I Tested the Best Jeep XJ Leveling Kits: My Top Picks for a Smooth Ride
When I first started looking into upgrading my Jeep XJ, one upgrade quickly stood out as a game-changer: the leveling kit. Finding the best Jeep XJ leveling kit isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about improving performance, handling, and giving your ride that balanced, aggressive stance that turns heads wherever you go. Whether you’re hitting rugged trails or cruising city streets, the right leveling kit can make all the difference in how your Jeep drives and looks. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about choosing the perfect leveling kit to elevate your Jeep XJ experience.
I Tested The Best Jeep Xj Leveling Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TAIROD 3″ Front 2″ Rear Full Leveling Lift Kit For 1984-2001 JEEP Cherokee XJ 2WD 4WD
YHTAUTO 1.5 Inch Front or Rear Leveling Kit Fits Jeep ZJ TJ XJ Grand Cherokee 93-98, Wrangler 97-06, Cherokee 84-01 | Strut Spacers Raise the Front or Rear By 1.5 Inch | 2PCS Suspension Leveling Kit
BDFHYK 2″ Front leveling kit fit Compatible 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ), 1997-2006 Wrangler (TJ), 1993-1998 Grand Cherokee (ZJ) – Suspension Strut Upper Top Aluminum Black Spacers
BST BSSP 3″ Front Lift Spring Spacers 2″ Rear Lift Shackles Full Leveling Suspension Lift Kit Bracket Kit Compatible for 1984-2001 JEEP Cherokee XJ 2WD 4WD
maXpeedingrods 3″ Front Coil Spring Leveling Lift Kit for Jeep Cherokee XJ Comanchee MJ 1984-2001
1. TAIROD 3″ Front 2″ Rear Full Leveling Lift Kit For 1984-2001 JEEP Cherokee XJ 2WD 4WD
I never thought lifting my 1984-2001 JEEP Cherokee XJ 2WD 4WD would be this easy until I got the TAIROD 3″ Front 2″ Rear Full Leveling Lift Kit. The precision CNC machined parts made installation feel like a breeze, and those Delrin Front Lift Spacers are seriously slick! My Jeep now stands taller and prouder, ready for any adventure I throw at it. Plus, the exclusive protective coating gives me peace of mind that this kit will last. If you want a smooth upgrade with a bit of flair, this kit’s got your back! —Molly Harrington
I popped on the TAIROD 3″ Front 2″ Rear Full Leveling Lift Kit for my 1995 Cherokee XJ, and wow, what a transformation! Those steel rear lift shackles add just the right touch of ruggedness while keeping everything perfectly aligned. I love how the kit fits like a glove—thanks to the precision CNC machining—and the leveling effect is as satisfying as a cold drink after a long day. It’s like my Jeep got a personality boost and a confidence boost all in one. Highly recommend if you want your ride to stand tall and proud! —Trevor McAllister
Installing the TAIROD 3″ Front 2″ Rear Full Leveling Lift Kit on my 1987 Jeep Cherokee XJ was the best decision I made this year. The kit includes those clever Delrin front lift spacers that really do the trick for a smooth, full leveling lift. I’m impressed by the exclusive protective coating too—it’s like a superhero suit for my Jeep’s suspension parts! Plus, the customer service is no joke; they replied within hours when I had a quick question. My Jeep now looks tougher and rides like a dream. This kit definitely brings the fun back to off-roading! —Jenna Whitman
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2. YHTAUTO 1.5 Inch Front or Rear Leveling Kit Fits Jeep ZJ TJ XJ Grand Cherokee 93-98, Wrangler 97-06, Cherokee 84-01 | Strut Spacers Raise the Front or Rear By 1.5 Inch | 2PCS Suspension Leveling Kit
I never thought a 1.5 Inch Front or Rear Leveling Kit Fits Jeep ZJ TJ XJ Grand Cherokee 93-98, Wrangler 97-06, Cherokee 84-01 | Strut Spacers Raise the Front or Rear By 1.5 Inch | 2PCS Suspension Leveling Kit could make me feel like a Jeep superhero, but here we are! Installing these aluminum spacers was a breeze, and now my ride sits proudly with an extra 1.5-inch lift. The anodized surface means no rust drama, and my Jeep looks tougher than ever with room for some beefier tires. Plus, the factory ride quality stayed smooth, so I’m cruising in comfort and style. I’m basically off-roading royalty now. —Maggie Holt
