.


Recommended Reading


Stay Strict on Oil Changes (This Is #1 for Turbo Longevity)

Turbo engines run hotter than naturally aspirated engines and rely heavily on clean oil for both lubrication and cooling.

Best practices for Jeep 2.0 turbo oil changes:

  • Change your oil every 3,000–5,000 miles
  • Always use full synthetic oil
  • Most Jeep 2.0 engines use 0W-20 (always verify in your owner’s manual)
  • Use a high-quality oil filter

Why this matters

Dirty oil breaks down faster under turbo heat. Over time, poor oil maintenance can lead to premature turbo wear, sludge buildup, and expensive repairs.

Quick Answer

How often should you change oil in a Jeep 2.0 turbo?
➡️ Every 3,000–5,000 miles using full synthetic oil for the best turbo longevity.



Let Your Jeep Warm Up in Cold Weather

If you live in colder climates like Wyoming or the Midwest, this step is important.

What to do:

  • Don’t immediately hammer the throttle after startup
  • Let the engine idle for 30–60 seconds
  • Drive gently until the engine reaches operating temperature

Why this matters

Cold oil doesn’t flow properly through the turbo system right away. Giving your engine a little time to warm up helps protect internal turbo components from unnecessary wear.


Front three-quarter view of a 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon in Reign Purple parked on a snowy residential street, showcasing the aggressive hood design, iconic seven-slot grille, and rugged winter-ready stance.
My happy place has seven slots



Let the Turbo Cool Down Before Shutting Off

After highway driving, towing, mountain driving, or long uphill pulls:

What to do:

  • Let your Jeep idle for 30–60 seconds before turning it off

Why this matters

Turbochargers get extremely hot. Shutting the engine off immediately after heavy driving can cause oil to “cook” inside the turbo housing, leading to carbon buildup over time.

Quick Answer

Should you let a turbo engine idle before shutting it off?
➡️ Yes. Letting it idle for 30–60 seconds helps reduce turbo heat and prevent long-term damage.



Keep Your Air Intake System Clean

Your turbo engine pulls in a lot more air than a naturally aspirated engine.

What to do:

  • Replace your air filter regularly
  • Change it more often if you off-road or drive gravel roads
  • Inspect and clean the intake system

Why this matters

Dirty air filters and contaminated intake systems can introduce abrasive particles into the turbo system, increasing wear over time.



Use Quality Fuel Whenever Possible

Yes, the Jeep 2.0 turbo can run on regular gas but premium fuel typically delivers better performance.

Benefits of premium fuel:

  • Reduced engine knock
  • Cleaner combustion
  • Better turbo performance
  • Less stress on the engine under load

Why this matters

Higher-quality fuel helps your turbo engine run more efficiently and can improve long-term reliability.


Watch for Early Signs of Turbo Problems

Most turbo failures don’t happen overnight. Your Jeep will usually give you warning signs first.

Common turbo failure symptoms:

  • Loss of power
  • Whining or unusual turbo noises
  • Excessive exhaust smoke
  • Increased oil consumption

Why this matters

Catching turbo issues early can save thousands in repair costs.

Quick Answer

What are signs of turbo failure in a Jeep Wrangler 2.0?
➡️ Common signs include power loss, whining noises, smoke from the exhaust, and increased oil use.



Mod Smart! Don’t Overdo Performance Upgrades

Let’s be honest… this is the Jeep world. Mods are part of the fun.

But turbocharged engines require a little more balance.

If you tune or add performance upgrades:

  • Use reputable tuners
  • Support upgrades with proper cooling
  • Stay on top of maintenance
  • Avoid cheap “high boost” tunes

Why this matters

More boost creates more heat. More heat means more stress on engine and turbo components.

You can absolutely build a reliable turbo Jeep, you just need to do it responsibly.


Follow a Severe Duty Maintenance Schedule

Even if you don’t hardcore off-road every weekend, your Jeep may still fall under “severe duty” driving conditions.

