Synthetic Jeep Cherokee bumper winches have become the preferred choice among owners. Whether you’re purchasing a new winch or replacing an old one, opting for a synthetic cable winch is highly recommended. Synthetic winches are popular for a reason—they offer superior performance, safety, and ease of use compared to traditional steel cables.
The Jeep Cherokee has evolved into a versatile and capable SUV, built to conquer diverse Jeep trail terrains. With advanced features like traction control, enhanced tire technology, and traction aids, the Cherokee is well-equipped for any road—or trail. Its Selec-Terrain system, hill descent control, and low-range transfer case further enhance its off-road capabilities. Despite its ruggedness, the Cherokee also boasts modern amenities, including advanced safety features and comfort options, leading some owners to argue that a winch might be an outdated tool.
While 90% of Jeep winch recoveries involve helping others, the remaining 10% underscores the need to be prepared for anything. A winch can be a lifesaver, especially when traveling solo.
At Jeep Runner, we tested four synthetic winches on our Jeep Cherokee to find the best replacement for our steel cable winches. We opted for synthetic winches because they weigh less—a crucial factor for Jeep Cherokee Overlanders who tend to pack heavy. Plus, synthetic winches are safer; if they break, they’re far less dangerous than steel cables, which can turn into flying katanas.
Table of Contents
Summary of The Best Synthetic Jeep Cherokee Bumper Winch
#1 Warn VR EVO 12-S Electric Winch – 12,000 lb with Synthetic Rope
#2 Rough Country PRO Series 12,000 lb Electric Winch with Synthetic Rope
#3 Smittybilt X2O GEN3 12,000Lbs with Synthetic Rope
#4 Superwinch SX10SR 10,000 lb Waterproof Winch with Synthetic Rope
Testing and Considerations
Weight of the Jeep Cherokee
If you are thinking of buying a Jeep Cherokee winch, my advice is to start with the weight of the Jeep Cherokee, we recommend making sure you have a minimum winch rated at least 2-2.5 the Jeep Cherokee weight, here is a summarized table to guide you:
| Jeep Cherokee Model Year | Jeep Cherokee Generation | Jeep Cherokee Curb Weight Range | Jeep Cherokee Winch Reccomendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1984-2001 | XJ | 2,800 – 3,500 lbs | Winch rated at 7,000 – 8,750 lbs |
| 2002-2012 | KJ/KK (Liberty in U.S.) | 3,700 – 4,300 lbs | Winch rated at 9,250 – 10,750 lbs |
| 2014-2018 | KL (1st Phase) | 3,700 – 4,200 lbs | Winch rated at 9,250 – 10,500 lbs |
| 2019-Present | KL (2nd Phase) | Jeep Cherokee Winch Recommendations | Winch rated at 9,500 – 11,250 lbs |
We recommend using 12,000 lbs winches for all Jeep Cherokees, including the 2019-Present models as well as older versions. Although older models may have a lower stock curb weight, they could have a higher payload capacity or gross vehicle weight due to extensive off-roading or overlanding customizations.
Quality of Your Jeep Cherokee Winch
Another crucial factor is the quality of your Jeep Cherokee winch. Winches face harsh conditions—mud, snow, salt, and extreme temperatures—and are often left unspooled for long periods, making them a key safety device, much like a first aid kit. We recommend investing in the best winch you can afford to ensure it performs reliably when you need it most. High-quality winches are built to endure these tough environments and heavy loads, offering superior durability and performance. Premium winches from trusted brands like Warn, Rough Country, Smittybilt, and Superwinch, which we’ve reviewed in this guide, also provide excellent customer support, warranty coverage, and ease of maintenance, making them a smart long-term investment for your Jeep Cherokee off-roading and overlanding adventures.
Mounting System of Your Jeep Cherokee Winch
Ensure that your winch matches the specifications of your Jeep Cherokee’s winch mounting system. Verify that the winch’s mounting dimensions and weight ratings align with your Jeep’s mount or aftermarket bumper to guarantee reliable operation and maintain vehicle integrity. When upgrading from a steel cable to a synthetic winch line, it’s crucial to replace the fair lead. A roller fairlead designed for steel cables can damage a synthetic line, so you should install a Hawse-style fairlead instead.