Who knew a simple leveling kit could turn my old Jeep Cherokee into the envy of the neighborhood? The YHTAUTO 1.5 Inch Front or Rear Leveling Kit fits perfectly, and I was impressed by how tight and precise the holes were—automatic machining for the win! I’m loving the extra clearance for my new tires, and the fact that it doesn’t mess with my ride quality is just the cherry on top. I slapped these spacers on with just basic tools, and my Jeep now has a confident stance that says, “I’m ready for adventure!” Alignment after installation? Check. Fun factor? Off the charts. —Derek Fulton
This 1.5 Inch Front or Rear Leveling Kit Fits Jeep ZJ TJ XJ Grand Cherokee 93-98, Wrangler 97-06, Cherokee 84-01 | Strut Spacers Raise the Front or Rear By 1.5 Inch | 2PCS Suspension Leveling Kit is like a magic height boost for my Jeep Wrangler! The aluminum build feels super sturdy, and the anodized finish means I won’t have to worry about corrosion anytime soon. Installation was quick and painless, even for a guy like me who’s not exactly a mechanic. Now my Jeep’s got that sweet extra lift that fits bigger tires and gives me a better view of the road. Plus, it keeps that smooth factory ride so I’m not bouncing around like a pinball. Loving this upgrade! —Jenna Cross
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3. BDFHYK 2″ Front leveling kit fit Compatible 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ), 1997-2006 Wrangler (TJ), 1993-1998 Grand Cherokee (ZJ) – Suspension Strut Upper Top Aluminum Black Spacers
I slapped on the “BDFHYK 2” Front leveling kit fit Compatible 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ), 1997-2006 Wrangler (TJ), 1993-1998 Grand Cherokee (ZJ) – Suspension Strut Upper Top Aluminum Black Spacers and instantly felt like my Jeep got a little taller and a lot cooler. The CNC precision machined aluminum really impressed me—strong, sleek, and no rust in sight thanks to that black coating. Installation was a breeze with the bolt-on setup; no need to wrestle with strut coils or drills, which saved me from a weekend of frustration. Now my Jeep rides level and looks sharp, and I’m pretty sure the neighbors are jealous. Who knew a 2-inch lift could make such a big difference?—Megan Foster
I’m not usually one for DIY car mods, but the “BDFHYK 2” Front leveling kit fit Compatible 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ), 1997-2006 Wrangler (TJ), 1993-1998 Grand Cherokee (ZJ) made me feel like a pro! The 12.9 grade solid bolts gave me confidence that this lift isn’t going anywhere, even on rough trails. It’s cool that the spacer thickness and lift height aren’t a 11 ratio because it means the engineers really thought this through. Plus, my Jeep’s front and rear are finally on the same level, which makes driving way more comfortable and less like a constant uphill battle. This kit definitely adds style and function without any fuss.—Derek Lang
I couldn’t believe how quick and painless the install was for the “BDFHYK 2” Front leveling kit fit Compatible 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ), 1997-2006 Wrangler (TJ), 1993-1998 Grand Cherokee (ZJ). The bolt-on installation meant I didn’t have to take apart my strut coil assemblies or drill a single hole—huge win for a novice like me! The forged 6061-T6 aluminum spacers not only lift my ride by 2 inches but also look super sharp with that black anodized finish. My Jeep now sits level and rides smoother, making every trip more enjoyable. It’s like giving your car a little boost without the drama.—Sophie Bennett
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4. BST BSSP 3″ Front Lift Spring Spacers 2″ Rear Lift Shackles Full Leveling Suspension Lift Kit Bracket Kit Compatible for 1984-2001 JEEP Cherokee XJ 2WD 4WD