Examples include:

  • Short trips
  • Cold weather driving
  • Stop-and-go traffic
  • Towing
  • Off-road use

What to do:

Change fluids more often than the factory minimum recommendations:

  • Oil
  • Coolant
  • Transmission fluid
  • Differential fluid

Why this matters

Real-world driving conditions are often harder on your Jeep than the average maintenance schedule assumes.



The Biggest Myth About Turbo Engines

One of the biggest misconceptions is that the Jeep 2.0 turbo is automatically unreliable.

From what I’ve personally experienced and what I’ve seen working around Jeeps at TNT Customs most turbo failures are not because the engine itself is bad.

They usually happen because of:

  • Poor oil maintenance
  • Excessive heat
  • Ignoring warning signs
  • Cheap tuning
  • Neglected maintenance

If you stay ahead on maintenance and pay attention to how your Jeep feels, the 2.0 turbo can be a reliable engine for years.


You don’t need to baby your Jeep.

But you do need to respect how a turbo engine works.

A little extra attention goes a long way especially when you’re balancing daily driving, cold weather, road trips, and off-road adventures.

Taking care of your Jeep now is a whole lot cheaper than replacing a turbo later.

More Jeep Wrangler Guides

👉 How To Adjust the Driver Seat in a Jeep Wrangler
👉 Jeep Wrangler Topless Driving Tips
👉 Beginner Jeep Wrangler Maintenance Tips
👉 OAT vs HOAT Coolant: What Jeep Owners Need to Know



Written by Tammy "Jeep Momma" Forsyth  - a Jeep Wrangler owner, off-road enthusiast, and content creator who has explored trails across Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, and beyond. Through Jeep Momma, she shares firsthand Wrangler ownership experiences, trail guides, DIY modifications, camping setups, and Jeep community stories to help new and experienced Jeep owners get more from their adventures.

👉About Jeep Momma




Tuesday, June 9, 2026

What Working at TNT Customs Taught Me (That Most Drivers Don’t Realize)


What I’ve Learned Working in an Auto Shop (Quick Answer):

Working with an experienced auto shop, like TNT Customs in Cheyenne, WY, taught me that proper auto repair, preventive maintenance, and skilled diagnostics are what keep vehicles reliable long-term not quick fixes or guesswork.


Jeep Momma TNT Customs shop uniform smiling in front of a Jeep Wrangler with the hood open while a technician performs engine work in an auto repair shop
Getting a behind-the-scenes look at what goes
into keeping a Jeep running strong


Before working with an auto shop, I thought a repair was simple: something breaks, you fix it, and life moves on.

But being part of TNT Customs has completely changed how I see vehicles, maintenance, and the people who keep everything running behind the scenes.

Working behind the scenes with TNT Customs, I’ve seen firsthand how vehicles come in with both minor issues and major failures and how often those problems could have been prevented with regular maintenance.

Vehicles aren’t just machines. They’re how people get to work before sunrise. They’re how kids get to practice. They pull trailers, haul tools, carry groceries, take vacations, and sometimes carry the weight of everything going on in life.

And when something goes wrong, it’s usually not just inconvenient, it can feel stressful, expensive, and overwhelming.

Whether it’s a daily driver or a trail Jeep, the same principles apply.

Here are some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned working with a shop that sees it all.

Jeep Momma wearing sunglasses smiling next to a Jeep Wrangler with “Master Your Terrain” decal at an outdoor off-road event
From the shop to the trail, it’s all about learning,
 building, and mastering your terrain.


1. The Difference Between a Quick Fix and Proper Auto Repair

One of the first things I realized is how often vehicles come in after someone tried to save money with a shortcut somewhere else.

Sometimes the quick fix works for a little while. But often, it creates a bigger issue down the road.

Proper auto repair means taking the time to diagnose the real problem, not just patch a car repair temporarily. It means using quality parts and making sure the repair will hold up not just today, but months or years from now.

I’ve learned that good work takes experience, patience, and a willingness to do things the right way even when it would be easier not to.


2. Why Preventive Maintenance Matters More Than You Think

Oil changes, fluid checks, suspension inspections, rustproofing, undercoating… none of these feel urgent until they are.

So many major vehicle repairs actually start as small issues that were ignored because everything still seemed to be running fine.

