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Jeep Wranglers are great for both off-road handling and asphalt surfaces. This type of vehicle has a tough solid-axle suspension, big all-terrain tires, and a robust four-wheel-drive system, making it the ideal mode of transportation.
The engine noise and other parts tend to be too loud, especially when traveling on a long road trip. Even though it is incredible to hear the engine roar and it leaves an impression that you have a powerful machine, sometimes you just need some peace and quiet.
Trying to talk to your passengers can become irritating when you need to repeat yourself all the time. On top of this, your music will often be drowned out by the roar of the engine. Or, maybe your toddler who gets scared with loud noises always cries in the car, making travel hard.
Well, no matter why you need to reduce the noise of your Jeep Wrangler, the perfect solution to fix this problem is soundproofing.
Are Jeep Wranglers Quiet?
Older Jeep Wranglers are inclined to be on the noisy side and very obnoxious, to say the least. The whizzing noise from the engine and the screeching of other components on the road tend to be too appalling. Travel on long road trips needs to be filled with pleasant music and quiet surroundings.
Many Jeep Wrangler owners have resorted to soundproofing them to make things quieter. Newer models are built with modern technology to help make them less noisy. The engine and other parts are upgraded to reduce noise production while off-road and on blacktop surfaces, making it a more enjoyable drive.
Is the Jeep Soft Top Quieter Than a Hardtop?
Jeep Wranglers have both hardtop and soft top options. Also, you can go without a top altogether, especially when you are traveling in warmer climates. All three of these options are great to have, mainly if you live where the seasons change.
However, both tops shield noise differently, and the hardtop is the only one that is suitable for guarding against road-noise, hot sun, and chilly winters. Despite this, a hardtop is a lot quieter than soft tops. Hardtops also can haul extra luggage when traveling long distance by just installing a roof rack for tying it down.
Why Soundproofing a Jeep Wrangler is Essential
Researchers have learned that soundproofing a vehicle will tend to raise its value more so than one that is not. Besides that, you will have a better experience while driving a soundproof Jeep Wrangler, and so will your passengers. The key motivation to why Jeep owners soundproof is to get relief from the engine and road noise.
Soundproofing improves the car cabin acoustics and bass sound. You will not only be able to say goodbye to engine noise but be able to hear your favorite music without having to blast it. Soundproofing gives you the perfect combination of enjoyment and comfort.
A Guide on Effective Methods of Jeep Wrangler Noise Reduction
The suggestions below will help soundproof your Jeep Wrangler to get rid of annoying noise. These methods may not all block out 100 percent of the noise but will definitely dampen the sound significantly.
Soundproof the Vehicle’s Base
Most of the noise will come from the base of your Jeep Wrangler, and by insulating the floorboard, you will drastically cut down on noise. You will want to be sure to soundproof both the car cabin and trunk floor. Selections of useful mats help to deaden the racket.
For instance, some carpeting options include the Fatmat Sound Deadener, the Dynamat, and the Noico Sound Deadening Mats. While it is simple to just install a dense, thick material that will absorb sounds, it is highly recommended to use FatMat self-adhesive along with carpet for better noise reduction.
Click here to check on the most current price. Fatmat will not only reduce the noise but will definitely insulate your vehicle for the winter. It is easy to install; just remove the vehicle’s current mats, measure the area, cut it to size, place the mat down with adhesive, and let dry.
Since it is made out of rubberized asphalt, it will have an odor. Next, either put the original mats on top. After everything is installed, you should notice a considerable drop in noise. To make the Wrangler even more soundproofed, you could install reflective insulation foam before you begin adding the Fatmat.
Another popular option would be Dynamat, which is one of the best deadening materials on the market. It reduces road noise by 50 percent and improves the sound quality of your music.
The material is durable and coated with aluminum boots. It cost more than other soundproofing material; this is due to its effectiveness. Dynamat decreases a good bit of road noise compared to other brands.
Noico is another alternative to soundproof your Jeep Wrangler. It has adhesive layers, which makes it stand out from the cheaper offers. This versatile insulation material has excellent thermal barrier properties. Noico is one of the best ways to make your car cool and quieter.
Deaden Your Headliner for Sound
Travel on major highways is often associated with a lot of wind noise, and it would be beneficial to deaden your hardtop. Many Jeep owners have had this same issue and have been recommended to install a Jeep headliner mat.
Boom mats that are 1-inch thick can deaden and reduce noise levels up to about four decibels. The mats are pre-shaped and straightforward to install, just peel off the backing and stick it into place. It should be placed around the hardtop and along the windows for excellent noise reduction of wind noise, heat, and cold.
Not only can these boom mats reduce noise levels but also spices up the look of your Jeep. Placing the deadening material on the hardtop will also enable you to carry on a normal conversation with your passengers and hear your tunes better.
Mount Aerodynamic Mirrors
The mirrors that generally come with a Jeep Wrangler do not always support slipstream, and this is the primary reason that you hear so much excess noise while driving. Many Jeep owners don’t realize that there is an alternative option to take care of the noise.
You can buy AutoEC Jeep Outdoor Mirrors to fix the problem. You will receive two mirrors, one for the driver’s side and another one for the passenger’s side. The streamlined mirror back and precision molding effectively reduce wind drag and whistling.
