The FJ Cruiser. It’s a beast, right? A retro-styled off-roader that just begs to be customized. I remember when they first came out; I thought they looked like something out of a cartoon. Now, years later, I’m seriously considering getting one. The aftermarket support for these things is insane. So, whether you’re looking to boost its off-road prowess or just add some personal flair, the right accessories can make all the difference. Let’s check out some of the best FJ Cruiser accessories out there.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Tyger Auto Star Armor Kit: Rock sliders for serious off-road protection.
- ARB 2885 Old Man Emu Coil Springs: Upgrades your suspension for better handling and load capacity.
- Smittybilt Overlander Tent: Turns your FJ into a comfortable camper.
- NOCO Boost Plus GB40 Jump Starter: Portable jump starter for emergencies.
- Garmin Overlander GPS: Rugged GPS navigator for off-grid adventures.
Top 5 Best FJ Cruiser Accessories
Tyger Auto Star Armor Kit
These rock sliders are built to protect your FJ Cruiser’s rocker panels from rocks and other trail hazards. They’re made from heavy-duty steel and feature a durable textured black powder coat finish. Think of them as insurance for your FJ’s vulnerable bits when you’re out exploring.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides excellent protection for rocker panels.
- ✅ Durable steel construction.
- ✅ Bolt-on installation (no drilling required).
Cons:
- ❌ Can slightly reduce ground clearance.
- ❌ Adds noticeable weight to the vehicle.
- ❌ Some users report minor fitment issues.
Verdict: If you’re serious about off-roading, the Tyger Auto Star Armor Kit is a worthwhile investment to protect your FJ Cruiser from damage.
ARB 2885 Old Man Emu Coil Springs
These coil springs are designed to improve your FJ Cruiser’s ride quality and handling, especially when loaded with extra weight. They provide a modest lift and are engineered to work with the factory suspension components. A friend of mine swears by these for his overlanding setup.
Pros:
- ✅ Improves ride quality and handling.
- ✅ Provides a slight lift.
- ✅ Increases load-carrying capacity.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires professional installation for best results.
- ❌ May affect fuel economy slightly.
- ❌ Can make the ride a bit stiffer when unloaded.
Verdict: The ARB Old Man Emu coil springs are a great upgrade if you frequently carry heavy loads or want to improve your FJ Cruiser’s off-road performance.
Smittybilt Overlander Tent
Turn your FJ Cruiser into a comfortable basecamp with the Smittybilt Overlander Tent. This rooftop tent is easy to set up and provides a comfortable sleeping space for two people. Imagine waking up to stunning views from the top of your FJ – pretty cool, right?
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to set up and take down.
- ✅ Comfortable sleeping space.
- ✅ Keeps you off the ground and away from critters.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive.
- ❌ Adds weight to the roof of your vehicle.
- ❌ May affect fuel economy and handling.
Verdict: The Smittybilt Overlander Tent is a great option for those who want to enjoy comfortable camping without the hassle of setting up a traditional ground tent.
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 Jump Starter
Don’t get stranded with a dead battery! The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a compact and powerful jump starter that can easily start your FJ Cruiser in an emergency. It’s small enough to keep in your glove compartment and can also be used to charge your phone or other devices. I keep one of these in all my vehicles, just in case.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact and portable.
- ✅ Easy to use.
- ✅ Can jump start your vehicle multiple times on a single charge.
Cons:
- ❌ Needs to be recharged periodically.
- ❌ May not work on very large or completely dead batteries.
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other jump starters.
Verdict: The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a must-have for any FJ Cruiser owner, providing peace of mind and a reliable way to jump start your vehicle in an emergency.
Garmin Overlander GPS
Navigate off the beaten path with the Garmin Overlander GPS. This rugged GPS navigator is designed for off-road adventures and features preloaded topographic maps, points of interest, and the ability to track your routes. It’s like having a co-pilot who always knows the way, even when you’re miles from civilization.
Pros:
- ✅ Preloaded topographic maps.
- ✅ Tracks your routes and waypoints.
- ✅ Rugged and water-resistant design.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive.
- ❌ Some users find the interface a bit clunky.
- ❌ Requires some learning to use all the features effectively.
Verdict: The Garmin Overlander GPS is a valuable tool for serious off-road enthusiasts who want a reliable and feature-rich navigation system.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right accessories for your FJ Cruiser depends on your individual needs and how you plan to use your vehicle. Here are some things to consider:
- Off-Roading Intentions: If you plan on doing serious rock crawling, invest in heavy-duty rock sliders and skid plates. If you’re mainly sticking to dirt roads, a good set of tires and a mild suspension lift might be all you need.
- Budget: Accessories can range from relatively inexpensive to quite pricey. Set a budget and prioritize the accessories that are most important to you.
- Installation: Some accessories are easy to install yourself, while others require professional installation. Factor in the cost of installation when making your purchasing decisions.
- Read Reviews: Before buying any accessory, read online reviews from other FJ Cruiser owners to get an idea of their experiences with the product.
- Compatibility: Make sure any accessory you buy is compatible with your specific FJ Cruiser model year.
FAQs
Q: What are the best tires for off-roading in an FJ Cruiser?
A: Popular choices include BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac, and Nitto Ridge Grappler. Consider your typical terrain and driving conditions when making your selection.
Q: How much does it cost to lift an FJ Cruiser?
A: The cost can vary depending on the type of lift you choose and whether you install it yourself or have it done professionally. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3000+.
Q: Are rock sliders worth it?
A: If you plan on doing any serious off-roading, rock sliders are definitely worth the investment to protect your FJ Cruiser’s rocker panels from damage.
Q: What is the best way to improve fuel economy in an FJ Cruiser?
A: Regular maintenance, proper tire inflation, and avoiding aggressive driving habits can all help improve fuel economy. Also, consider reducing weight by removing unnecessary items from your vehicle.
Conclusion
The FJ Cruiser is a capable and versatile vehicle that can be customized to suit a wide range of needs. By choosing the right accessories, you can enhance its off-road performance, improve its comfort, and add your own personal touch. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a hardcore off-roader, there are plenty of accessories out there to help you get the most out of your FJ Cruiser.
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