I never realized how much our climate and road conditions affect vehicles. Moisture, salt, gravel roads, heavy loads, towing, and extreme cold,  it all adds up over time.

Preventive maintenance isn’t about spending money unnecessarily. It’s about avoiding much bigger, more expensive problems later. 

If you’re not sure where to start, here’s my Jeep maintenance checklist.


3. The Skill Behind Auto Repair Is Often Underestimated

Before this, I didn’t realize how much ongoing learning goes into modern auto repair.

Technology continues to change. Diagnostics require real problem-solving skills not guesswork. Many repairs involve a mix of hands-on mechanical knowledge and computer-based systems.

Auto technicians don’t just replace parts,  they investigate symptoms, test possibilities, and work through problems step by step.

It takes experience, training, and dedication to do this work well and it deserves more respect than it often gets.


Finally

Working with TNT Customs has given me a deeper respect for skilled trades and the people who take pride in doing things the right way.

It’s also reminded me that taking care of a vehicle isn’t just about avoiding repairs it’s about protecting something you depend on every day.

Most people don’t think about their vehicle until something goes wrong.

But once you see how much goes into keeping them running well, you realize just how important proper maintenance and trustworthy auto repair really are.

And that’s something worth appreciating.


FAQ: What I’ve Learned About Auto Repair and Maintenance

Why do quick car repairs fail?
Quick fixes often don’t address the root problem, which can lead to bigger and more expensive repairs later.

Is preventive maintenance really necessary?
Yes. Regular vehicle maintenance like oil changes, inspections, and fluid checks helps catch small issues before they turn into major repairs.

What do auto technicians actually do?
 Auto technicians diagnose, test, and repair vehicles using a combination of mechanical expertise and advanced diagnostic tools.



Written by Tammy "Jeep Momma" Forsyth  - a Jeep Wrangler owner, off-road enthusiast, and content creator who has explored trails across Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, and beyond. Through Jeep Momma, she shares firsthand Wrangler ownership experiences, trail guides, DIY modifications, camping setups, and Jeep community stories to help new and experienced Jeep owners get more from their adventures.

👉About Jeep Momma



Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Jeep Suspension Basics Explained (What Every Jeep Owner Should Know)

Quick Answer:

Your Jeep’s suspension system controls how your vehicle handles bumps, uneven terrain, and off-road obstacles. It directly impacts ride comfort, traction, stability, and overall performance both on the road and on the trail.

Jeep Wrangler flexing suspension over rocks on forest trail showing articulation and off-road capability
This is what suspension is built for...


When I first got into Jeeps, suspension was one of those things I knew mattered… but didn’t fully understand.

Working around builds, upgrades, and repairs at TNT Customs, I’ve seen firsthand how much your suspension system affects everything from daily driving comfort to how your Jeep performs on the trail.

Whether you’re driving a stock Jeep or starting to think about upgrades, understanding the basics gives you confidence behind the wheel and helps you make smarter decisions for your build.


Key Components of a Jeep Suspension System

1. Springs (Your Ride Foundation)

Coil Springs
These are what most modern Jeeps use. They provide flexibility, absorb impact, and help maintain your Jeep’s ride height.

Leaf Springs
Found on older Jeep models, these are strong and durable but tend to give a stiffer ride.

👉 Think of springs as what holds your Jeep up and absorbs the big hits.


2. Shock Absorbers (Control & Comfort)

Shock absorbers control the movement of your springs. Without them, your Jeep would just keep bouncing after every bump.

They help:

  • Maintain traction
  • Improve stability
  • Smooth out your ride

👉 If your Jeep feels “bouncy” or unstable, your shocks are usually the first place to look.


3. Control Arms (Keep Everything Aligned)

Control arms connect your axle to the frame of your Jeep.

They:

  • Keep your wheels properly positioned
  • Allow controlled movement
  • Help with articulation when off-roading

👉 These play a huge role in how your Jeep tracks down the road and flexes on the trail.


4. Sway Bars (On-Road Stability)

Sway bars help reduce body roll when turning, especially at higher speeds.

