Removing the doors from a 2013 Jeep Wrangler is a popular modification among off-road enthusiasts and those who love an open-air driving experience. This process is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail to prevent damage and ensure safety. Whether you want easier access, more visibility on trails, or simply to enjoy the breeze, taking the doors off can transform your ride. But it’s not only about freedom—doing it right protects your Jeep and keeps you safe. Let’s walk through the steps, highlight key tips, and address common questions, all within your word budget.
Tools And Preparation
Before you begin, gather the right tools:
- 13mm socket wrench: For hinge bolts
- T40 Torx bit: For door strap bolts
- Safety gloves: To protect your hands
- Microfiber cloth: For cleaning hinge areas
Check your workspace. Park on a flat surface and disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues, especially if your doors have power windows or locks. This step is sometimes skipped, but disconnecting the battery prevents accidental short circuits, and can also help protect airbag systems and sensitive electronics.
Also, make sure you have enough room to open your doors fully and store them safely after removal. If possible, work in a garage or driveway where you won’t need to move your Jeep until the doors are back on.
| Tool | Purpose | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 13mm Socket Wrench | Remove hinge bolts | $10-$20 |
| T40 Torx Bit | Door strap bolts | $7-$15 |
| Microfiber Cloth | Clean hinges | $5-$10 |
If you’ve never worked with Torx bits, remember they are star-shaped and fit snugly in the bolt head. Using the wrong bit can strip the bolt, making removal much harder.
Step-by-step Door Removal
Follow these steps for each door on your Jeep Wrangler:
1. Lower The Windows
Roll down all windows before removal. This makes the doors lighter and prevents glass damage during handling. Lowered windows also give you a better grip, especially when lifting or carrying the door.
2. Disconnect Electrical Connections
Open the door fully. Locate the wiring harness near the door hinge. Press the release tab and gently pull the connector apart. If your Jeep has manual locks and windows, skip this step. For automatic models, be gentle with the connectors—forcing them can bend pins or break the plastic. Some owners label the connectors with tape for easy reconnection later.
3. Remove The Door Strap
Find the door check strap—this is the fabric loop connected between the door and the frame. Use the T40 Torx bit to remove the bolt securing the strap, then slip the strap off the hook. This strap prevents the door from swinging too far open during normal use, so removing it frees the door for lifting.
4. Unscrew The Hinge Bolts
Using a 13mm socket wrench, loosen and remove the hinge bolts located at the top and bottom of the door. Place the bolts in a safe spot, as losing them can make reinstallation difficult. Some Jeep owners use a magnetic tray or a small container labeled for each door to stay organized.
5. Lift And Remove The Door
Hold the door firmly with both hands. Lift upwards and away from the body. Jeep doors are heavier than they look, weighing around 50 pounds each. If you struggle, ask for help. When lifting, avoid twisting or dragging the door—this can damage the hinge or scratch your paint. Some people place a soft pad or towel under the door in case it slips.
6. Store The Doors Safely
Store removed doors vertically in a dry area. Use padding to prevent scratches. Jeep offers door bags for extra protection, but a towel or blanket works too. Keep the doors away from foot traffic, pets, or anything that could knock them over.
If you plan to keep the doors off for a long time, check on them occasionally to be sure they haven’t shifted or been exposed to moisture.
| Step | Time Estimate | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Windows | 1 minute | Easy |
| Disconnect Electrical | 2 minutes | Moderate |
| Remove Strap | 2 minutes | Easy |
| Unscrew Hinges | 3 minutes | Moderate |
| Lift & Remove | 2 minutes | Hard |
| Store Doors | 2 minutes | Easy |
Practical Tips And Common Mistakes
Many Jeep owners overlook some simple but important details:
- Lubricate hinges: Before reinstalling, use a silicone spray on hinges to prevent squeaking.
- Check weather forecast: Avoid door removal if rain is expected, as interior electronics are vulnerable.
- Beware paint scratches: Use a microfiber cloth around hinges while lifting to avoid scuffs.
- Secure bolts and connectors: Place all removed hardware in a labeled bag for easy reinstallation.
Another tip: Take photos of each step, especially wiring. This helps when you put everything back, especially if you wait weeks before reinstalling.
One non-obvious insight: The mirror is attached to the door, so after removal, you lose side mirrors. You must install aftermarket mirrors for legal driving in most states. Some quick-mount mirrors attach directly to the windshield frame or hinge, making installation fast and tool-free.
Another thing beginners miss: If your Jeep has factory-installed door sensors, removing the doors may cause a dash light or chime. This is normal, but if you want to avoid it, there are inexpensive plug-in solutions to trick the system.
Safety And Legal Considerations
Driving without doors is not just about comfort. Check state laws regarding side mirrors—most require at least one on the driver’s side. The Jeep’s exposed wiring after door removal should be covered to prevent water damage. Use electrical tape or a purpose-made cap.
Another insight: Airbags in the doors (if equipped) will not function when the doors are removed. This may affect crash safety. Also, some states require doors for children under a certain age, so check local rules if you drive with family.
Be aware that without doors, road debris or branches can enter the cabin more easily, especially when off-roading. Consider wearing seat belts at all times and keeping loose items secure.
| State | Minimum Mirror Requirement | Fine for No Mirror |
|---|---|---|
| California | 1 (Driver’s side) | $100-$200 |
| Texas | 2 (Driver & Passenger) | $150 |
| Florida | 1 (Driver’s side) | $80-$120 |
Reattaching The Doors
Reinstallation is the reverse of removal. Align the hinges, lower the door slowly, and secure with bolts. Reconnect the wiring harness and attach the check strap. Always test the windows and locks before driving. If anything doesn’t work, double-check the wiring connections before driving off.
If your doors feel stiff or hard to close after reinstalling, a small adjustment to the hinges may help. Over time, hinges can become misaligned, especially if doors are removed often.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Heavy Are The Doors On A 2013 Jeep Wrangler?
Each door weighs about 50 pounds. Rear doors may be slightly lighter than front doors. If you have trouble with lifting, ask a friend for help or use a door removal tool.
Can I Drive Legally Without Doors?
Yes, but you must have side mirrors installed. Laws vary by state, so check before driving. In some states, police may pull you over if you don’t have visible mirrors.
Will Removing Doors Affect The Jeep’s Warranty?
Door removal is supported by Jeep, but damage caused during removal or improper storage may void parts of the warranty. Always follow your owner’s manual instructions.
How Do I Protect The Wiring After Removing The Doors?
Cover the exposed connectors with electrical tape or a plastic bag to prevent moisture and dirt from causing corrosion. Some owners buy special connector covers for a cleaner look.
Are There Aftermarket Solutions For Mirrors?
Many brands offer clip-on mirrors designed for doorless Jeeps. These install in minutes and help you meet legal requirements. Look for options that don’t vibrate at highway speeds for best visibility.
Taking the doors off your 2013 Jeep Wrangler is a rewarding upgrade, whether you’re heading for trails or just enjoying the open road. With proper tools, careful handling, and attention to legal details, you can enjoy the freedom of doorless driving safely. For more official guidance, visit the Jeep Official Site.
