Can you drive a Jeep Wrangler with the tailgate open? Yes, but only under specific circumstances and with extreme caution. Driving with the rear gate open can be dangerous and is often illegal if it obstructs traffic or creates a hazard. This guide will walk you through the safest methods and considerations for Jeep Wrangler tailgate driving and driving with open tailgate scenarios. We’ll cover why you might consider this, the risks involved, and the best practices to ensure you and others on the road stay safe.
Image Source: www.simivalleychryslerdodgejeepram.com
Why Would You Drive a Jeep Wrangler With Tailgate Open?
There are a few common reasons why a Jeep owner might find themselves needing to drive with the tailgate open or partially open. Often, it’s related to carrying oversized or awkward items that simply won’t fit inside the vehicle, even with the seats folded down.
Hauling Long Items
- Lumber and Building Materials: When undertaking DIY projects or construction, long pieces of wood, pipes, or metal rods can extend beyond the typical cargo space.
- Sporting Equipment: Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, or long ski equipment might require the tailgate to be open for proper support or to allow the item to rest on a rack system while extending past the rear.
- Furniture: Large furniture items, like a sofa or a desk, might be too long to fit entirely within the cargo area.
Temporary Cargo Security
In some situations, a temporary arrangement might necessitate leaving the tailgate open. For instance, if you’ve just loaded a large item and are moving it a very short distance to a secure loading area, you might temporarily drive with the tailgate open. However, this is generally ill-advised for any significant distance.
Accessing Cargo Storage
Occasionally, owners might need to access specific items stored in a way that requires the tailgate to be open. This is usually for very short, low-speed maneuvers within private property.
The Dangers of Driving with the Rear Gate Open
Driving with a Jeep Wrangler tailgate open is inherently risky. It’s crucial to understand these dangers before even considering it.
Reduced Visibility
- Blind Spots: The open tailgate can significantly obstruct your rearward vision, creating large blind spots. This makes it harder to see vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists behind you.
- Obstruction of Mirrors: Depending on the tailgate’s position and the cargo, your side mirrors and rearview mirror might be partially or completely blocked.
Cargo Ejection Risk
- Unsecured Items: If the items you are carrying are not properly secured, they can shift, slide, or even fall out of the vehicle when you brake, accelerate, or turn.
- Wind Resistance: As you drive, the open tailgate creates significant wind resistance. This can buffet unsecured items, increasing the chance of them being dislodged.
Aerodynamic Instability and Fuel Economy
- Drag: An open tailgate acts like a parachute, creating substantial drag. This makes your Jeep work harder, leading to poorer fuel economy and potentially affecting handling.
- Buffeting: The wind rushing into the open cargo area can create buffeting noises and vibrations inside the cabin, making for an uncomfortable ride.
Legal Ramifications and Tickets
- Obstructing Traffic: In many jurisdictions, driving with a rear gate open that obstructs traffic or creates a hazard is illegal and can result in a ticket.
- Unsecured Load: Laws regarding unsecured loads are strict. If any part of your cargo falls onto the road, you can face severe penalties.
Damage to the Tailgate and Vehicle
- Stress on Hinges: Constantly driving with the tailgate open puts undue stress on the hinges and latches, potentially leading to wear and tear or damage over time.
- Scratches and Dents: The open tailgate can easily come into contact with objects or the ground, especially when maneuvering, leading to cosmetic damage.
Safely Driving a Jeep with Tailgate Open: When and How
While generally discouraged, there are specific situations and techniques to consider if you must drive with your Jeep Wrangler tailgate open. The key is safely drive Jeep with tailgate in mind, prioritizing safety and legality above all else.
Important Considerations Before You Start
- Is it Legal? First and foremost, check your local laws and regulations regarding driving with an open tailgate or carrying unsecured loads. Ignorance is not a defense.
- Short Distances Only: This method should only be used for very short distances, such as moving from a driveway to a garage or a parking spot to a loading zone, and at very low speeds.
