Most people love catching up on recent happenings in their city and around the world while cruising in their cars. For others, listening to music on their way to work or after a stressful day serves as a tonic for their weary souls.
Whichever group you belong to, it is important that your jeep wrangler has an excellent antenna to receive and transmit clear signals over your stereo.
Without an excellent antenna, you will be struggling to understand what they are saying on the radio or listen to music.
This is what happens when you see people always trying to tune the stereos of their jeep wrangler- their antenna cannot receive clear signals.
To save you this embarrassment and waste of time, you need to get the best antenna for the jeep wrangler.
However, since there are several antennas for jeep wranglers on the market today, you may not know which is the best and may end up making the wrong choice.
Not to worry, this jeep antenna review will provide details of some of the best antennas for your jeep wrangler, as well as a guide to assist you in buying just what you need.
Contents
Best Jeep Wrangler Antenna: Editor’s Top Picks
Types of Jeep/Car Antenna
Jeep antennas are features that are commonly associated with Jeeps. Whether you’re driving off-road or in the city, a Jeep antenna helps you to customize your wheeler to give it a customized look. But, although all antennas perform the same function, there are a few differences that make them different from each other.
To give you a clue of what we’re speaking of, let’s discuss the different types of Jeep antennas that are available.
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Short Antennas:
Some people will prefer short antennas depending on the type of terrain they’re driving on. Short antennas don’t reach too high meaning they can’t get caught by branches and tall overgrown bushes.
They’re also less distracting, and in most cases, they’re unlikely to snap or scratch your car’s surface when caught by overgrown vegetation. But, despite the many benefits, short antennas have one major flaw—they don’t have great reception.
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Long Antennas:
If you’re getting a low wavelength when driving, then perhaps you might wish to consider installing a long antenna. Long antennas are needed in situations where improved radio reception is mandatory. These antennas have copper cores that provide better radio frequencies when off-roading.
Since these types of antennas are susceptible to breakage when driving in forested regions, most manufacturers prefer to use flexible and elastic materials in the construction to make the antennas bendable.
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Customized Antennas:
The last type of Jeep antennas you’ll expect to find are the customized variants. These types of antennas come in all sorts of unique shapes and styles to add style to your Jeep. But, despite their attractive looks, these types of antennas tend to focus more on looks rather than the function.
Benefits of Using a Jeep Antenna
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Offers Good Frequency Reception:
In case it’s your first time driving or owning a Jeep vehicle, then it’s tempting to wonder what are the benefits of having an antenna. Now, the first obvious benefit of a Jeep antenna is having better radio reception when driving.
You see, when off-roading, there are times when you might find yourself in the middle of nowhere. In most cases, such places have poor signal reception. So, in case you need to communicate or get radio updates, a Jeep antenna will be mandatory. Depending on your driving demands, some people go as far as replacing their stock antennas with aftermarket options to get better signals.
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For Entertainment:
Whether you’re driving around the city or deep into remote areas, a Jeep antenna is capable of picking FM and AM signals to allow you to enjoy a wide range of radio frequencies. This is mostly the case when you pick an aftermarket Jeep antenna over a stock one.
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Adds to Your Jeep’s Aesthetic:
Another benefit of a Jeep antenna is that it adds to your Jeep’s overall looks and beauty. You see, there are many ways to customize a Jeep to give it a new look. You can add lift kits, wheels, running boards, accessory racks, and stylish antennas.
By adding such upgrades, your Jeep will not only look stylish but you’ll also increase its resale value in the process.
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Keeps You Updated:
Lastly, Jeep antennas allow you to stay updated when driving on rural roads. One of these updates includes weather information. So, with such updates, you can plan your itinerary accordingly to avoid colliding with inclement weather.
How to Install Jeep Wrangler Antenna
Installing a Jeep antenna is very easy even for those people that are not familiar with the technicalities of replacing radio antennas. This process comprises four simple steps. The tools needed are simple basic tools that comprise a 10mm spanner and your hands.
- Step One: Remove the Old Antenna
So, the first step is to remove the old antenna from your Jeep to fit a new aftermarket option. So, using your 10 mm wrench or spanner, grip the antenna mount and start unscrewing it gently. Proceed slowly and gently until you take off the stock antenna.
