The factory rear corners on a Jeep JKU take a beating on the trail and quickly become a limitation when running larger tires. The factory sheet metal offers very little protection, and the stock tail light placement leaves the lights exposed to rocks, ledges, and trail obstacles.
Builders often trim or modify the rear corners for additional tire clearance, but without proper armor, the body is left vulnerable and the finished result lacks strength. The Motobilt MB1139 Rear Corner Armor is designed specifically for stock wheelbase Jeep JKU builds, replacing the factory sheet metal with 3/16-inch steel while maintaining clean body lines and factory tailgate functionality.
Unlike the drop tailgate version, the MB1139 retains the factory swing-out tailgate hinge cutouts, making it the correct choice for builders who continue to use the factory rear tailgate. The reinforced steel construction provides significantly more protection for the rear corners while standing up to the abuse of rock crawling and aggressive trail use.
Each corner features an integrated recessed tail light housing designed around the Motobilt MB6504 5-inch round LED tail lights. Below the main tail light, a dedicated pocket houses a Baja Designs S1 light for auxiliary reverse lighting, improving visibility while backing up on the trail or around camp.
An aluminum trim ring surrounds each tail light and can be painted or finished to complement the rest of the build. The result is a clean, functional rear corner that improves protection, modernizes the lighting system, and maintains compatibility with the factory swing-out tailgate.
Like all Motobilt products, the MB1139 Rear Corner Armor was designed by builders who understand Jeep JKU packaging, fabrication, and the demands of serious off-road use.
Important Information
- Designed for Jeep Wrangler JKU 4 Door
- Constructed from 3/16-inch steel
- Designed for stock wheelbase applications
- Retains factory swing-out tailgate hinge cutouts
- Direct replacement style rear corner armor
- Includes integrated recessed tail light housings
- Includes Motobilt MB6504 5-inch round LED tail lights
- Includes Baja Designs S1 auxiliary reverse lights
- Includes aluminum tail light trim rings
- Made in the USA
Product Specifications
Vehicle Fitment
2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JKU 4 Door
Part Number
MB1139
Material
3/16-inch Steel
Dimensions
16.6" H x 9.5" W x 53.8" D
Weight
56.75 lbs
Manufactured
Made in the USA
Installation Notes
- Requires cutting of the factory rear corners.
- Designed for stock wheelbase Jeep JKU applications.
- Test fit all components before final welding, painting, or installation.
- The included 5-inch round tail lights feature a plug-and-play reverse light connection.
- Baja Designs S1 auxiliary lights include a wiring harness and must be wired independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do rear corner guards do on a Jeep JKU?
They replace the factory rear sheet metal with 3/16-inch steel to better protect the body from rocks, trail obstacles, and off-road impacts while providing a stronger foundation for upgraded lighting.
Will these work with the factory tailgate?
Yes. The MB1139 retains the factory swing-out tailgate hinge cutouts, allowing you to continue using the factory tailgate.
What fender flares work with these corners?
The Motobilt Crusher and Hatchet Series rear flares are both compatible with these rear corners.
Do the tail lights require additional wiring?
The included Motobilt MB6504 5-inch round tail lights feature a plug-and-play connection with an integrated reverse light. The Baja Designs S1 auxiliary reverse lights include their own wiring harness and must be wired to a separate switch or circuit.
Do I have to cut the Jeep to install these?
Yes. Installation requires cutting the factory rear corners before fitting the new armor.
Are these designed for a stock wheelbase Jeep JKU?
Yes. The MB1139 is designed specifically for stock wheelbase 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JKU models. Stretch applications require rear corners designed for the modified body length.
What is the difference between the MB1139 and MB1139-T?
The MB1139 retains the factory tailgate hinge cutouts for use with the factory swing-out tailgate. The MB1139-T eliminates those cutouts for builders running a drop tailgate, creating a cleaner uninterrupted body line.