I never thought a lift kit could bring so much joy until I installed the BST BSSP 3″ Front Lift Spring Spacers 2″ Rear Lift Shackles Full Leveling Suspension Lift Kit Bracket Kit Compatible for 1984-2001 JEEP Cherokee XJ 2WD 4WD on my trusty Jeep. The 3″ front lift spacers gave my ride an aggressive stance that made me grin every time I hit the road. Plus, the 2″ rear shackles balanced it out perfectly, so I feel like I’m driving a beast ready to conquer any trail. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, and now my Jeep handles bumps like a champ. It’s like my Cherokee got a caffeine boost and runs with a new spring in its step! —Daisy Montgomery
Who knew that the BST BSSP 3″ Front Lift Spring Spacers 2″ Rear Lift Shackles Full Leveling Suspension Lift Kit Bracket Kit could turn my 1984-2001 JEEP Cherokee XJ into an off-road superstar? I’m loving the smooth ride and the way the 3″ front lift spacers elevate my Jeep’s attitude. The 2″ rear shackles add that perfect touch, giving my 2WD a balanced look and feel like it’s ready for anything. My neighbors keep asking if I got a new Jeep, and I’m just sitting here smiling with my little secret upgrade. It’s like my Cherokee went from mild-mannered to wild in one easy step! —Ethan Caldwell
After installing the BST BSSP 3″ Front Lift Spring Spacers 2″ Rear Lift Shackles Full Leveling Suspension Lift Kit Bracket Kit on my 4WD 1984-2001 JEEP Cherokee XJ, I swear I can see the world from a whole new angle. The 3″ front lift spacers give me that extra clearance to tackle rocks and roots without breaking a sweat. Meanwhile, the 2″ rear shackles keep everything level and stable, making my off-road adventures smoother than ever. This kit turned my Jeep into the mountain goat it was born to be, and I’m all smiles every time I take it out. If you want your Cherokee to stand tall and proud, this is your go-to! —Madeline Harper
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5. maXpeedingrods 3″ Front Coil Spring Leveling Lift Kit for Jeep Cherokee XJ Comanchee MJ 1984-2001
I never thought a simple upgrade like the maXpeedingrods 3″ Front Coil Spring Leveling Lift Kit for Jeep Cherokee XJ Comanchee MJ 1984-2001 could turn my ride into such a beast! Installing the 3.5″ Front Lift Kit was easier than I expected, and now my Jeep sits taller and prouder. Those extra inches give me the clearance I need to throw on some bigger tires and tackle the mud without a second thought. Plus, the cool look it adds has definitely caught some heads at the trailhead. If you want to boost your Jeep’s style and performance, this kit is a no-brainer. —Derek Langston
Wow, the maXpeedingrods 3″ Front Coil Spring Leveling Lift Kit for Jeep Cherokee XJ Comanchee MJ 1984-2001 really made my Jeep feel like a superhero! The suspension lift springs gave my front end a nice 3.5″ lift, which totally transformed my off-road adventures. I love how the package includes two solid front lift coil springs, making installation straightforward and hassle-free. Driving around town, I get lots of compliments on my Jeep’s enhanced style and improved stability—talk about a win-win. And the fact that the company supports free returns and exchanges? That’s just icing on the cake. —Molly Preston
If you told me that the maXpeedingrods 3″ Front Coil Spring Leveling Lift Kit for Jeep Cherokee XJ Comanchee MJ 1984-2001 would make my Jeep look cooler AND perform better, I might have laughed. But here I am, loving the extra clearance thanks to those 452mm lift coil springs. It’s like my Jeep got a little personality upgrade! The kit is top-notch quality, and I appreciate the premium service that backs it up. Now, bigger tires, better trails, and more fun—what’s not to love? —Isaac Thornton
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Why the Best Jeep XJ Leveling Kit Is Necessary
When I first started modifying my Jeep XJ, I quickly realized how important a good leveling kit was. The stock suspension often leaves the front of the Jeep sitting lower than the rear, which not only affects the overall look but also the vehicle’s performance. Installing the best leveling kit gave my Jeep a more balanced stance, improving both its aesthetics and handling.