- Step Two: Clean the Mount Hole
With the stock antenna out of the way, it’s time to clean the mounting hole to remove any rust that might have accumulated. So, to remove the rust and clean the hole, use a metal cleaning liquid and a toothbrush. Cleaning this area means that rust and corrosion will not accumulate any soon.
- Step Three: Mount the New Antenna
The final step is to mount your new aftermarket antenna. So, here, you’ll start by unboxing your new antenna and inspecting it. If you look at the bottom, you’ll notice that it looks like a screw. So, to mount it, place the bottom part of the antenna on the antenna mount then start screwing using your hand. Proceed to screw the antenna gently but firmly until it gets tight.
10 Best Jeep Wrangler Antenna Reviews:
1. AntennaX Off-Road (13-inch) Antenna for (07 thru 18)
The factory-fitted jeep wrangler antenna is ugly and does not fit the beauty of your precious car. It has a metal shaft and does not have any style. This is why you have to replace it with the stylish Antenna X.
In addition to adding style to your ride, it is also very functional. In contrast to the factory antenna, the Antenna X is made with rubber.
Furthermore, rather than have the 31-inch factory-fitted antenna hinder your vision while traveling, the Antenna X measures just 13 inches and has the same quality of reception without blocking your view.
Its innovative plug-n-play installation means that you can screw it on the existing antenna mount on your jeep within 60 seconds and get back to your driving.
You don’t need any specialized skills or tools to install the antenna because it has a direct bolt-on and there is no wiring involved.
This antenna will not affect the GPS Navigation of your jeep, On-Star, Sirius XM radio setting, and Bluetooth connectivity. With the Antenna X, your reception will either stay the same or improve; it cannot get worse.
Highlighted Features
- Measures 13 inches
- Made with rubber
- Innovative plug-n-play installation
- Stylish and beautiful
- Easy to install
2. AntennaX The Shorty (5-inch) Antenna for (07 thru 18)
If you like most other people are tired of having your antenna hitting your garage door each time you are going out or coming in, the perfect solution is now available. The 5-inch Antenna X, aptly called “The Shorty” is almost inconspicuous but functional.
It is also aesthetically pleasing, in contrast to the bulky and ugly factory antenna.
Produced from billet aluminum and coated with black, it is more stylish than the metallic factory antenna. It is understandable if you are scared the new antenna won’t fit since no two antennas are similar.
You can check this by trying to unscrew the present antenna mast off, if it twists right off, you can be sure the Antenna X The Shorty will fit perfectly. This is because it is made with vehicle-specific adapters.
Furthermore, you don’t need specialized skills or pay a specialist to install this antenna, anyone can fix it.
It is a plug-n-play antenna devoid of any bolts/screws or wiring, just screw it onto your existing antenna mount and within a minute you are ready to enjoy better reception on your jeep stereo.
Whether you install it in front of the rear of your jeep, this antenna will give your car a beautiful appearance. Its durability is also an upgrade from the factory-fitted antenna or any stock antenna.
Finally, this antenna does not affect the functionality of GPS navigation, On-Star, Sirius XM radio, or Bluetooth because these services utilize a different antenna.
Highlighted Features
- Measures 5 inches
- Made with billet aluminum and coated with black
- Innovative plug-n-play installation
- Stylish and beautiful
- Easy to install
- Suitable for the JK and JS models
3. Rydonair Antenna Compatible Jeep Wrangler JK JKU JL JLU
The Rydonair Antenna is designed to make your car more aesthetically pleasing and stylish. This is a far cry from the excessively long and unattractive factory-fitted jeep wrangler antenna.
In addition to adding style to your ride, it is also very functional, being able to pick up both FM and AM stations with unrivaled clarity when compared to other antennas of the same size.
Furthermore, rather than have the 31-inch factory-fitted antenna hinder your vision while traveling, the Rydonair Antenna measures just 13 inches and has better reception without blocking your view.
It is also very simple to install, all you need do is screw it on the existing antenna mount on your jeep within 60 seconds you can continue listening to your favorite radio stations.
