You’ve seen it happen. Two drivers, both behind the wheel of a Jeep Cherokee or other Jeep model, pass each other on the street. Without thought or plan, they wave at each other. Maybe they’re old friends, or maybe they wave at everyone they pass. Then you notice one of them has an out-of-state license plate, and neither wave to anyone else on the road. What you experienced is something that only takes place when members of the exclusive Jeep owner’s club pass each other: the Jeep Wave.

Years later, you purchase your first Jeep. You’re driving around in your Jeep Cherokee or Gladiator and realize that you’re part of the club. Your only worry is that the Jeep dealer didn’t provide you with any instructions on how to appropriately master the Jeep wave. Since you don’t want to mess up this almost secret handshake, you decided to do your research and get it right.

You’re in the right spot. Here’s what you need to know about mastering the Jeep wave.

The History of the Wave

The actual work “Jeep” was originally used as a slang word describing new Army recruits. In the 1940s, however, a new vehicle went into production to be used during the second world war. This light 4×4 became the go-to vehicle for the allied forces.

Many people saw the Jeep as the personification of American ingenuity and a “can-do” attitude. The Jeep wave became commonplace during the way as allied forces acknowledged this attitude whenever they crossed paths.

From there, this vehicle only grew in popularity and eventually hit the mainstream road. Jeep currently makes a variety of stellar vehicles. From the off-road capable Jeep Wrangler to the family and adventure-friendly Jeep Cherokee, Jeeps rule the roadway.

The Jeep wave continues to acknowledge the can-do attitude of Jeep drivers. Moreover, the wave symbolizes the connection of the brothers and sisters who hit the road in these incredible marvels of innovation.

Follow The Rules

While the Jeep wave was typically only used for those drivers who owned the CJ, YJ, TJ, and JK models, it’s grown to include all versions of this popular vehicle. The rules are pretty simple: every Jeep driver is responsible for doing their part.

If another Jeep driver waves at you while you’re in your Jeep, you must return the wave. If you see another driver behind the wheel of a Jeep, feel free to initiate the wave. Anyone driving a Jeep can participate, even if the vehicle in question is rented or borrowed. While you may see other vehicle owners trying to replicate this wave, the rules forbid you from offering a Jeep wave to them, even if they attempt to wave at your first. A normal wave is appropriate if you wish to offer a greeting. It’s an honor to participate in the sacred Jeep wave tradition; your job is to keep it that way.

Jeep Wave Mechanics

You’ll find that the proper Jeep wave is as versatile as the Jeep you’re driving. That means you can wave in a variety of ways:

– Side-to-side motion with either one or both hands
– A quick show of your palm
– Raised hand from the steering wheel, raising one to four fingers (often accompanied by a nod)
– A raised hand from an arm rested outside of the window
– A raised hand through the removed top

Keep in mind that pointing two fingers down at the road is not a Jeep wave. This is a time-honored greeting used by motorcyclists as a reminder to keep two wheels on the road. They respect the Jeep wave, so you should always respect their wave.

Share the Love with a Jeep Wave Today

Now that you understand the history and mechanics of the Jeep wave, you can hit the road in your Jeep Cherokee, Compass, or Wrangler with confidence. If you don’t drive a Jeep but want to be part of this exclusive, joy-sharing club, stop by your local Jeep dealer and explore your options. When you test drive your next Jeep, feel free to test drive your new Jeep wave as well.