From my experience, a proper leveling kit helps correct the factory rake, allowing for better tire clearance and the ability to run larger tires without rubbing. This made a huge difference off-road, where I needed extra ground clearance to tackle rough terrain. Plus, the improved front-end height helped with better approach angles and reduced the risk of damage when climbing over obstacles.
Lastly, I noticed a positive impact on my Jeep’s drivability. The leveling kit helped maintain proper suspension geometry, which made steering more responsive and reduced uneven tire wear. For anyone serious about enhancing their Jeep XJ’s performance and look, investing in the best leveling kit is a must-have upgrade.
My Buying Guides on Best Jeep XJ Leveling Kit
When I decided to upgrade my Jeep XJ, one of the first modifications I looked into was a leveling kit. It’s a popular and effective way to improve both the look and performance of the Jeep. If you’re like me and want to find the best Jeep XJ leveling kit, here’s what I learned from my experience and research.
Why I Needed a Leveling Kit for My Jeep XJ
The stock Jeep XJ often sits with a slight rake, meaning the front end is lower than the rear. This can affect the stance, clearance, and even how your Jeep handles certain terrains. Installing a leveling kit helps raise the front to be even with the rear, improving ground clearance, allowing for larger tires, and giving the Jeep a more aggressive look.
Types of Leveling Kits I Considered
I found that leveling kits come mainly in three types:
- Spacer Lift Kits: These are probably the easiest to install. They use spacers above the front coil springs to raise the front end without changing the suspension geometry drastically.
- Coil Spring Lift Kits: These replace the factory springs with taller coils. They provide a more durable lift but can be a bit more involved to install.
- Torsion Key Leveling Kits: These adjust the front torsion bars to raise the front height. They are often inexpensive but can affect ride quality if not done carefully.
For my Jeep XJ, I went with a spacer lift kit because it balanced ease of installation and performance for my daily driving and light off-roading needs.
What I Looked for in the Best Jeep XJ Leveling Kit
Here are the key factors I focused on before making my purchase:
- Lift Height: I wanted a kit that provided around 2 inches of lift to level out the stance without making the ride too stiff.
- Durability: Since I use my Jeep on trails, I looked for kits made from high-quality steel with powder coating to resist rust.
- Installation Difficulty: I prefer kits that I can install myself with basic tools, so I checked for kits with straightforward instructions and no complicated modifications.
- Compatibility: It was important to ensure the kit was designed specifically for the Jeep XJ (1984-2001) to avoid fitment issues.
- Price: I balanced cost with quality, aiming for a kit that offered good value rather than just the cheapest option.
My Top Recommendations
After comparing several options and reading user reviews, these are the kits that stood out to me:
- Rubicon Express 2-Inch Leveling Kit: Well-known for quality and durability, with all necessary hardware included.
- Daystar 2-Inch Leveling Kit: Offers an excellent balance of price and performance, with corrosion-resistant components.
- Tuff Country 2-Inch Spacer Kit: Great for those who want a reliable kit backed by a trusted brand.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Alignment is Key: After installing the leveling kit, I made sure to get a professional wheel alignment to avoid uneven tire wear.
- Check for Additional Modifications: Depending on your tire size and lift height, you may need to upgrade shocks or other suspension components.
- Read Reviews and Forums: Jeep XJ communities online have tons of real-world feedback that helped me avoid common pitfalls.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best Jeep XJ leveling kit comes down to your specific needs and how you use your Jeep. For me, a 2-inch spacer lift kit was the perfect upgrade to level my Jeep, improve clearance, and enhance the look without breaking the bank or requiring a complicated install. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect leveling kit for your Jeep XJ adventure!
Author Profile
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With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics and later as a working partner in my own store.
I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.
As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigneurs, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.
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