With that said, you must realize it will not take care of all the noise altogether but can be used with other soundproofing products to ensure a decrease in the noise you are looking to achieve. Air will travel through your mirrors without making the vibration sound from the wind hitting your old-style mirrors.
Install a Sailcloth Top Cover
Many Jeep owners tend to concentrate more on soundproofing the cabin floor rather than the top, especially if it’s never on. If you want to lower noise but still have the Jeep somewhat open, installing a sailcloth cover will do the trick. It can be more costly than other effective methods mentioned in this guide, but it’s well worth the price.
Bestop Sailcloth tops provide about 50 percent noise reduction than regular cloth tops. This is one of the most excellent soundproofing investments you will ever make for your Jeep Wrangler. Select one wisely as there are many different designs available to fit your Jeep Wrangler.
You may want to choose a sailcloth that enhances the look of your Jeep. With the zipless feature, you will be able to put it on and off in no time. The secret to noise-deadening effectiveness is from the thickness of the material.
Change the Weatherstrips
When your Jeep Wrangler is all sealed up, and you still feel a draft, the weatherstrips might be the problem. It would be wise to check them to see if the seal fits properly. If they are sealed but weather-worn, you may need to purchase new ones.
You will have plenty of benefits from replacing your weatherstrips.
- It will keep the rain and snow from entering your Wrangler.
- You will have excellent noise reduction and protection.
- It’s a great thermal loss reducer and wind protection.
The weatherstrips are easy to put on and are generally cut to size. On the other hand, you may want a professional to assist you in the installation process because the slightest hole will defeat what you are trying to accomplish.
Replace the Tires on Your Jeep Wrangler
Certain tires make louder noise than others when hitting the asphalt. Worn out tires or brand new tires with certain treads also have different levels of noise. You will want to be smart when choosing new tires because traction is also essential.
As a result, you may want to get less aggressive tires to decrease the noise hitting the pavement. Therefore, you should consider tires with great patterns, high-quality materials, and right size for your Jeep Wrangler. If your tires are worn, then you will be able to take care of both issues at the same time.
Soundproof the Jeep Wrangler Engine
The engine produces a lot of noise. Soundproofing a Jeep Wrangler engine can be overwhelming for some, but it will help with noise reduction. When insulating the engine, you will want to be sure that the material is able to withstand extreme temperatures.
Many Jeep Wrangler owners use the same material that is used for the floorboards. Fatmat, Noico, and Dynamat were mentioned earlier in this guide and would be perfect for soundproofing the engine. All of them can handle extreme temperatures, making it safe for the engine compartment.
You will want to insulate the entire engine hood from the inside for the maximum reduction of noise. The soundproof mats will also help to absorb noise and vibrations. Consider using a Dynamat hood liner to ensure ultimate noise reduction.
Fix a Noisy Lifter
The lifter is a small cylinder that is part of the engine and is attached to the push rod or rocker arm where it meets the valve. Over time, it can start making a tapping or ticking noise when the engine is turned on and running. There are several rational reasons why this begins to happen, and the most common is from dirt and grime.
Another logical reason would be that the lifter is worn from use and needs to be replaced. It also could be from a bent pushrod, and if that is the case, it will definitely need replacing. Unfortunately, there is not another way to fix the problem when the pushrod is bent.
But out of all of these possible causes, dirt accumulation is what generally starts making the noise. It is simple to resolve by using oil additives. If you believe dirt and grime is the culprit to your noisy lifter, you can get the low down on how to fix it.
Fix the Steering Wheel
Jeep Wranglers tend to have strange popping, creaking, and knocking noises that can become irritating and embarrassing. Some of the leading steering wheel noise causes can come from worn-out shocks, damaged suspension bushings, and worn-out tires.
It also can come from damaged suspension bushings, dry jounce bushings, and damaged tie rod ends. You should check to be sure which one of these things mentioned are the potential cause of the noise and fix it.
Sometimes it may take a professional to figure out where the noise is coming from, but it usually doesn’t take them long. With the right know-how, you should be able to do it all yourself as long as you have the equipment to do so.
Try Using Earplugs While You’re Driving Your Jeep Wrangler
If the noise of your Jeep Wrangler still bothers you after soundproofing it, try wearing earplugs. This is the quickest way to drown out noise; you only have to place the earplugs in your ears when noise is too much for you.
Earplugs can definitely drown out irritating noise, but it also can prevent you from hearing your favorite tunes as well. What’s more, researchers have learned that earplugs can disengage the driver with the environment, and this could result in an accident.
Although earplugs will work, it is not highly recommended, but if you should choose to do so, be careful out on the road.
Final Thoughts
The Jeep Wrangler is a far more reliable form of transportation than most vehicles, even with the noise. Soundproofing is the best possible solution for reducing the sounds coming from your Jeep Wrangler. Some may be more expensive than others but all are well worth the cost.
The noise reduction guide above should make traveling in your Jeep more pleasurable with fewer distractions. After trying these methods, you should at least be able to reduce the noise by 50 percent or fully. Has one method not worked to your satisfaction? Try combining it with another to help really quiet your jeep down as you drive.