Improving Jeep Wrangler Steering Comfort and Control
Driving a Jeep Wrangler can sometimes be challenging at highway speeds due to the common issues of steering jitter and harsh road feedback. In the fall of 2014, Powers & Sons, LLC (now known as Steer Smarts), approached me to test their innovative steering product—the Griffin Steering Attenuator. Here's my detailed experience and review.
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| My photo on Steer Smarts website |
Understanding The Griffin Steering Attenuator
Steer Smarts specializes in high-quality, machined steering and suspension components designed explicitly for Jeep Wranglers. Their Griffin Steering Attenuator significantly reduces steering jitter and harsh feedback from the road, providing a smoother, safer driving experience.
Key Benefits of The Griffin
Direct Replacement: Simple installation, directly replacing your Jeep’s stock drag link adjusting sleeve.
Enhanced Stability: Minimizes jitter and improves overall steering feel.
Safety Improvement: Provides greater control and stability, particularly at higher speeds.
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| The Steering Attenuator |
Selecting the Right Reviewer
Initially unsure about reviewing the product due to my limited Jeep driving experience at the time, I enlisted my friend Jeff, a seasoned Jeep driver and DIY mechanic, to test the Griffin first.
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| Jeff and myself |
Jeff’s Review Highlights
Immediate reduction in steering jerk from potholes.
Steering became tighter and noticeably more stable.
Easy DIY installation (rated 2 out of 5 wrenches), completed in about one hour.
Overall, rated it 4 out of 5, citing the product's slightly higher price but praising its significant improvement in driving comfort.
Jeff extensively tested the Griffin during a 3,000-mile road trip, noting dramatically less driving fatigue and greatly enhanced stability at highway speeds.
Jeff Quotes:
- Did another 120 miles today, almost all highway at 70 mph. Effortless steering and absolutely no lane pull from ruts or grooves. No jumping or jerking when changing lanes and bump feedback was totally minimized. Very happy.
- I am in the middle of the first long road trip since putting this on. About 1700 miles of a plan 3000 mile trip. On the first day of the trip I drove for 17 hours. Pre attenuator after 10 hours I was beat. This really does reduce the stress of driving.
My Personal Installation and Review
Encouraged by Jeff's positive experience and extensive forum feedback, I decided to have The Griffin professionally installed at Adam’s Jeep of Maryland, where I originally purchased my Jeep.
Check out my YouTube Video Review 👉 Jeep Momma's first Griffin Review
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| The Steering Attenuator |
My Installation Experience
Installation was quick and professionally done by Adam’s Jeep.
Immediately noticed improvements upon leaving the dealership.
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| Installing the Steering Attenuator |
Driving Impressions
Before installing The Griffin, highway driving was tense—I always needed both hands firmly gripping the wheel. After installation, the change was remarkable. The steering wheel felt tighter and more responsive. Although I could still feel the characteristic Jeep bumps and contours of the road, the steering control was greatly improved.
Notably, during a trip down a busy interstate, I comfortably cruised above 75 mph with one hand on the wheel, easily changing lanes without anxiety—a massive improvement from my previous white-knuckle driving.
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Off-Road Performance
Importantly, off-road capabilities remained unaffected. The Griffin improved on-road comfort without compromising Jeep’s rugged off-road performance.
Why I Recommend The Griffin
Improved Highway Safety: Greater steering control at higher speeds.
Reduced Driver Fatigue: Significant stress reduction during long drives.
Preserves Jeep Performance: Maintains Jeep’s off-road capabilities.
Improved Highway Safety: Greater steering control at higher speeds.
Reduced Driver Fatigue: Significant stress reduction during long drives.
Preserves Jeep Performance: Maintains Jeep’s off-road capabilities.
In summary, The Griffin Steering Attenuator from Steer Smarts is highly recommended for Jeep Wrangler owners who desire safer, smoother, and more enjoyable highway driving experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is The Griffin Steering Attenuator difficult to install?
A: Installation is straightforward and typically takes about an hour using basic hand tools.
Q: Does The Griffin affect off-road performance negatively?
A: No, it's specifically engineered to enhance on-road stability without affecting your Jeep’s off-road capabilities.
Q: Is it worth investing in The Griffin Steering Attenuator?
A: Yes, the benefits in safety, comfort, and reduced driving fatigue justify the investment despite its higher cost.
For additional Jeep reviews and modification insights, visit my Jeep Momma's Reviews page.
This review is based solely on genuine personal experience. While Steer Smarts provided the product for testing, all opinions expressed here are entirely my own, formed through extensive use and real-world conditions.
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