Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Rack Steel or Aluminium: Which is better?

Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Rack Steel or Aluminium: Which is better?

 ·  April 20, 2023

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular vehicle for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Roof racks are a valuable accessory that enhances your Jeep's functionality and versatility. 

Roof racks are vehicle accessories installed on a car, truck, SUV, or similar vehicle roof. When installed, the racks provide additional storage space on the roof. 

It enables Jeep owners to transport items such as luggage, sports equipment, bicycles, kayaks, canoes, skis, and other bulky or oversized items that may not fit inside the vehicle's interior.

Roof racks are crossbars that get attached to the vehicle's roof. The crossbars provide a base for attaching cargo carriers. You do this by either mounting directly to the roof rails or using specialised brackets or clips.

Roof racks get made from durable materials such as steel, aluminium, or composite. They get designed to withstand outdoor use and exposure to the elements.

The racks are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, travellers, and those who need to transport large or bulky items. You can enhance the storage capacity of a vehicle and allow for more comfortable interior space for passengers. 

Why Do Jeeps Need Roof Racks? 


Installing roof racks on Jeeps has numerous benefits. The many benefits include: 

Additional Cargo Capacity: Jeeps, especially those with limited trunk space, will benefit from a roof rack. Racks provide additional storage capacity for outdoor gear, such as camping equipment, bikes, kayaks, skis, snowboards, surfboards, and other large or bulky items. 

Roof racks allow you to transport gear securely on the roof of your Jeep. It helps in freeing up interior space for passengers and other essentials.

Off-Roading Capability: If you are an off-road enthusiast, you know the importance of extra cargo capacity. Roof racks can conveniently carry additional gear and equipment needed for off-roading, including recovery gear, jerry cans for water or extra fuel, spare tires, and other off-road accessories.

Convenience and Flexibility: Roof racks offer flexibility in cargo management. You can transport items that don't fit inside your Jeep. Roof racks are also helpful for long road trips or camping adventures, where you can carry a significant amount of gear and supplies.

Customization and Personalization: Roof racks are available in different designs, sizes, and configurations. It lets you customise and personalise your Jeep according to your needs and preferences. 

You can choose different roof racks, such as cargo baskets, boxes, or crossbars, to suit your specific requirements and aesthetic preferences.

Outdoor Activities: If you enjoy outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, biking, skiing, or other adventures, a roof rack is the most convenient way to transport gear and equipment to your destination. Roof racks help secure and carry outdoor gear, making them easily accessible.

Utility and Versatility: Roof racks add utility and versatility to your Grand Cherokee. The racks expand the capabilities of the Jeep beyond everyday driving. 

With a roof rack, you can transform your Jeep into a more capable and functional off-road vehicle, allowing you to carry a wide range of cargo for various activities and purposes.

The choice between a steel or aluminium roof rack for a Jeep Grand Cherokee depends on several factors, including your specific needs and preferences. 

Strength and Durability: Steel roof racks are known for their strength and durability. They can handle heavy loads, making them suitable for carrying large items such as kayaks, canoes, or heavy camping gear. Steel roof racks are also more resistant to dents and dings. 

On the other hand, aluminium roof racks are lighter. Even though they aren't as strong as steel, they are still durable and capable of carrying moderate or heavy loads.

Weight: Aluminum roof racks are lighter than steel roof racks. An aluminium roof rack is a better option to keep your Jeep Grand Cherokee lightweight. It helps them offer improved fuel efficiency. It also reduces strain on the vehicle's suspension system.

Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant. It makes the aluminium roof racks suitable for coastal areas or regions with high humidity, such as Australia. Steel rust over time, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Aesthetics: Aluminum roof racks sport a sleek and modern appearance compared to steel roof racks, which are bulky and have a more traditional look. The aesthetic look depends on your style and what you want to achieve for your Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Cost: Steel roof racks are less expensive than aluminium ones, which can be a significant factor for budget-conscious buyers. The price of a roof rack may also vary depending on the brand, size, and features.

Ease of Installation: Steel and aluminium roof racks can easily get installed on a Jeep Grand Cherokee, but the installation process may vary depending on the specific brand and model. 

Some roof racks may require drilling into the roof of your vehicle, while others may use existing mounting points. Always choose a roof rack that aligns with your preferences.

Benefits of Choosing an Aluminium Roof Rack for the Jeep Grand Cherokee


Lightweight: Aluminum is lighter than steel and adds less weight to your vehicle. It helps improve fuel efficiency, reduces strain on your vehicle's suspension system, and improves handling.

Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum is corrosion-resistant. It helps prevent rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of your roof rack and keeping it looking good.

Ease of Maintenance: Aluminum roof racks are low-maintenance. You don't require painting or coating to prevent rust. You can clean it with water and mild soap. It helps save time and effort in terms of maintenance compared to steel roof racks, which may require more upkeep to prevent rust.

Sleek Appearance: Aluminum roof racks have an elegant, modern appearance due to their lighter weight and streamlined design. It enhances the overall look of your Jeep Grand Cherokee, giving it a more contemporary and stylish appearance.

Versatility: Aluminum roof racks are available in various designs, sizes, and configurations, offering versatility in customisation and functionality. These racks also come with modular systems that allow for easy attachment of accessories (crossbars, cargo baskets, or awnings) to enhance their versatility further.

Ease of Installation: Aluminum roof racks get designed for easy installation, with many models utilising existing mounting points on your vehicle's roof or simple clamp-on systems. It makes the installation process relatively straightforward and hassle-free.

Eco-Friendly: Aluminum is a recyclable material. Choosing an aluminium roof rack can be more environmentally friendly than steel, which requires more energy and resources to produce and recycle.

Just Jeeps has different types of roof racks and other auto parts for your Jeep Grand Cherokee on the user-friendly website. The racks we sell get tested for durability, giving you peace of mind when investing in them. Visit our website and order any auto parts and accessories you want for your car, SUV or Jeep. 

We are committed to providing our buyers in Australia with the highest quality auto parts at affordable prices. Just Jeeps has earned its reputation as a leading aftermarket provider of auto parts and accessories for the Jeep Grand Cherokee and other top models of Jeep. 

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