This replacement is typically straightforward, involving just a few bolts, and ensures that your new synthetic line performs optimally without risk of damage. Always refer to the installation guidelines from both the winch and bumper manufacturers.
If you don’t already have a front bumper for winch installations, here are some of the front bumper we recommend for mounting a Jeep Cherokee winch:
Best Jeep Cherokee XJ Winch Mounting System
Best Synthetic Jeep Cherokee Bumper Winch
Highlighted below are some of our top picks for the Best Synthetic Jeep Cherokee Bumper Winches. These selections represent a range of high-quality winches that offer exceptional performance, durability, and reliability. Whether you’re tackling rugged off-road trails or preparing for Overlanding adventures, these winches have been chosen based on their superior features, expert reviews, and proven effectiveness.
We recommend these synthetic Jeep Cherokee bumper winch options to ensure you have the best Jeep recovery equipment for your Jeep adventures.
1 Warn VR EVO 12-S Electric Winch – 12,000 lb with Synthetic Rope
When Jeep Runner put the Warn VR EVO 12-S to the test on a Jeep Cherokee, it quickly proved itself as a high-performance winch built for demanding large-frame rigs such as Jeep Cherokees. This winch, with its impressive 12,000 lb capacity, demonstrated exceptional durability and power, ideal for challenging terrain.
Warn’s legacy of reliability, stretching back to 1974, shines through in the VR EVO 12-S. Since its introduction, the Warn winch has seen significant upgrades, including enhanced heat treating on the spur gears and a switch to a contactor solid state control system. These improvements boost its pulling power from 8,000 to 12,000 pounds and enhance overall reliability.
One standout feature of the VR EVO 12-S is its foot-forward design—a rarity among winches—which requires a custom bumper but excels in pulling performance. It’s also the only non-planetary gear winch in this category, using spur gears in an oil bath. This setup contributes to its high-speed operation, running at over 37 feet per minute unloaded, though a slower, steady approach might be preferable for recovery.
During testing, the VR EVO 12-S consistently performed up to its rated capacity, pulling 12,000 pounds before any sign of strain. The free spool mechanism functioned smoothly, although disengaging the T-handle required some effort. The provided hook, while functional, could be upgraded to a more durable option like a 12,000 lbs Epic winch hook.
The winch’s controller is robust, featuring a well-designed cable and keyed connector. Recent updates include an Albright contactor system and improved waterproofing. The integrated external disc brake system is a notable feature, offering effective cooling and reliable braking, essential for vehicle recovery.
We paired the Warn VR EVO 12-S Electric Winch with a WARN Stealth Series Winch Cover and a WARN Rubber Winch Cable/Hook Bump Stop to ensure top-notch performance and value on our Jeep Cherokee. Mounted on the front of the Jeep Cherokee, the winch endures relentless exposure to mud, snow, salt, and rain, all while being close to the radiator and subject to daily heat and cold cycles. It often stays unspooled for years, only to be called upon for demanding tasks when the going gets tough. Given its harsh treatment, the Stealth Series Winch Cover provides crucial protection against the elements, while the Rubber Winch Cable/Hook Bump Stop prevents cable damage and reduces impact stress.
2 Rough Country PRO Series 12,000 lb Electric Winch with Synthetic Rope
The Rough Country PRO Series 12,000 lb winch delivers exceptional performance at a competitive price. Known for its durable construction, it features a protective solenoid cover and comes with a lifetime warranty. Although it may not have the same brand recognition as Warn, the Rough Country PRO Series offers outstanding value for those on a budget. Unlike the Badland ZXR 12,000 lb winch, which is often criticized for its lower durability and reliability, the Rough Country PRO Series is a more dependable choice. For Jeep Cherokee owners seeking a reliable, long-lasting budget-friendly winch, upgrading to the Rough Country PRO Series 12,000 lb Electric Winch is a wise investment.
