Jeeps were not always referred to by that name. Used during World War II, the Willys MB was renamed as a civilian Jeep (CJ). The vehicle, itself, was born out of the need for a fully customizable vehicle that could be retrofitted and changed to fit the terrain it would be called to serve in. Once it was offered to the public it was quickly discovered that there were some safety issues.
Jeeps were not always referred to by that name. Used during World War II, the Willys MB was renamed as a civilian Jeep (CJ). The vehicle, itself, was born out of the need for a fully customizable vehicle that could be retrofitted and changed to fit the terrain it would be called to serve in. Once it was offered to the public it was quickly discovered that there were some safety issues. Drivers were not accustomed to driving such a different type of vehicle whose design made it top heavy and prone to rolling. Soon, the Jeep manufacturers realized that they were going to have to build in some safety features in order to keep the public safe from itself. Some of the first safety features included rollbars and suspension upgrades. These upgrades helped the Jeep’s safety ratings some, but it wouldn’t be until the 1980s that they would get it right. The CJ Wrangler in 1986 was the first of many, safer, Jeeps.
Jeep Safety Features
If you drive a Jeep like a hellion, then you are going to have to expect some instability in the vehicle. However, for drivers who know the vehicle, and its capabilities, the Jeep can be incredibly safe. Some of this is because of the safety devices and upgrades that have been introduced with nearly every new generation of Jeep. Initially, the rollbars were just for cosmetics and would fold on impact. Today, the rollbars are sturdier, roll cages have padding included to reduce head injuries, and air bags have been introduced.
One of the best additions, which benefits you when you are off-roading, is the reinforced high strength pillars that are made of steel. This increases the likelihood of coming out of direct hit or a t-bone with minimal injuries. Stability controls have also been introduced which automatically correct for less experienced drivers who may oversteer, or understeer. Newer models offer a ERM (electronic roll mitigation) which will not allow the driver to put himself (or herself) into a situation where the Jeep is likely to roll. Antilock Brake systems (four-wheel disc) decreases the stopping distances, especially on slippery surfaces, or dry surfaces with a lot of substrate (rocks, dirt, and sand). One of the best features to be introduced was the wide-spaced frame rails, which offer additional protection to the fuel tank. Of course, all of this has not been at the expense of the characteristics that make Jeeps popular, and the ground clearance, legendary traction, water fording abilities, and the maneuverability are as good, or better, than ever.
Jeep’s New Safety Technology
Safety doesn’t just extend to the frame and the anti-lock brakes. Many of the new models have a remote keyless entry system, as well as a sentry key theft deterrent system, which means that the car will not drive without its own specific key. The 2017 Wrangler has the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine, which gives you approximately 285 horsepower, giving you power off road when you need it the most. Jeep knows that its drivers will most likely take the vehicle off the main road, and to that end have now included a Hill Descent Control which lets you monitor the amount of speed, braking, and throttle that you’ll need when going down a steep incline. The new Hill Start Assist feature keeps you safe because it keeps the brakes on for a short time after braking, which gives you time to accelerate without rollback. The Rubicon offers locking differentials, electronic sway bar disconnects, and rock rails. However, what’s best about the Jeep is what has made it a favorite for decades: it’s fully customizable. This means that you can install additional safety features to continue to improve your ride’s performance and reliability.
