What Is a Jeep Cherokee Cold Weather Package?
by Macka Andrew
In colder climates, the cold-weather option package is popular on Jeep Cherokees. In particular, the package provides benefits where snow and ice are encountered. The package itself is often labeled the "Cold Weather Group" by Jeep and is consistent in its offerings across Jeep Cherokee model lineups year-to-year. It comes as an extra-cost option when the vehicle is purchased new from the dealer.
Heated Seats
Electrically heated seats are a key component of the cold-weather package. Both the driver and front passenger seats contain electric elements that are activated by a switch on the vehicle console. There is a high and low setting for each seat. In the 2011 model year for Jeep Cherokees, heated rear seats will be offered in the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Mirrors
Jeep addresses a number of potentially hazardous cold-weather situations by offering heated external mirrors as part of the cold-weather package. The heated mirrors can be activated from inside the vehicle to melt snow or ice buildup that restricts vision. In rainy conditions, the heated mirrors also assist in clearing fogging on the mirrors.
Engine
Extremely cold conditions can be a strain on vehicle engines and batteries. To address this issue, the cold-weather package normally, though not always, includes an engine-block heater system. An engine-block heater allows the driver to plug the engine into an electrical outlet. This accessory keeps the engine block warm so the vehicle is easier to start.
Battery
A battery warmer is also sometimes part of a cold-weather package. The battery warmer, like an engine-block heater, plugs into an electrical outlet when the car isn't running. Keeping the battery warm reduces the drain in very cold conditions.
Exceptions
Heated seats are only available on vehicles with leather-trimmed seats. Some options offered in the cold-weather package can be added as separate components if a Jeep buyer decides to add these feature alone.
References
Writer Bio
Macka Andrew has been writing since 1986 on topics as diverse as immigration law and technology. He has been published in daily newspapers, including "The Times" in London and has written for CNN.com. He has also won awards, including a Quill Award for best news story of the year. He completed a journalism cadetship at "The Telegraph" newspaper in Brisbane, Australia.
