Produced from 1983 to 2001, the Jeep Cherokee XJ was marketed as a Sportswagon, which was just the precursory term for the SUV used commonly today.

The Jeep Cherokee XJ is one of the most coveted Jeeps out there for many reasons. Firstly, its boxy, upright look paired with the square headlights seems to be extremely attractive to many Jeep fans. Disregarding its style, the mechanics and functionality can only be described as "simple". These factors result in the Jeep Cherokee XJ being adored by car and SUV fans alike.

The Jeep Cherokee XJ is widely considered to be the vehicle that started the crossover/SUV movement that swept the nation.

While the factory Cherokee is quite capable for off-roading and overlanding, adding a few modifications will significantly increase performance and reliability. The goal of this Jeep Cherokee build is to do just that, all while keeping the cost as low as humanly possible.

Lift Kits for Off-Roading

Lifting your Jeep Cherokee XJ is highly recommended for those who need a little more off-road performance. The Rugged Ridge 18415.70 Three-Inch Lift Kit With Shocks; '84-01 Jeep Cherokee XJ provides everything you need to tackle the toughest of terrains. Included in this kit are memory metal springs and nitrogen-charged, self-adjusting valving for a smooth ride on and off the road. At an extremely affordable price, this lift kit cannot be beat.

Aftermarket Axles

Certain models of the Jeep Cherokee XJ have axles that are undesirable for adventurers. Owners can swap them with the Yukon Gear and Axle YA W24160 Front Axle Kit With 30 Spline Axles to make sure they work when you need them to. Included in this axle kit are inner and outer 4340 Chromoly axles and Yukon Super Joints, which received the latest in heat-treating technologies.

Armor for Jeep Exteriors

If you are planning to take your Jeep Cherokee XJ on the rocks, you must prepare accordingly. The XRC Rear Bumper With Hitch and Tire Carrier, Black Textured Smittybilt 76851 will ensure that your rear is covered while also containing a tire carrier and tow hitch. This rear bumper also provides winch mounting capabilities for those who mount their winches in the rear.

Regarding the front, the Rough Country 10570 Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU Front Winch Bumper lends a menacing look while providing tons of tire clearance. Additionally, its recessed winch mounting plate will protect your winch and line from damage. Cherokee owners who want front roll protection can attach the Rough Country 1055 Jeep Cherokee/Wrangler JK/JKU Bumper Stinger Bar to this bumper, which also adds additional style points to your Jeep Cherokee XJ.

It is always important to protect your gas tank, which is why throwing in a Crown Automotive 52001175 Jeep Cherokee Gas Tank Reinforcement is highly recommended.

It is also very important to be able to see during inclement weather. The Rugged Ridge 11351.20 Jeep Cherokee Window Rain Deflectors will allow for airflow while deflecting rain away from the window opening. These easy to install acrylic deflectors also will reduce wind noise.

Winches

When mounted to the Rough Country front bumper, the WARN 26502 M8000 Self-Recovery Winch will ensure that your precious Jeep Cherokee XJ does not get stuck in the mud, rocks or sand. This winch is built for competitions, offering a pulling capacity of up to 9000 pounds.

Overlanding

Those thinking of taking their Jeep Cherokee XJ overlanding will need to be sufficiently prepared. The Rightline Gear 100R20 Range 2 Car Top Carrier is an weatherproof carrier that can be attached to your Cherokee with or without a roof rack.

TOTAL PRICE: $4000 to $4500​

Jeep Cherokee XJ Build Conclusion

This budget build will ensure that your beloved Jeep Cherokee XJ is prepared for the most treacherous terrain imaginable.

With a total price of around $4250, this build will prepare your Jeep Cherokee XJ for any scenario that you may force upon it. This build is wonderful for those on a budget, as they are receiving a significant performance boost for an affordable price.

If you aren't a fan of one or more of the parts listed above, don't worry! Jeeps Are Life provides hundreds of other Jeep Cherokee XJ parts that can easily be swapped out.

To inquire about substitute parts, customers can use the messaging system located at the bottom right of our online store, or give us a call at 920-541-2676. We would be glad to help you make your Jeep truly yours!

Jeeps Are Life customers will be happy to find out that we try our best to offer the lowest prices on the fantastic products that we sell. If the customer can find a lower price we can't beat, we are more than willing to work with them to reach their goal.