Owning a Jeep is more than just having a vehicle; it’s joining a community with its distinctive traditions and quirks.
One of the most well-known traditions in the Jeep community is the Jeep Wave. This friendly gesture allows Jeep Wrangler owners to acknowledge each other on the road. It doesn’t matter where you are, if you pass another Wrangler you’ll likely receive a wave from the opposing driver. Not returning the wave is considered taboo in the community.
The wave has several signature styles, ranging from a full-hand wave to a subtle two-finger acknowledgment, but it’s always done with the hand on the wheel. Some Jeep owners even put a hand sticker on the lower left of the windshield to ensure a wave is never missed.
In 1997, Jeep designer Michael Santoro decided to add a unique design element to each Wrangler and hide it somewhere on the vehicle. These hidden gems, known as “Easter Eggs,” have become a beloved aspect of Jeep culture. Somebody can find Easter Eggs on a Jeep, such as small silhouettes of the Jeep grille, a lizard, or even a spider hidden in the fuel door.
Finding these eggs has become a fun activity for Jeep owners and enthusiasts. Some models have more than 30 hidden eggs, making it a continuous treasure hunt for Jeep enthusiasts. It’s always exciting to spot and celebrate these unique touches that make each Jeep truly special.
A relatively new tradition in the Jeep community is “Duck-Duck-Jeep.” This started with Allison Parliament from Bancroft, Ontario in 2020. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Allison found a bag of rubber ducks at a discount store. Inspired, she left a duck on a Jeep in the parking lot with a note that said, “Nice Jeep.” The owner was so moved by this random act of kindness that he decided to buy his own bag of ducks and pay it forward.
The idea for this story came to me because my son Michael, 21, is a Jeep owner. He has a 1998 Wrangler that he loves. One day, he came home with a rubber duck and it caused me to take a trip down memory lane. My first job selling cars was at a Jeep store in 1990, where I was a 21-year-old, just like Michael is now. I recall how emotional people got over their Jeeps. Throughout my career, I have sold or been responsible for the sale of thousands of them.
I’ve had every model made since the mid-80s at one point or another through various business ventures and have never had a problem selling them. It’s really a phenomenal brand, and very few have the status and staying power that Jeeps do.
I currently own a 2001 Jeep Wrangler 60th Anniversary that I got from the first owner. It was purchased from a store I worked at in my youth from a salesman I was fond of. Looking at the bill of sale was nostalgia on steroids. I couldn’t bring myself to sell it, so I enjoy ripping around town in it. The top and doors came off when I got it home, and it never went back on. My daughter Molly has a 2023 Sahara Unlimited in White. Daughter Maggie drives a Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited. There is also Jeep Liberty Sport kicking around. My son Bobby drives a Tiguan but has his eyes on a Wrangler.
The Jeep culture has been influential in my life, and it’s cool to know I’m part of a community of millions, as are my kids.
Jeep culture is a testament to the sense of community and shared experiences among Jeep owners. From the friendly Jeep Wave to the hidden Easter eggs and the heartwarming Duck-Duck-Jeep movement, these traditions create a unique and welcoming environment for Jeep enthusiasts. It’s a reminder that owning a Jeep is not just about the vehicle itself but also about being part of something bigger—a culture that celebrates kindness, adventure and connection.
The Jeep culture is rich with camaraderie, fun traditions and a sense of belonging that transcends age and geography. If you own one, you’re part of an extraordinary family.
So, the next time you see a Jeep on the road, remember to wave, look out for those hidden Easter eggs, and maybe even carry a rubber duck or two to spread joy. After all, it’s a Jeep thing.
Bob Manor is Co-Founder of Auto Auction Review and Founder of Can-Am Dealer Services. His website is BobManor.com.