Expert testing on a Jeep Cherokee by Jeep Runner highlighted several key features of the Rough Country PRO Series 12,000 lb winch. The winch boasts a simple controller with “In” and “Out” labels, a robust cable, and a metal connector with a locking mechanism. It is equipped with high-quality synthetic rope, a strong cast hook, and a large-radius fairlead, along with an exclusive LED lighting system for the drum. The clutch release is straightforward, utilizing an upward pull and twist mechanism, while the free spool operation is noted for its smooth and effective performance.
The winch’s sturdy design shows no visible flex or twist and demonstrates good heat retention. During testing, the mechanical brake performed reliably during vehicle lowering, and the winch maintained average line speed with safe operating rates. It passed the stall test flawlessly, handling 12,000 pounds with an additional 500-1,000 pounds of capacity.
3 Smittybilt X2O GEN3 12,000Lbs with Synthetic Rope
The Smittybilt X2O GEN3 is another budget-friendly option that offers impressive features. Its weatherproof design, wireless remote control, and built-in line-out control make it a versatile choice for off-road adventures. While it may not have the same level of durability as some other brands, the Smittybilt X2O GEN3 provides excellent value and is a suitable option for those looking for a reliable winch without breaking the bank.
4 Superwinch SX10SR 10,000 lb Waterproof Winch with Synthetic Rope
The Superwinch SX10SR is a standout choice for a compact, lightweight winch, reflecting Superwinch’s rich history of reliability since 1972. Acquired by Westin Automotive in 2019, Superwinch’s redesign of their product line led to the creation of the SX series, including the SX10SR, which incorporates valuable feedback from long-time users and industry professionals.
The SX10SR features a solid-state control system housed in a die-cast aluminum box, which can be relocated if necessary. The control box is well-sealed with a rubber spring-loaded mechanism, and its metal connector with a locking mechanism ensures a secure connection. The wireless remote, which includes an LED flashlight, adds convenience and visibility.
The rope and fairlead are of high quality, with a strong, cast rope hook and an innovative LED lighting system for the drum. The clutch release is simple to use, and the winch performed exceptionally well in tests, handling up to 10,190 pounds with ease. Its solid housing and gusseted design minimize flex and twist, although it does retain heat during extended use.
Overall, the Superwinch SX10SR offers excellent performance and durability in a compact package, making it a great choice for those seeking a smaller, affordable winch with high-end features.
Conclusions
After extensive testing and evaluation, it’s clear that the winch market has significantly evolved. Today’s winches offer exceptional performance, reliability, and versatility, making them essential tools for off-road enthusiasts. While many of the tested winches would be suitable for most needs, the Warn VR EVO 12-S Electric Winch stands out as the Editor’s Choice. Its modern features, versatility, durability, and performance make it an ideal choice for various Jeep Cherokee recovery applications.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Rough Country PRO Series is a strong contender, offering impressive value and features.
Recommended Setup:
For optimal performance and value, consider pairing the Warn VR EVO 12-S Electric Winch with a WARN Stealth Series Winch Cover and a WARN Rubber Winch Cable/Hook Bump Stop.
This combination offers enhanced protection and longevity for your winch. The Warn VR EVO 12-S provides robust pulling power and reliability, making it ideal for challenging off-road conditions. The WARN Stealth Series Winch Cover shields your winch from dirt, moisture, and UV rays, ensuring it remains in peak condition. Meanwhile, the WARN Rubber Winch Cable/Hook Bump Stop protects the synthetic rope and hook from damage during use, extending their lifespan and maintaining optimal performance. Together, these components ensure that your winch is well-protected, efficient, and ready for any adventure.
By carefully considering these factors and selecting the right winch for your specific needs, you can enhance your off-road adventures with confidence and safety.
About the Author: James Ndungu
James Ndungu is a seasoned automotive professional with a deep passion for Jeeps. With 40 years of experience in owning, testing, and reviewing various Jeep models, James has gained extensive first-hand knowledge and expertise. He shares his insights, tips, and advice through his engaging writing, helping fellow Jeep enthusiasts navigate the exciting world of Jeeps.
Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