You don’t need any specialized skills or tools to install the antenna because it has a direct bolt-on and there is no wiring involved.
This antenna will not affect the GPS Navigation of your jeep, On-Star, Sirius XM radio setting, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Rydonair Antenna is made with a flexible material that gives it shape memory, allowing the antenna to immediately get back into shape when it is bent.
Its exterior is covered with top-quality rubber which makes it weather resistant and durable.
Highlighted Features
- Fits through all 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler models
- Made with flexible and shaped memory material
- Weather-resistant and durable
- Easy to install
- Receives radio channels on either AM or FM bands.
4. AntennaX Off-Road (13-inch) Antenna for Jeep Patriot
The AntennaX Off-Road is designed to make your car more aesthetically pleasing and stylish. This is a far cry from the excessively long and unattractive factory-fitted jeep wrangler antenna that hits your garage door each time you are going out or coming in.
It is a plug-n-play antenna devoid of any bolts/screws or wiring, just screw it onto your existing antenna mount and within a minute you are ready to enjoy better reception on your jeep stereo.
Whether you install it in front or the rear of your jeep, this high-quality black matte finish rubber antenna will give your car a beautiful appearance. Its durability is also an upgrade from the factory-fitted antenna or any stock antenna.
Furthermore, this antenna does not affect the functionality of GPS navigation, On-Star, Sirius XM radio or Bluetooth because these services utilize a different antenna. It is understandable if you are scared the new antenna won’t fit since no two antennas are similar.
You can check this by trying to unscrew the present antenna mast off, if it twists right off, you can be sure the Antenna X The Shorty will fit perfectly. This is because it is made with vehicle-specific adapters.
Highlighted Features
- Measures 13 inches
- Has a high-quality black matte finish
- Easy to install
- Suitable for 2007 thru 2017 Jeep Patriot MK
- Reception stays the same 99.9% of the time or improves.
5. AntennaMastsRus – 13″ All-Terrain Flexible Rubber Antenna works with Jeep Wrangle
If your mast is broken, old, bent or you are just looking to get rid of the obnoxiously long and un-stylish antenna that comes with your vehicle, the AntennaMastsRus is perfect for you. Its durability and ability to transmit both AM/FM radio stations make it the best off-road antenna.
Furthermore, the AntenaMastsRuts possesses superb flexibility owing to the malleable rubber that is used to produce it. Thus, it is very useful when you are traveling on rough terrain, winding roads and you can be sure that it won’t break when your car is being washed.
It is important to understand that while there are several short rubber antennas on the market, most of them are either too flexible for comfort or not flexible enough.
This is why the AntennaMastsRus is the perfect, short rubber All-Terrain antenna that will not look like a wet noodle in the wind and will spring back to its initial shape.
In addition to the malleable rubber, the AntennaMastsRus has a high-quality internal spring-steel core which allows it to be flexible enough to move when needed and spring back to shape when your vehicle is no longer in motion.
Furthermore, this antenna does not affect the functionality of GPS navigation, On-Star, Sirius XM radio or Bluetooth because these services utilize a different antenna
Highlighted Features
- Springy Antenna
- Easy to install
- Perfect for rough terrain and curvy roads
- Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler
6. AntennaX The Shorty (6-inch) Black Antenna for (07-18)
If you like most other people are tired of having your antenna hitting your garage door each time you are going out or coming in, the perfect solution is now available. The 6-inch Antenna X is almost inconspicuous but functional.
It is also aesthetically pleasing, in contrast to the bulky and ugly factory antenna. Even though it is produced with stainless steel just like the factory antenna, it is just 6 inches tall and 1/4 inch thick.
It is understandable if you are scared the new antenna won’t fit since no two antennas are similar.
You can check this by trying to unscrew the present antenna mast off, if it twists right off, you can be sure the Antenna X will fit perfectly. This is because it is made with vehicle-specific adapters.
Furthermore, you don’t need specialized skills or pay a specialist to install this antenna, anyone can fix it.
It is a plug-n-play antenna devoid of any bolts/screws or wiring, just screw it onto your existing antenna mount and within a minute you are ready to enjoy better reception on your jeep stereo.
