When the old stock dash is broken or damaged, it is time to upgrade it.
Knowing how to upgrade dash on Jeep TJ can help you save the unnecessary cost of hiring a mechanic.
Replacing the dash is so easy that anyone can do it using simple car pry tools. So, read the full article to know the right way to complete the installation.
Can You Upgrade Dash on Jeep TJ?
Yes, you can upgrade the dash on your Jeep TJ. In case it is damaged or broken anyhow, you must do it.
Otherwise, one can always replace the old one to match the custom interior remodeling. Also, having any color preference can be a valid reason.
With enough time and money, you can upgrade any part inside your car anytime. And, dashboards are no exceptions.
If you are replacing every single component in the dash, it will cost you a lot of money. But the plastic frame alone won’t make your wallet empty.
When Should You Upgrade Dash on Jeep TJ?
Actually, there are no hard and fast rules for upgrading the dash on your Jeep TJ.
If any part of it gets broken, or you want to upgrade any component, you will have to replace the old one.
Also, some owners don’t like the old looks anymore and go for a new one. No matter what the situation is, you can do it without the help of a mechanic.
How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade Dash on Jeep TJ?
As replacing an old dash on your Jeep TJ is not a big deal, I won’t be taking labor costs into my consideration.
Instead, you can buy a plastic car pry tool kit that costs around $7. Then, the average cost of a new aftermarket dash is around $80.
In total, you won’t have to spend more than 90 or 100 bucks.
I have done the calculation assuming you are going to buy the expensive one from my recommended products.
However, more damage to the main body or any other part that is necessary for the installation can increase the cost.
In that case, it would be better to take the car to a mechanic and let the professionals handle the job.
Our Top Recommendation on Jeep TJ Dash Upgrade
After going through several listings, I have seen that very few of them can fit your Jeep TJ.
Check out the 3 products I have reviewed below and you can confidently buy one of them.
1. Metra 95-6549 Double DIN
The first one is from the brand Metra which costs slightly more than the other two on the list. According to the specs, it fits Jeep Wrangler TJ built between 1997 and 2002. The package is all the necessary parts so that you can even install an aftermarket radio without any fitment issue.
2. HECASA Double Din
As long as it is a matter of fitment, HECASA Double Din Dash Bezel Radio Stereo Installation Kit is the same as the previous one. What I like is that you can get almost the same quality product spending less. You can easily put 4 speakers with power connections with this dash installed.
3. Metra 95-6541 DDIN In-Dash Kit
The last one is also from Metra, and I have included it for its compatibility range. It fits newer models of Jeep TJ. If your car is built between 2003 and 2006, you will love to use it as a replacement for the old one. Installing Metra 95-6541, you can easily house an ISO DDIN Radio. For the durable ABS plastic construction, I think that you won’t regret buying this one.
How to Upgrade Dash on Jeep TJ?
The first task is to remove the dash panel on your Jeep TJ. Then, install the new kit in a reverse manner to complete the upgrade.
- Begin the whole process by taking the long section right below the window. You can do it by using simple plastic car pry tools. Pick either end, and pull it towards you, and they will come off.
- Then, take out the little tray compartment on top of the dash. Those who have already got a phone/GPS mount should unmount it at this stage.
Tip: One should be able to do it using their fingertips. Also, be careful about the pressure clips. Too much pressure in the wrong direction can break them.
- After pulling the tray towards you, you will see that the whole dash section is coming off.
- Finally, unbox the new dash you have bought, and put it back the way you have taken the old one off; just in reverse.
Before you start doing the replacement, I want you to watch this video. It will help overcome the hesitation.
Can I Get Aluminum Dash on Jeep TJ?
The available and commonly used dashes for Jeep TJ are made of mainly plastic. I don’t want to imply that plastic is not durable enough.
Still, there is a better material that looks way stylish than plastic; I’m talking about aluminum. So, yes, you can install an aluminum dash on your Jeep TJ.
Click on this link to check out the laser-cut GenRight aluminum dash that fits any Jeep TJ and LJ model.
Owners who are trying to modify the interior and give it a custom look with a lightweight trail rig can try this one.
Besides being strong and having a tough look, the benefit of this aluminum dash is mounting gauges or GPS in any location.
The internal ducting is capable of directing air to the windshield. It is beneficial in the winter for defrosting.
Spending almost a thousand dollars on such a product seems too much. But the investment is worth every penny.
The package includes all stainless-steel hardware required for installation. As GenRight manufactures it in the US, you won’t have to worry about the quality.
Conclusion
So, that is how to upgrade dash on Jeep TJ properly.
Though the aftermarket dash kits have good quality construction and finishing, they are not up to the standard. Those who are willing to do a custom interior should talk with their local dealers to find the desired part.
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