Do Jeep Wrangler Flip Over Easily? [What You Need to Know]
Jeeps are relatively safe vehicles, and if you know how to drive them, you shouldn’t encounter any problems. However, there is a long-standing rumor that Jeep Wranglers flip over easily. Even though it is not entirely accurate, there is some truth to it.
There are several factors to take into account when discussing a Jeep’s likelihood to flip over.
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Do Jeep Wranglers Flip Over Easily?
Let’s put it this way; if you compare a Jeep Wrangler to a smaller, compact vehicle, then the answer is yes — a Jeep Wrangler is more likely to tip over. However, this is true when comparing any SUV to a smaller vehicle.
Most compact (or standard) cars are really low, with a low center of gravity and long wheelbase. This makes them very stable, even when hitting a curb or a pothole. This makes it highlight unlikely for them to flip over easily.
However, SUVs and trucks tend to be very high. For example, a standard Jeep Wrangler is over 73 inches tall. The distance between its front and rear wheels (known as wheelbase) is short. Now, putting together the height and the short wheelbase, the center of gravity stands high and is more challenging to manage in comparison.
Does this mean that you will eventually flip over? No, it doesn’t mean that. But it definitely has a higher chance of doing so if you hit a pothole or a curb at high speeds. And this applies to any SUV or truck, not only the Jeep Wrangler.
The Historical Rollover Myth
Jeep Wrangler’s reputation of tipping over easily is perhaps routed in history.
After World War 2 ended, Jeeps were introduced to the general public. Up until this point, most drivers only experienced a low center of gravity car.
New Jeep drivers would handle them like their usual cars, and the lack of experience of driving a taller vehicle led to a higher rate of accidents and rollovers.
Over the years, these accidents have reduced considerably. However, the myth has remained.
Preventing Rollovers
Yes, the Jeep Wrangler (like any other SUV) is more prone to rolling over because of its high center of gravity. However, the way you drive will have a lot to do with your safety and accident prevention.
You can’t drive an SUV the same way you would a smaller car. So if it’s your first SUV or truck, get acquainted with its gravity, how it turns, and all its features before hitting the road.
Remember that sudden speed changes (either accelerating or braking) can lead to an accident if you don’t know how to control the car.
Here are some additional tips to prevent rollovers.
Don’t overload the vehicle: All cars have a limit on how much they can handle. If you overload the Jeep, it will be much harder to control, and it can be dangerous, not only to you but also to other cars on the road.
Tire pressure. It’s important to maintain the proper tire pressure. If you’re driving through rough terrain, it’s a good idea to keep an air compressor on hand to inflate or deflate your tires when necessary. This will help you get better traction and grip on the road.
Rebalance tires after lifting your Jeep: We all love altering our Jeeps, customizing them to our liking. Lifting a Jeep has lots of benefits (plus a major cool factor). However, lifting a Jeep will make the center of gravity even higher. Remember to rebalance your tires if you decide to lift your Jeep.
Conclusion
Just like every other SUV, the Jeep Wrangler is more prone to flip over because of its high center of gravity.
However, by driving safely and knowing how to handle it, you will prevent accidents. Just be conscious of the road and have everything you need at hand if it happens.