Whether you install it in front or the rear of your jeep, this antenna will give your car a beautiful appearance. Its durability is also an upgrade from the factory-fitted antenna or any stock antenna.
Finally, this antenna does not affect the functionality of GPS navigation, On-Star, Sirius XM radio, or Bluetooth because these services utilize a different antenna.
Highlighted Features
- Measures 6 inches
- Made with stainless steel
- Innovative plug-n-play installation
- Easy to install
- Suitable for the JK and JS models from 2007 to 2018
7. KEYO1E Pure Copper Antenna fit for 2007-2018 Jeep JK Wrangler
The KEYO1E is specially designed to add style and beauty to your jeep wrangler. Thus, if you are looking for more style for your jeep rather than better reception to the available radio stations, then the KEYO1E is for you.
The antenna is produced from highly purified TU2 Non-oxygen copper material and aircraft coating.
This gives it a robust anti-interference ability and top-quality protection. Its small design makes the KEYO1E shorter and more stylish than others. Also, its size means that you no longer have to worry about your antenna breaking off in the car wash or garage.
Since it is already small, the antenna is not flexible. It is a plug-n-play antenna devoid of any bolts/screws or wiring, just screw it onto your existing antenna mount and within a minute your jeep with have a different look.
Highlighted Features
- Strong anti-interference ability
- Top-quality durability
- Heat resistance up to 3500F
- Easy to install
- Long-lasting, with a 2-year warranty
8. Jeep Wrangler Antenna, Auto Safety 4.7” Pure Copper Antenna fit for 2007-2018
If you are looking to add some style and beauty to your jeep wrangler rather than better reception to the available radio stations, the Jeep Wrangler Antenna is for you.
The antenna is produced from brass with a hard black anodized finish that will not chip, scratch, or fade over time.
Thus, you don’t have to worry about changing antennas anytime soon when you get the Jeep Wrangler Antenna Auto Safety. At 4.7 inches, its mini design also makes this antenna shorter and more stylish than others.
Also, its size means that you no longer have to worry about your antenna breaking off in the car wash or garage. Since it is already small, the antenna is not flexible.
Furthermore, this antenna is very easy to install; all you need so is to take the thread and put it into your car’s existing antenna mount and follow that up by putting the antenna on top and tightening it hard with your hands.
Highlighted Features
- Carbon Fiber Wrap Antenna
- Made from brass and will not rust under any weather condition
- High-quality design
- Very affordable
- Easy screw-on installation
- The package comes with 1 Car antenna and 1 Screw
9. 50 Cal Caliber BRASS Finish BULLET ANTENNA Heavy Gauge CNC Machined
The new VMS Racing 50 Caliber Bullet style antenna will add a new dimension to the looks of your car. It is designed like a bullet and the all-black color further adds to its beauty.
In addition to its beauty, this antenna is built to last; produced with excellent Aircraft quality T-6061 billet aluminum and hard anodized.
While there are many other antennas that are made with aluminum billets, the VMS Racing 50 Caliber Bullet antenna is produced with 100% CNC billet aluminum not just some cheap aluminum.
This means that this antenna will not break from a car wash or get chipped in bad weather conditions. As a matter of fact, its hard ionized finish means that this antenna will not fade with time.
This is the best antenna for a jeep wrangler, especially if you are after style over radio reception.
It is very easy to install this antenna on your jeep yourself even if you have no technical skills. Every VMS Racing 50 Caliber Bullet antenna has a variety of adapter studs and spacers to enable you to install it on most jeeps with screw-in-style antennas.
However, it won’t fit jeeps that have power-retractable bases for the antenna.
Highlighted Features
- Top-quality T-6061 100% CNC Aluminium billet
- 5 Inches long
- Easy to install
- Come with 6 Different Size of Screws to fit most jeeps
- Long-lasting and durable finish.
- Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JK Sahara Sport Rubicon Unlimited X X-S Mountain Islander Wilys Wheeler Polar Freedom Fifty 2007-2015
10. Rugged Ridge 17212.07 Antenna (Reflex, 9″, 97-18 Jeep Wrangler TJ/JK)
At 9 inches long, the rugged ridge 17212.07 antenna is far shorter than the excessively long and unattractive factory fitted jeep wrangler antenna that hits your garage door each time you are going out or coming in.
