Aftermarket 4WD Grab Handles: What to Know Before You Buy
Aftermarket 4WD grab handles give you a stronger, more comfortable place to hold while getting into your rigs
They also let you add colour and a custom finish to your 4WD interior.
Before ordering a set, you need to check the mounting style, measure the distance between the screw holes and choose a handle made for regular 4WD use.
What Are Aftermarket 4WD Grab Handles?
Aftermarket 4WD grab handles replace or upgrade the standard handles fitted inside your vehicle.
Most aftermarket handles mount above the doors, along the roof lining or onto other suitable factory mounting points.
Paracord grab handles offer a flexible grip that feels more comfortable in your hand than hard plastic. They also suit a wide range of interior colours and 4WD builds.
Why Upgrade Your Factory Grab Handles?
Factory handles do the job, but many 4WD owners want something more comfortable and better suited to their setup.
Aftermarket grab handles offer:
- A comfortable grip for your hands
- Extra support when entering and leaving a lifted 4WD
- A custom colour combination
- A handmade finish
- Replacement options for worn or damaged handles
- A cleaner look across the vehicle interior
They are also useful for passengers who need a secure place to hold while travelling over corrugations, washouts and uneven ground.
Why Paracord Works Well for 4WD Grab Handles
Krawlergrips handles are handmade using genuine Commeriacla Type III 550 nylon paracord.
This paracord has a 4 mm outer diameter and seven inner strands. The braided construction creates a comfortable handle with enough flexibility to move with your hand.
Nylon paracord is:
- Lightweight
- Mildew resistant
- Resistant to rotting
- Easy to clean
- Available in a wide range of colours
- Suitable for custom braiding patterns
Each Krawlergrip is braided by hand in Brisbane, Australia.
Check Your Mounting Style Before Ordering
This is the most important step.
Krawlergrips fit mounting points secured with screws. They do not directly fit clip in factory handles.
Remove or inspect your existing handle before ordering. Check whether you see screws under the handle covers.
Some clip in vehicles need nut inserts or other modifications. These changes do not guarantee fitment. Speak with a qualified installer if you are unsure about modifying your vehicle.
Always check your vehicle before placing an order.
How to Measure for Aftermarket Grab Handles
Correct measurements help the handle sit neatly and leave enough room for your hand.
Measure from the centre of one mounting hole to the centre of the other mounting hole. Then add around 3 to 5 cm for hand clearance.
For example:
If the mounting holes measure 18 cm from centre to centre, a handle around 21 cm long gives your hand extra room.
Common Krawlergrips sizes include:
- 18 cm cargo drawer handles
- 21 cm interior grab handles
- Custom lengths for different mounting positions
Measure every location. Front, rear and cargo mounting points sometimes have different spacing.
Where Do Aftermarket 4WD Grab Handles Fit?
Depending on your vehicle and mounting points, grab handles are often installed:
- Above the driver or passenger door
- Above the rear doors
- On the A-pillar
- Near cargo areas
- On drawer systems
- Inside canopies
- On suitable overhead mounting points
Only install a handle where suitable mounting points already exist or where a qualified installer has approved the installation.
Choosing the Right Colour
Aftermarket 4WD grab handles give you the freedom to match your interior, exterior paint, seat covers or other accessories.
Popular combinations include:
- All black
- Black and red
- Charcoal grey and black
- Grey and hot pink
- Burnt orange and black
- Red, white and black
- Custom two-colour combinations
Dark colours often hide dirt better. Neon and bright colours stand out more, but prolonged sun exposure might cause faster fading.
Are Mounting Washers Included?
Krawlergrips are sold individually.
Two handles make one pair.
Dress washers and mounting hardware are sold separately. Check the product listing before ordering so you know exactly what your purchase includes.
Your existing factory screws might suit the installation. Fitment differs between vehicles, so check the screw size and mounting point first.
How to Clean Paracord Grab Handles
Regular cleaning keeps your handles looking fresh.
Follow these steps:
- Mix warm water with a small amount of mild soap.
- Gently scrub the paracord with a soft brush.
- Rinse away all soap.
- Leave the handle to air dry fully in the shade.
Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals, hot water, dryers and direct heat. Remove any hardware before washing where practical.
Are Aftermarket Grab Handles Suitable for Every 4WD?
No. Fitment depends on your vehicle’s mounting system.
They are a good option when your 4WD has suitable screw-mounted handles or approved mounting points.
Before buying, check:
- Whether the existing handle uses screws or clips
- The centre-to-centre hole measurement
- The required handle length
- Screw and washer sizes
- Roof lining clearance
- Airbags near the proposed mounting area
Do not interfere with curtain airbags, wiring or safety equipment. Ask a qualified installer for help when the mounting area is unclear.
Why Choose Krawlergrips?
Krawlergrips are made for 4WD owners who want a comfortable grip and a custom interior finish.
Each handle is:
- Handmade in Brisbane, Australia
- Made using genuine Type III 550 nylon paracord
- Available in a wide range of colours
- Made to order
- Available in standard and custom lengths
- Built by a fellow 4WDer
You choose the colour and size to suit your vehicle.
Find the Right Grab Handles for Your 4WD
Measure your mounting points, check for screws and choose your colours.
Krawlergrips aftermarket 4WD grab handles give your vehicle a practical upgrade with a finish made to suit your build
What 4WD Brands Can Use Aftermarket Grab Handles?
Krawlergrips suit many popular 4WD brands, including:
-
Toyota
-
Nissan
-
Ford
-
Isuzu
-
Mitsubishi
-
Mazda
-
Holden
-
Jeep
-
Suzuki
-
GWM
-
LDV some may have clips
This includes popular rigs such as the Toyota LandCruiser, Prado and HiLux, Nissan Patrol and Navara, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-MAX and MU-X, Mitsubishi Triton and Pajero, Mazda BT-50, Holden Colorado, Jeep Wrangler and Suzuki Jimny.
The make and model alone do not confirm fitment. Some models use screws, while others use clip-in handles. Mounting styles also differ between model years.
Check your existing handles and measure the mounting holes before ordering. If your handles use screws, Krawlergrips might fit using the existing mounting points.