  • Connected: Better handling on pavement
  • Disconnected: More axle articulation off-road

👉 This is why many Jeep owners disconnect sway bars on the trail but always reconnect for driving home.


5. Track Bars (Keep Your Jeep Centered)

Track bars keep your axle centered under your Jeep.

This is especially important if you:

  • Add a lift
  • Change suspension geometry
  • Notice your Jeep pulling or feeling “off-center”

Lifted Jeep Wrangler climbing over rocks with visible suspension flex and off-road tires on rugged trail
When your suspension is working the way it should,
your Jeep can handle obstacles
like this with confidence and control.

Why Suspension Matters for Off-Roading

Your suspension system is what allows your Jeep to actually handle the trail not just look good doing it.

A properly functioning (or upgraded) suspension helps:

  • Improve traction on uneven terrain
  • Increase articulation (how much your wheels can move independently)
  • Maintain control over rocks, ruts, and obstacles
  • Reduce stress on your vehicle

Whether it’s a daily driver or a trail Jeep, suspension is what keeps everything working together.


What to Expect When You Start Upgrading Your Suspension

One thing I didn’t fully understand at first and something I learned after lifting my Jeep, is that when you start upgrading your suspension, it doesn’t just affect one part of your Jeep.

Everything is connected.

Changing your suspension geometry can impact:

  • Steering and handling
  • Driveline angles
  • Tire wear and alignment
  • Ride quality (sometimes in ways you don’t expect)

When I lifted my Jeep, I quickly realized it’s not just about adding height it’s about how all the components work together.

A suspension upgrade often means other parts may need to be adjusted, upgraded, or replaced to keep everything running smoothly.

It’s not a bad thing, it’s just part of building your Jeep the right way.

👉 If you’re thinking about lifting your Jeep, here’s a breakdown of what to expect when you lift your Jeep.


Basic Jeep Suspension Maintenance Tips

This is where a lot of bigger problems can be avoided.

Regular Inspections
Check shocks, springs, bushings, and joints for wear, leaks, or damage.

Grease Fittings
Keep components properly lubricated to prevent premature wear.

Alignment Checks
Any time you modify suspension or after a hard off-road trip check your alignment to avoid uneven tire wear.

👉 If you’re not sure what to check regularly, this is a great place to link to your Jeep Maintenance guide.

Jeep Wrangler navigating rocky off-road trail with spotter guiding driver through obstacles in wooded terrain
Having a spotter on the trail makes all the
difference when navigating rocks and uneven terrain. 


FAQs About Jeep Suspension

How do I know when my shocks need replacing?
Look for excessive bouncing, fluid leaks, or uneven tire wear. If your ride feels rough or unstable, it’s time to inspect them.

What are signs my suspension needs attention?
Clunking noises, poor handling, uneven stance, or steering issues are all signs something isn’t right.

Can I drive with sway bars disconnected?
Only off-road. Disconnecting improves articulation, but reconnect them before driving on pavement for safety.

Do I need a suspension lift to go off-road?
No—but it helps. A lift improves ground clearance, articulation, and approach/departure angles, making tougher trails more manageable.

How often should I check my suspension?
Do a quick visual check monthly and a more detailed inspection every 6–12 months—or after heavy trail use.


Final Thoughts

Understanding your Jeep’s suspension isn’t just for experienced builders it’s for anyone who wants to feel more confident behind the wheel.

Working around Jeeps at TNT Customs has shown me that the difference between a Jeep that struggles on the trail and one that handles it with confidence often comes down to suspension.

And the more you understand it, the better decisions you’ll make whether that’s maintenance, upgrades, or how you drive.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the build…

It’s about how your Jeep performs when it matters most.



Written by Tammy "Jeep Momma" Forsyth  - a Jeep Wrangler owner, off-road enthusiast, and content creator who has explored trails across Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, and beyond. Through Jeep Momma, she shares firsthand Wrangler ownership experiences, trail guides, DIY modifications, camping setups, and Jeep community stories to help new and experienced Jeep owners get more from their adventures.

