Which Freedom Panel Goes On First? The Simple Jeep Reinstall Order

TL;DR: In most Wrangler and Gladiator hardtop setups, you reinstall the passenger-side Freedom Panel first, then the driver-side panel. That order helps the overlap and seals sit correctly so the latches close smoothly. If you want a deeper baseline on Freedom Panels, issues, and replacements, start here: Freedom Panels Guide.

Quick answer

Passenger side first. Driver side second.
Removal is usually the reverse: driver off first, then passenger.

Why the order matters

Freedom Panels are designed to seat and overlap in a specific way at the center seam and at the header. If you install them out of order, you can end up with:

• A panel that looks “down” on one corner

• Latches that feel tight or won’t rotate easily

• A seal that pinches or rolls, leading to wind noise or moisture

The correct order makes everything line up with less force.

How to tell which one is passenger vs driver

If you’re staring at two panels on the ground and second-guessing yourself:

• The passenger panel is the one that naturally sits on the right side of the Jeep when you face forward from the driver seat.

• The driver panel sits on the left side.

Tip: Many storage bags and dividers are shaped to help you keep the panels oriented.

Step-by-step: reinstalling Freedom Panels the easy way

1) Clean first

Before panels touch anything:

• Wipe the seals and mating surfaces

• Knock off dust and grit

This prevents scratches and helps the gasket seat evenly.

2) Set the passenger panel in place first

• Place it down gently onto the windshield header area

• Make sure it’s seated evenly along the edges

• Confirm the rear locating points are aligned before you latch anything

3) Set the driver panel second

• Drop it in so it mates cleanly at the center seam

• Check that the seam looks even and nothing is “riding up”

4) Latch in a consistent pattern

A simple approach:

• Close the header latches first

• Then close the remaining latches

If something feels forced, stop and re-seat the panel. You should not have to muscle it.

5) Final fit check

• Look at the seam and corners for even contact

• Open and close the doors to make sure nothing is sitting proud near the frames

• If you have hand screws on your setup, snug them gently. Over-tightening can pull the panel in a weird way instead of improving the seal

Common mistakes that cause leaks or rattles

Installing out of order

This can create a small misalignment at the center seam that snowballs into latch and seal issues.

Tightening before seating

If you latch while a corner is slightly high, you can pinch or roll a seal.

Ignoring grit

Most “mystery” fit issues come down to dust or debris on the seal surfaces.

When ClearLidz is the simpler option

If you’re constantly removing, reinstalling, and storing panels just to get more light, it can get old fast. ClearLidz replaces the front Freedom Panel area with a panoramic clear solution so you can keep the bright, open feel without the constant panel routine.

FAQs

Is it always passenger side first?
That’s the most common order for Wrangler and Gladiator Freedom Panels. If your specific top has markings or a diagram, follow that, but passenger-then-driver is the usual rule.

What if my latches are hard to close?
Stop and re-seat the panel. Hard latches usually mean misalignment or a pinched seal, not “needs more force.”

Can I install them without cleaning the seals?
You can, but it’s the easiest way to trap grit, cause tiny fit issues, and slowly scuff the surfaces over time.

Which panel comes off first?
Most people remove the driver-side panel first, then the passenger panel.

Do I need to crank down the hand screws?
No. Snug is enough. Over-tightening can create uneven seating.

Want the light without the panel routine?

If you want daily clarity up front without constantly reinstalling panels, ClearLidz is built for Wrangler life. Shop the JL panoramic top!