Window Tint Considerations
Tinting the rear glass blocks heat in the cargo area and reduces UV interior wear. Choose ceramic film (3M Crystalline, Llumar IRX) for heat rejection without going dark. Front window legality varies by state.
XJ has 5 rear windows that come from factory completely clear (or 'privacy glass' on Limited trims). Common upgrade is to add aftermarket tint to all rear glass + sometimes the front side windows (state-dependent).
Film options:
- Dyed film (cheapest, ~$80-120 install): blocks visible light but minimal heat rejection. Fades to purple in 5 years. Avoid.
- Carbon film: better, doesn't fade, ~$150-200 install. Moderate heat rejection.
- Ceramic film (3M Crystalline, Llumar IRX, Suntek CXP): blocks 60-90% of infrared (heat) at clear-looking shades. $300-500 for full rig. Best long-term choice.
XJ-specific: the rear quarter windows are fixed and curved — they tint cleanly. The rear hatch glass is a single large pane with the wiper to work around. The window winders on front doors mean some film installers won't tint older XJ fronts (concern about regulator interference).
Legality: most states require 35%+ VLT (visible light transmission) on front sides; rear is unrestricted in many states. Check your state law — getting pulled over for too-dark front tints is a fast way to a citation. 5% 'limo tint' on cargo windows is legal almost everywhere on SUVs.
UV protection: even a clear ceramic film (70% VLT) blocks 99% of UV — slows interior fade significantly. Great for protecting investment in carpet replacement, dash cap, etc.
Why it works
- UV protection
- heat rejection
- privacy
- slows interior fade
Trade-offs
- state legality varies
- DIY is hard to get right
Tools required
- pro install recommended
Parts
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| 3M Crystalline ceramic tint full vehicle | 3M installer | ~$450 |
| Llumar IRX 20% rear+30% front | Llumar installer | ~$350 |
| Suntek CXP carbon film | Suntek installer | ~$280 |
Sources
Related
- Antenna Replacement (Mast / Stubby / Hidden)
- Backup Camera Install (with Double-DIN)
- All Jeep Cherokee XJ guides & tools
- Browse the full DIY database
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. How we source guides. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.