How to Drift a Jeep Grand Cherokee 75 Anniversary

how to drift a jeep grand cherokee 75 anniversary is a powerful SUV that combines off-road capabilities with high-performance handling. While drifting is often associated with sports cars, with the right techniques, you can execute a controlled drift even in this robust vehicle. In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of drifting how to drift a jeep grand cherokee 75 anniversary is a powerful SUV that combines off-road capabilities with high-performance handling. safely and effectively.
Understanding the Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition
Before attempting to drift, it’s crucial to understand the capabilities and limitations of your Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition. This model features:
- A powerful 3.6L V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
- Quadra-Trac II 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case, ideal for off-road and high-traction situations.
- Selec-Terrain Traction Control System, allowing you to adjust driving modes for different terrains.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which needs to be modified or turned off to enable drifting.
- Advanced suspension and weight distribution, making controlled slides possible with precise handling.
Now that we understand what the Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition offers, let’s get into the steps for drifting.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drifting a Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition
1. Find a Safe and Legal Location
Before attempting a drift, ensure that you are in a controlled environment such as:
- A closed racetrack or drift circuit.
- An empty parking lot with permission.
- Off-road terrain where drifting is allowed.
Never attempt drifting on public roads, as it is dangerous and illegal in most places.
2. Disable Traction and Stability Controls
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition comes with advanced traction control and stability management systems that prevent wheel slip. To enable drifting, you must turn these off:
- Press and hold the ESC button for about 5-10 seconds until you see the “ESC OFF” indicator on your dashboard.
- Disable any other driving assists that might prevent power slides.
This allows your wheels to spin more freely, making it easier to break traction and initiate a drift.
3. Choose the Right Drive Mode
The Selec-Terrain system allows for different driving modes. For drifting, the best modes are:
- Sport Mode – Adjusts throttle response and shifts at higher RPMs, giving more power to the rear wheels.
- Snow Mode – Can sometimes be used for controlled drifting on slippery surfaces.
- Sand Mode – Enables increased wheel spin, helping in loose traction environments.
4. Master the Power Slide Technique
A power slide is the foundation of drifting a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Here’s how to do it:
- Build up speed – Drive at around 25-35 mph to maintain enough momentum.
- Turn sharply – Initiate a sharp turn into a corner.
- Apply throttle aggressively – Step on the gas to break rear-wheel traction.
- Counter-steer – As the rear begins to slide, steer in the opposite direction to control the drift.
- Feather the throttle – Adjust acceleration to maintain a smooth drift.
5. Use the Handbrake to Initiate a Drift
If the power slide isn’t working, you can use the handbrake method:
- Approach a corner at moderate speed (30-40 mph).
- Turn the wheel in the desired direction.
- Pull the handbrake quickly while pressing the clutch (if using a manual transmission, though this model is typically automatic).
- Counter-steer immediately and apply throttle to sustain the drift.
This technique is particularly effective on loose or wet surfaces.
6. Weight Transfer and Throttle Control
Proper weight transfer is key to a smooth drift:
- Before a drift, lift off the accelerator slightly to shift weight to the front wheels.
- Once the drift initiates, apply smooth throttle control to maintain the slide.
- Avoid excessive braking, as this will disrupt the drift.
7. Practice and Improve Your Drifting Skills
Mastering drifting requires practice. Here are some tips:
- Start on low-traction surfaces like dirt or gravel before attempting asphalt drifts.
- Work on throttle modulation to avoid spinning out.
- Experiment with different entry speeds and angles to find the sweet spot.
- Use video recordings to analyze and improve your technique.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Drifting a Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Not disabling traction control completely – This will prevent the rear wheels from breaking loose.
- Oversteering or understeering – Proper counter-steering is crucial for control.
- Applying brakes too aggressively – Drifting requires smooth braking and acceleration.
- Using too much throttle – Excessive power can cause uncontrollable spins.
- Ignoring safety – Always wear a seatbelt and ensure you are in a controlled environment.
Final Thoughts on Drifting a Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition
While drifting an SUV like the Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition is challenging, it is possible with the right techniques. By disabling traction controls, mastering weight transfer, and practicing power slides and handbrake drifts, you can enjoy controlled slides and improve your overall driving skills.
Remember to always prioritize safety and legality, ensuring you only drift in approved areas. With consistent practice, you’ll develop better control and confidence in handling your Jeep Grand Cherokee in various driving conditions.