- Private Property: The safest way to do this is entirely on private property where you have full control and no other vehicles or pedestrians are present.
- Check Your Load: Ensure everything is tied down securely. Even for a short distance, a shifting load is a hazard.
How to Secure the Tailgate Open
This is critical. You cannot simply leave the tailgate unlatched.
For Jeep JK Tailgate Up (2007-2018 models)
The Jeep JK tailgate up configuration is similar to other Wranglers.
- Bungee Cords and Straps: Heavy-duty bungee cords or ratchet straps can be used to hold the tailgate in the desired open position. Loop them around the tailgate and secure them to the body or frame. Ensure they are taut.
- Tailgate Chains: Many Wranglers have chains that limit how far the tailgate can open. You might be able to use these to hold it at a specific angle.
- Aftermarket Tailgate Supports: Some Jeep Wrangler accessory tailgate options or Jeep Wrangler modifications tailgate include specialized support struts or locking mechanisms designed to hold the tailgate open at various angles more securely than standard chains.
For Jeep JL Tailgate Open (2018-Present models)
The Jeep JL tailgate open procedure is similar, but always refer to your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
- Secure Strapping: Use strong straps to lash the tailgate to the vehicle’s frame or a secure anchor point.
- Prevent Slamming: Ensure the straps are tight enough to prevent the tailgate from slamming shut or bouncing excessively.
- Consider Tailgate Limiters: Aftermarket options might offer more robust ways to manage tailgate opening angles.
Securing the Load Itself
Regardless of how you secure the tailgate, the cargo inside is paramount.
- Tie-Down Straps: Use strong, quality tie-down straps (ratchet straps are often best) to secure all items.
- Cargo Nets: A robust cargo net can help contain smaller items and prevent them from shifting.
- Weight Distribution: Distribute the weight evenly to avoid unbalanced handling. Place heavier items lower down.
- Prevent Movement: Wedge items with blankets or other padding to stop them from sliding forward or backward.
Driving Techniques
- Slow and Steady: Drive at very low speeds, well below the posted speed limits.
- Gentle Acceleration and Braking: Avoid sudden movements. Smooth inputs are crucial.
- Wide Turns: Take corners slowly and widely to minimize the risk of cargo shifting or the tailgate swinging unexpectedly.
- Awareness: Constantly check your mirrors and be hyper-aware of your surroundings. Listen for any unusual noises.
When Not to Drive with the Tailgate Open
There are many situations where driving with the tailgate open is simply not an option and should be avoided at all costs.
- On Public Roads for Extended Distances: This is the most significant “do not.” Unless you are moving an item mere feet into a loading zone, it’s generally not permissible or safe.
- In Inclement Weather: Rain, snow, or high winds exacerbate the risks. Rain can make the road slippery and reduce visibility, while wind can buffet the open tailgate and cargo violently.
- With Unsecured Cargo: If you cannot secure your items firmly, do not drive with the tailgate open.
- If Visibility is Compromised: If the open tailgate blocks your mirrors or significantly reduces your view, do not proceed.
- If Your Vehicle is Not Equipped for It: Some Jeep Wrangler modifications tailgate or accessories might offer specific solutions, but if your Jeep is stock and you’re just propping it open with a bungee, it’s probably not a good idea for anything beyond a very controlled, short maneuver.
- If You Are Unsure: If you have any doubt about the safety or legality, err on the side of caution and find another solution.
Alternative Solutions for Transporting Large Items
Before resorting to driving with the tailgate open, consider these safer and more practical alternatives:
Roof Racks and Cargo Carriers
- Purpose-Built Systems: Invest in a quality roof rack system specifically designed for the Jeep Wrangler. This is the most common and recommended method for carrying long or bulky items.
- Crossbars and Rails: These provide a stable platform for attaching various carriers.
- Cargo Baskets and Boxes: These can hold smaller, loose items securely on the roof.
Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carriers
- Expand Your Space: A hitch-mounted carrier extends your cargo capacity outwards from the rear of the vehicle.
- Weight Limits: Be mindful of your Jeep’s hitch weight limit and the carrier’s capacity.
- Visibility Considerations: While these carry items behind the vehicle, ensure they don’t obstruct your taillights or license plate.
Trailer Hitch and Towing
- For Very Large Items: If the item is too large for the roof or a hitch carrier, consider renting or borrowing a small trailer.
- Towing Capacity: Ensure your Jeep is rated for towing the weight of the trailer and its contents.
Reconfiguring Interior Space
- Folding Seats: The Jeep Wrangler’s rear seats fold down to create more cargo space.
- Removing Seats: For even more room, consider removing the rear seats entirely (if practical for your situation).
- Strategic Packing: Sometimes, rearranging items can allow them to fit within the closed tailgate.
Using Other Vehicles
- Larger Vehicle: If the item is too large for your Jeep, consider borrowing or renting a larger truck or SUV.
- Professional Hauling: For very large or valuable items, professional moving services might be the safest option.
Aftermarket Solutions and Jeep Wrangler Tailgate Modifications
For those who frequently need to carry items that push the limits of their Jeep’s cargo space, Jeep Wrangler modifications tailgate and accessories can offer solutions.
Tailgate Reinforcement Kits
- Strengthening the Gate: Some kits reinforce the tailgate structure, making it more robust. While not directly for driving with it open, they prepare it for potential stress.
Specialized Tailgate Tables
- Convenience Feature: Many aftermarket tailgate tables fold down, offering a workspace. These are designed to be used when parked, but illustrate how the tailgate can be adapted.
Aftermarket Tailgate Mounts
- Spare Tire Mounts: While not directly related to opening the tailgate, these accessories show the versatility of the rear of the Jeep.
Custom Fabrication
- Professional Solutions: For specific needs, custom fabrication shops can design and build solutions for carrying gear, potentially including modifications that allow for more controlled tailgate opening or integration with external racks.
Crucially, ensure any tailgate modifications do not compromise the structural integrity or safety of your vehicle. Always prioritize functionality that aligns with safe driving practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is it illegal to drive with my Jeep Wrangler tailgate open?
A: It can be illegal, depending on your location and the specific circumstances. Driving with a rear gate open that creates a hazard, obstructs traffic, or is not properly secured is often against the law and can result in fines. Always check local regulations.
Q: How do I prevent my tailgate from falling shut if I’m driving with it open?
A: You must secure the tailgate in the open position. Use heavy-duty bungee cords, ratchet straps, or specialized tailgate support systems. Ensure they are taut and reliable.
Q: Can I drive with the tailgate open if I’m just going a short distance?
A: While short distances on private property at very low speeds might seem manageable, it’s still risky. If you must do it, extreme caution and securement are paramount. It is generally not advisable on public roads, even for short distances, unless absolutely necessary and compliant with local laws.
Q: What are the biggest risks of driving with the tailgate open?
A: The primary risks include reduced visibility, the possibility of cargo ejecting from the vehicle, legal penalties, damage to your Jeep, and potential aerodynamic instability.
Q: Are there accessories to help with driving with the tailgate open?
A: While there aren’t many accessories specifically designed for driving with the tailgate open, some Jeep Wrangler modifications tailgate can reinforce the gate or offer alternative ways to secure cargo externally, such as enhanced roof racks or hitch carriers, which are much safer alternatives.
Q: What if my cargo sticks out past the tailgate?
A: If cargo extends beyond the vehicle, it must be properly secured and, in many places, marked with a red flag or light during daylight and nighttime hours, respectively. This is a critical safety and legal requirement.
By prioritizing safety, following legal guidelines, and considering the alternatives, you can make the best decision for transporting your cargo with your Jeep Wrangler. Remember, the safest approach is almost always to keep your tailgate closed and use appropriate external carrying solutions.