Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Jeep Secrets Revealed

Hidden Gems in My Jeep Wrangler

As a Jeep Wrangler owner, discovering my vehicle’s clever hidden features has always brought extra joy to my off-roading adventures. Let me share some of my favorite hidden Jeep gems that enhance both functionality and fun!


Secret Center-Console Storage

My Jeep exploration began when I discovered hidden storage under my Rubicon’s center-console lid, perfect for pens, tire gauges, and small flashlights. It’s practical and keeps items neatly organized.

Underneath the Jeep Wrangler center console lid.
Underneath Center Console Lid


Jeep Easter Eggs

Jeep loves hiding Easter eggs—small symbols referencing Jeep history and off-roading culture. Some iconic spots:

  • Windshield corners: Tiny Willys Jeep climbing a rocky trail.

  • Fuel-door hinges: Hidden seven-slot grille logos.

  • Seat-belt stitching: Miniature Jeep silhouette.

  • Floor mats and storage compartments: Coordinates of famous trails like Moab’s Hell’s Revenge.

Discovering these Easter eggs connects Jeepers through shared appreciation for Jeep’s heritage.

Who would have thought that Jeep Easter Eggs would gain such immense popularity? About two years after my post on Jeep Easter Eggs, the trend really took off. Searching for Jeep Easter Eggs


Built-in Dog Bowl

Ever noticed your cup holder? Remove the liner, and instantly transform it into a handy dog water dish—perfect for adventures with your furry friends.


Hidden Seven Slot Grille

Jeep designers truly embrace the iconic seven-slot grille design, and they echoed this theme in the detailing. Look closely, and you'll find the seven-slot motif cleverly incorporated into the design of the top vent near the hood, a subtle nod to the Jeep's heritage.


Cowl on the hood on Jeep Momma's 2015 Jeep Wranger.
7 Slot Grille on Cowl


Door Latch Bottle Opener

Wrangler doors feature silver latches that double as bottle openers—ideal for tailgating or campfire breaks.

Using the door latch as a bottle opener on a 2015 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon..
Door latch as a bottle opener

Extendable Sun Visors

Wrangler visors conveniently slide out, blocking sun near the rearview mirror or along side windows, ensuring comfortable drives on sunny days.


Pulling out the visors to block the sun on Jeep Momma's Jeep Wrangler
Adjustable sunvisors


Floor Drain Plugs

Mud and dirt are unavoidable on Jeep trails. Thankfully, Wrangler models have removable floor drain plugs for easy cleanup after muddy adventures.


Watch More Jeep Tips

For more Jeep discoveries, Jeeps Tips and Tricks  and how-to videos, subscribe to my JeepMomma YouTube channel and join our community!


❓ Jeep Hidden Gems FAQ

Q: What exactly are Jeep Easter Eggs? A: Fun, hidden designs or symbols Jeep places in vehicles, celebrating Jeep culture and off-road adventures.

Q: Where are common places to find Jeep Easter Eggs? A: Windshield edges, fuel doors, cowl vents, glove boxes, floor mats, and even seat belts!

Q: Do all Jeeps have Easter Eggs? A: Most newer models like Wranglers, Gladiators, and Renegades have them, varying by year and trim.

Q: What’s your favorite hidden Jeep feature? A: Definitely the hidden coordinates of iconic trails—it’s like Jeep’s way of encouraging adventure.


Thursday, November 5, 2015

Evap Canister -- Relocate or Fortify?

Choosing the Right Off-Road Modifications for Your Jeep


When I first started off-roading with my Jeep Wrangler, deciding which modifications to prioritize was overwhelming. Through years of experience and many trail adventures, I've learned which upgrades truly matter—especially when tackling rocky terrain. Protecting your Jeep's undercarriage is essential to keeping your vehicle trail-ready and damage-free.

Last Updated: July 2025



Why Undercarriage Protection Matters for Your Jeep

Rocky trails put your Jeep's underside at risk. Essential components like the engine, transmission, and differentials are vulnerable without adequate protection. Investing in robust undercarriage armor can prevent costly repairs.



Skid Plates: Essential Protection for Jeep Wranglers

Skid plates are your Jeep’s first line of defense, safeguarding critical com

ponents from rocks and debris. Early in my off-road journey, I installed:

  • Engine & Transmission Skid Plate

  • Heavy-Duty Differential Covers

  • Rear Lower Control Arm Skids

Learn from my experience here: Engine Skid Plate Install 



Protecting the Evap Canister: Necessary or Not?

The evap canister (Evaporative Emission Control canister) is an essential part of your Jeep’s emissions system, but opinions vary on protecting it. I received advice on two popular options:

  • Upgrading Factory Evap Canister Skid Plate: Replace the factory skid with a tougher aftermarket version.

  • Relocating the Evap Canister: Move it above the rear axle to prevent contact with trail obstacles.

My trusted mechanic at Adams Jeep in Maryland recommended relocation, while other Jeepers suggested simply upgrading the skid plate.

However, after careful consideration—and advice from experienced off-roaders—I chose to leave mine stock.


The Jeep Wrangler Evap Canister Skid Plate
Evap Canister Skid 


The purple arrow shows where you would relocate your evap canister.
relocation place for evap canister




My Personal Experience:
A Decade Without Evap Canister Issues

After nearly ten years of wheeling—including challenging trails like the Rubicon Trail, Arizona’s rocky trails, and Pennsylvania’s Rausch Creek—I haven't experienced any issues with my evap canister in its original factory location.

My advice? Consider your specific wheeling style before making any modifications. If you're frequently tackling extreme rock crawling trails, relocation or enhanced protection might be beneficial. For moderate to advanced trails, the factory setup often suffices.

Check out my blog post What to Expect When You Lift Your Jeep



What Exactly is an Evap Canister?

The Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) canister captures and stores fuel vapors from your fuel system, preventing harmful emissions. It’s strategically placed near your fuel tank and gradually purges vapors to the engine, reducing environmental impact and ensuring compliance with emissions regulations.




Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Jeep modifications should I prioritize first?

Prioritize skid plates, including engine, transmission, and differential protection, followed by upgraded tires and recovery gear.

Do I really need to relocate my evap canister?

It depends on your off-road style. Extreme rock crawling may warrant relocation, but most moderate trail driving rarely affects a factory-placed evap canister.

What is the purpose of skid plates?

Skid plates protect vital undercarriage components, preventing costly damage when off-roading, especially on rocky terrain.

Can I install skid plates myself?

Yes, skid plates can typically be installed by anyone with basic mechanical skills and common hand tools, though professional installation is also available if preferred.

What happens if my evap canister gets damaged?

Damage can lead to issues like reduced fuel economy, emissions test failure, and a check engine light. It’s advisable to inspect it regularly.

What’s the benefit of heavy-duty differential covers?

Heavy-duty differential covers provide stronger protection against impacts from rocks and trail debris, reducing the risk of fluid leaks or damage.


By understanding the terrain you frequent and carefully selecting modifications, you’ll ensure your Jeep remains durable and reliable through every adventure.









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