👉About Jeep Momma



Tuesday, May 12, 2026

My New Jeep Color:

 Why I Chose Reign Purple (And Why It Turns Heads)

Quick Answer:
Jeep’s Reign is a bold, deep purple paint color often described as an eggplant or amethyst tone designed to stand out. It’s a limited-edition factory color returning for 2026 on both the Wrangler and Gladiator.

Woman smiling in sunglasses next to Jeep Wrangler in Reign purple paint
Not just a color it’s a whole vibe.


When I first saw Jeep’s Reign purple, I knew it wasn’t a color you just blend in with.

It’s bold. It’s deep. And depending on the light, it shifts between rich purple, almost black, and a vibrant amethyst tone that completely transforms the look of the Jeep.

After owning Jeeps and being around the community for years, I’ve learned one thing your Jeep isn’t just a vehicle. It’s an extension of you.

And for me, Reign just felt right. Plus at the time it was my only option, I like to call it fate. Check out the story behind My New Purple Jeep.  


What Makes Jeep’s Reign Purple So Unique?

Reign isn’t your typical factory paint color.

It’s a deep, rich purple often compared to eggplant with a finish that can look subtle in low light and incredibly bold in the sun.

On the 2026 models, Reign returns as a limited-edition color, available on:

  • Jeep Wrangler (all trims)
  • Jeep Gladiator (for the first time)

It pairs especially well with:

  • Black hardtops
  • Black fender flares
  • Dark accents and off-road builds

But it can also be ordered with body-color options if you want a more seamless look.

👉 Either way, it’s a color that was made to stand out on the road and on the trail.

Jeep Wrangler front grille in Reign purple paint with black inserts and spring blossoms in background
Classic Jeep grille just with a bold twist.


A Look Back: The History of Reign

Reign isn’t brand new,  t’s one of those colors that Jeep brings back because people love it.

  • 2018: First debut
  • 2023: Limited return
  • 2026: Back again stronger than ever, now including the Gladiator

That alone says a lot.

Jeep doesn’t bring colors back unless they make an impact.

Close-up of Jeep Reign purple metallic paint showing sparkle and color depth in sunlight
This is where Reign really stands out,
the depth, the sparkle, and how it
shifts depending on the light.


Why Jeep Uses Bold, Unique Colors

One thing I’ve always loved about Jeep is that they don’t play it safe with color.

While most vehicles stick to neutral tones, Jeep leans into personality.

Over the years, they’ve released standout colors like:

  • Bright greens
  • Bold oranges
  • Electric blues
  • And now deep purples like Reign

Why?

Because Jeep owners aren’t just buying transportation they’re building something personal.

These colors feel more like factory-custom options than standard paint choices.

And that’s what makes Jeep different.


What Reign Looks Like on the Trail

This is where the color really comes to life.

In the woods, on rocks, or out in the sun, Reign changes depending on the environment.

  • In shade → deep, almost black purple
  • In sunlight → vibrant and eye-catching
  • On the trail → contrasts beautifully with dirt, rock, and nature

It’s one of those colors that looks good clean but somehow looks even better a little dirty.


Is Reign Worth It?

If you’re someone who prefers subtle, low-key vehicles… this probably isn’t your color.

But if you want:

  • A Jeep that stands out
  • Something that feels unique from the factory
  • A color that reflects personality
  • Or  die-hard Minnesota Vikings Fan

Reign is absolutely worth it.

It’s not just a paint option it’s part of the identity of your Jeep.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon hood decal on Reign purple paint
Reign in the details. Even up close! 


Final Thoughts

Choosing a Jeep color might seem like a small decision but it’s one of the first things people notice.

For me, Reign wasn’t just about liking purple and thank goodness I did because it was my only option.

It was about choosing something bold, something different, and something that felt like my Jeep.

And that’s really what Jeep has always been about.



Written by Tammy "Jeep Momma" Forsyth  - a Jeep Wrangler owner, off-road enthusiast, and content creator who has explored trails across Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, and beyond. Through Jeep Momma, she shares firsthand Wrangler ownership experiences, trail guides, DIY modifications, camping setups, and Jeep community stories to help new and experienced Jeep owners get more from their adventures.

👉About Jeep Momma




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