Hello, I’m Vincent Nowatzke, your Sales Consultant here at NewGen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Clinton with over two years of experience helping customers find the perfect Jeep for their lifestyle. One of the questions I hear often, especially from folks around Clinton, Manchester, and Tecumseh, is about the experience and legality of driving a Jeep without doors and how practical it really is. I want to share my insights from working with Jeep enthusiasts daily, so you can make an informed decision when considering taking the doors off your Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator.
Let’s dive into how long it takes to remove Jeep Wrangler doors and what you need to know legally and practically about driving doorless around Clinton and surrounding areas like Saline and Chelsea.
First off, removing the doors on a Jeep Wrangler, including the JL model, is a straightforward process that typically takes around 30 minutes the first time you try it. From my experience, customers find that after the initial removal, subsequent removals take half that time. This means you’re looking at roughly 15 minutes once you get the hang of it. The process involves using a small ratchet with Torx 40 and 50 bits, tools that come in the kit Jeep provides with every Wrangler. If you ever misplace these, you can always get replacements from our Mopar Parts Center, right here in Clinton.
Before you start, it’s essential to lower the windows to protect the glass and fold in the side mirrors, since the factory mirrors are attached to the doors. You’ll also disconnect the wiring harness that powers the locks and windows, remove the hinge bolts carefully to avoid scratching your paint, and then lift the door straight up off the hinges. We advise storing the doors on a soft blanket or using door storage bags to keep them safe between uses.
Now, when it comes to the legality of driving doorless, here’s what I always tell our customers in Clinton and nearby communities like Norvell and Milan. It’s generally legal to drive a Jeep with the doors removed across most states, including Michigan. However, the key point is that your Jeep still needs to have functional side mirrors to meet state vehicle safety laws. Since the side mirrors on most Wranglers are attached to the doors, you must install aftermarket mirrors that mount to the body or hinges to remain street-legal and safe. This is crucial because driving without the proper mirrors could lead to citations or insurance complications, especially if you’re involved in an accident.
Safety-wise, doors provide structural protection during a collision or rollover, so driving doorless means you need to be more cautious, always wear your seatbelt, and ensure your Jeep is equipped with reinforced grab handles and other safety features. Around busy roads near Jackson or on weekend trips through Chelsea, this becomes especially important.
Some customers ask if it’s illegal to just take the doors off. While no state explicitly bans removing the doors—except for Pennsylvania, which requires doors for most vehicles on public roads—you do have to meet mirror requirements and adjust your driving accordingly. For instance, you should avoid aggressive turns and maintain awareness of your surroundings since some advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring may not function without the doors.
Regarding tools, the removal kit that comes with every new Jeep is pretty much all you need. It includes a fold-out instruction card, a compact ratchet, and the necessary Torx bits (sizes 40 and 50). If you’re in Clinton and need these tools, you can reach out to our parts department to get exactly what you need without delay.
Another common curiosity is whether all Jeep Wrangler doors can come off. The answer is yes. Jeep designed the Wrangler and Gladiator with removable doors as a key feature. The doors are lighter now—especially on newer JL models where aluminum is used—making it easier to handle the removal process. On average, a front door weighs around 48 to 50 pounds, while older models may be a bit heavier, around 60 pounds. This design consideration makes door removal accessible for most owners.
For those wondering about replacement costs, Jeep doors vary based on materials and style. A typical full steel door replacement can cost between $500 to $1500 per set. That range accounts for OEM parts and aftermarket options. If you need parts or want to upgrade your doors, our Mopar Parts Center stocks a variety of door options, including half doors, tube doors, and replacement hardware to fit your needs. We’re here to help you find the best fit and pricing.
If you’re deciding which Jeep models allow door removal, the Wrangler and Gladiator are the standout options. Both models are engineered with easy door removal in mind, giving you the freedom to tailor your vehicle for both rugged trails and suburban drives around towns like Addison, Britton, or Dundee. Jeep is even expanding this feature to the upcoming Recon EV, so the tradition of open-air driving continues with electric power.
At NewGen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Clinton, we take pride in guiding you through every step, whether you’re customizing your Jeep for off-road adventures or daily drives. Be sure to check out our New Inventory for the latest Jeep Wrangler models with removable doors, or All used inventory if you’re looking for a excellent value on a pre-owned model. We also offer flexible financing options tailored to your needs and vehicle trade-in evaluations through our Get your trade value or an offer to purchase tool to get you the best deal possible—even if you’re just exploring your options.
Once you’ve got your Jeep set up, remember that regular maintenance is key to keeping your doors and hinges working smoothly. Our certified technicians use genuine parts and are experts in Jeep care. You can easily Schedule Service online to fit your busy life here in Clinton or surrounding communities like Cement City or Tipton.
Taking the doors off your Jeep is about embracing a rugged, open-air lifestyle that resonates deeply with Michiganders who appreciate weekend adventures and family road trips. We’re here to help you experience that freedom safely and confidently. If you want to learn more about Jeep features, maintenance tips, or even the power and performance of models like the New Dodge Durango RT Plus AWD, stop by our dealership at 1111 W Michigan Ave, Clinton, MI 49236 or call us at (517) 456-6555. We’re ready to help you get behind the wheel and feel the difference yourself.
Shopping at NewGen CDJR is car buying the way it should be: fun, informative, and fair We promise transparent pricing, a pressure-free sales process, and financing experts who work with a variety of lenders. Whether you’re challenged by credit or looking for your dream Jeep, our wide selection of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles has something for everyone. Plus, we’ll buy your car with no purchase required It’s all about building long-lasting relationships with our local Clinton community and the many towns we serve.
Finally, for ongoing updates, tips, and stories about Jeep life and everything automotive, you can check out our Blog. It’s a great resource for staying connected and informed.