If you're bombing around in a TJ Wrangler, you're probably not the type of person who needs to be bathed in luxury. We have nothing but love for the TJ, but "luxurious" isn't a word we – or anyone else – would use to describe one. That word is reserved for new JKUs with Amaretto leather and other premium features.
The TJ, however, is rugged, practical, and capable of taking you anywhere you want. Taking your trusty ol’ TJ out for a spin always means embarking on an adventure. You can’t get that kind of thrill with any other car.
Just because you’re driving an older Jeep doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the modern features that come with newer Jeeps. Amping up your TJ’s luxury factor is easier than you think. All you have to do is to treat it to a makeover that will have it feeling like it just rolled off the production line.
Not your ordinary grocery getter, via DerFriedberger
The following five tried-and-true upgrades will do the trick:
1. A Professional Detail
Nothing makes an older car feel new like a good, thorough cleaning from top to bottom. Toss in a quality wax and polish, and your old TJ is going to look like a million bucks… at least until your next off-road adventure.
2. New Carpet
Not only is new carpet incredibly affordable, but it also drastically transforms the way a TJ’s interior looks.
While you can go with a spray-on liner instead of new carpet, a lot of TJ owners find the liner to be louder, hotter, and a heck of a lot more expensive than the carpet it replaces.
We suggest going with carpet that includes jute backing, such as Rugged Ridge's replacement carpet. It’s a bit more expensive than regular carpet, but it’s more durable and efficient in reducing cabin noise.
3. LED Lighting
LED lights are a massive upgrade from Jeep's standard halogen lighting because they shine brighter and last much longer. By installing an LED light bar or LED fog lights to your TJ, you'll add a modern flair to your TJ's appearance and catapult it ahead of some of the newest Wranglers prowling the streets. In fact, you may even catch brand new Wrangler owners staring longingly at your TJ.
4. Neoprene Seat Covers
Like a carpet upgrade, a new set of seat covers can really transform the look of your Jeep’s interior. If you’re in the market for a practical set, Neoprene is the way to go.
Neoprene seat covers are an off-roader’s dream come true. They’re waterproof, extremely durable, and comfortable. They’re a popular option for Jeeps everywhere, as they stand up to all kinds of abuse while looking great.
5. A Tuffy Underseat Drawer
Photo credit: Tuffy Security Products
Tuffy's underseat drawer is a cool storage system that solves one of the biggest problems TJ owners face: limited space. You can free some room in your off-road machine by moving some of your gear into a drawer. That means your trusty ol’ TJ can carry more passengers or gear.
Installation is tricky, but the end result is worth it.
Once you treat your TJ to the above upgrades, share before and after pictures with us on Facebook. We’d love to see them!