By lowering antenna height significantly, Rugged Ridge has been able to decrease the chances of the antenna being broken by tree limbs, trail hazards and during automated car washes.
As a matter of fact, this antenna is aptly nicknamed “The Reflex Antenna” because when you hang anything, it just bends over and returns to an upright position when the load is removed.
Furthermore, it is also very simple to install, especially considering that it comes with a threaded adapter.
All you need do is unscrew the lower part of the antenna and thread the inside metal rod all the way in and then screw the lower part back onto the antenna.
Highlighted Features
- Unique, cutting-edge style
- Top-notch red powder finish premium
- Works with OE and aftermarket radio antennas
- Very flexible
- Easy to install
Things to Consider When Buying a Jeep Antenna
Decide if you want style over radio reception
When you decide to change your factory-fitted antenna for a modern version, you have to decide why you really want to buy an antenna. While some people go for an antenna that will complement the beauty of their jeeps, others buy an antenna that will give them more options with regard to radio stations.
However, you have to know the purpose of the antenna you are buying to be able to make a good choice. This is because some antennas are built with style in mind, while others are meant to enhance the quality of your reception.
Generally, shorter and stylish antennas are meant to enhance the beauty of your jeep, while the relatively longer ones have better reception.
FM or AM or both
Some antennas have the ability to transmit both AM and FM bands, while others can only transmit either of them. If you have more FM stations around your vicinity, it is better to go for FM antennas and vice versa.
Flexibility
Some of the antennas in this jeep antenna review are flexible. Flexible antennas have obvious advantages; the chances of the antenna being broken by tree limbs, trail hazards, and during automated car washes are very low, compared to antennas that are not flexible.
Thus, if you are constantly traveling through rough terrain or the weather conditions around you get really windy then consider buying a flexible antenna.
The material used to make the antenna
If you decide to go for style over radio reception, it is advisable to choose an antenna that is made with a material that will not fade easily. This will ensure that you don’t spend money on an antenna that will not last long and you have to replace it.
Aircraft quality aluminum or copper is less likely to fade quickly. If you decide to go for aluminum antennas, don’t go for those that are made with cheap aluminum. Buy antennas that are produced with billet aluminum or higher.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I Pass a Jeep Antenna Through a Car Wash?
Yes, you can. Modern Jeep antennas are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Most of them are constructed from quality materials such as aluminum and flexible rubber. So, in the case of an auto-car wash, the antenna will bend easily and avoid breaking. But, to stay on the safe side, it’s always recommended that you remove the antenna first to avoid unforeseen situations that can cause damage.
Q2: Why is a Jeep Antenna Necessary?
Unless you’re hanging out in the city, a good radio signal is necessary when driving in rural isolated regions. Since such places have poor signal reception, a Jeep antenna allows you to capture strong signals for communication or for listening to your favorite radio stations.
Also, a Jeep antenna allows you to get important updates such as weather updates and security information across the region you’re driving to.
Q3:Why Do I Need to Replace My Stock Antenna?
First, your stock antenna performs perfectly. So, the issue of replacing it with an aftermarket option is not based on the performance but rather on personal preference and taste. To those planning to modify their Jeeps, an aftermarket Jeep antenna is perceived as a perfect mod that gives your Jeep a cool Porsche look.
Q4: Are Jeep Antennas Universal?
The answer is no. Now, most Jeep antennas are universal. However, some of them are vehicle specific. So, when searching for a Jeep antenna, you should read the description to ensure the antenna you get fits your specific Jeep model.
Final Verdict:
This jeep wrangler antenna review has provided details of the best jeep antennas available on the market today. Before you decide which jeep antenna to buy, look at the buying guide to help you make the best decision.
Furthermore, consider the reason why you are buying a jeep antenna and whether or not you will be driving through rough terrains or not.
That said, the recommendations in this review are meant to serve as a guide for you to make a final decision on the type of jeep wrangler antenna you want to buy.
Notwithstanding whether you already have this knowledge, this review will remind you of the best jeep wrangler antenna available or those that you must consider the next time you want to buy one.
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