Jeep Cherokee Forum

Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: Interior Modification

Interior modifications can give your car a much needed upgrade when it comes to appearance and functionality. There are several different potential modifications to consider. Continue reading to find out what they are.

By Kate Halse - September 4, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001).

Whether you've had your Jeep Cherokee for a few months or several years, interior modifications can be a great way to enhance the appearance of your car's interior according to your personal preference. Some interior modification projects are quite basic and inexpensive, while others are a bit more time-consuming and costly. Aside from price, you may also want to consider whether you simply want to prove the aesthetics of your car's interior or opt for a modification that adds a bit of practicality and functionality to the inside of your XJ. Here's an overview of some modifications to consider for your Jeep.

Create More Storage Space

DIY Cost – $3

Professional Cost – $40-100

Skill Level – Easy to moderate; it involves removing the back seat.

If you find yourself needing more storage space than extra seats for passengers, this is an optimal interior modification. You'll need to remove the entire back seat to create enough room for your new storage solution. Some owners prefer to turn the space into one that's full of boxes and drawers, while others simply prefer to leave it for future storage demands. Recommended for drivers who want extra space in the back and do not require passenger seats.

Install Cup Holders

DIY Cost – $5-25

Professional Cost – $25-50

Skill Level – Easy; no special tools or knowledge is required.

Many XJ owners complain about the lack of cup holders. Fortunately, the solution is quite simple and inexpensive. Most drivers choose their preferred cup holder, and then install it in a convenient location. Aside from the traditional plastic holders from the dealership, a standard bike water bottle also works very well. Recommended for drivers who want a cheap solution to extra cup holders.

Install Power Inverter With Outlets

DIY Cost – $100-200+

Professional Cost – $160-350

Skill Level – Moderate; requires some drilling for installation.

You can easily install a 1,000 watt power inverter and accompanying outlets into the rear cargo area and underneath the passenger's seat. Having this extra power allows you to plug in and use everything from work lights to drills and other pieces of technology or equipment. Using an extension cord ensures even more range extension. Recommended for drivers who want watt power for their equipment.

Replace Headliner

DIY Cost – $40-60

Professional Cost – $180+

Skill Level – Easy; no special tools are needed.

Whether your Jeep's headliner is sagging or you just want something different for the interior, a new headliner is a great choice. To install the new headliner, simply disconnect anything that's connected to the ceiling, then slide the current headliner out and replace it with the new one. One word of caution is to check for any leaks that could damage the new headliner once it's installed. A few XJ owners note that water damage can quickly destroy the headliner, a potentially costly and time-consuming problem. Recommended for drivers who want to change the appearance of their headliner.

(Related Article: How to Replace Headliner - CherokeeForum.com)

Convert Existing Bulbs to LEDs

DIY Cost – $20-50

Professional Cost – $100-300

Skill Level – Easy; it is a simple bulb replacement.

Interior lights can start to look a bit dull over time, especially in older cars. Whether you're looking for a bit of extra visibility or you just want to change up your Jeep's interior, converting the existing bulbs to brighter and more efficient LED lights is a great choice. You can stick with traditional white lights or opt for a colorful mix of bulbs. Recommended for drivers who want to a quick and easy modification.

Install a Navigation/Media Screen

DIY Cost – $80-200

Professional Cost – $200-600

Skill Level – Moderate; requires some electrical experience.

Installing a new media or navigation screen can instantly upgrade your Jeep's interior. These screens can provide everything from navigation to a convenient menu for your phone or other devices. Depending on your budget, you can find smaller and less expensive screens, or larger (but pricier) options. Recommended for drivers who want to upgrade their stock interior.

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