Jeep is a singular brand associated with adventure and the passion for having great fun in an off-road vehicle. In 1940, Jeep’s 4x4 ruggedness established itself as a war vehicle and a hero to thousands of Allied Troops. “Go anywhere” and “do anything” has been the brand’s selling point for decades.
Similar to other automotive manufacturers, the Jeep VIN began as a wartime production number. Civilian Jeep production began in July 1945 with the CJ model, which started with the serial number #10001 and ended with #11824.
Jeep VIN Decoder
VIN decoders are helpful applications used to unravel a vehicle’s 17-digit VIN code. Automakers use pre-designed formulas to provide basic information on a specific vehicle. VIN decoders unravel the VIN code such as the vehicle’s build and model information. A 17-digit code mandated by the NHTSA in 1981 offers the make, trim level, engine, and transmission type.
Use the GoodCar VIN Decoder service to decipher your Jeep’s 17-digit code.
Deciphering an Jeep VIN
Automakers first created VINs as early as 1954. However, the Jeep was unique; the Willys 4x4 Quad and Jeep CJ vehicles were created at the start of the Second World War, and the military developed a production serial numbering system for the vehicles as early as 1944.
- 1
- F
- T
- 8
- W
- 3
- D
- T
- 8
- 5
- 5
- c
- 3
- 8
- 8
- 9
- 9
Locating Your Jeep VIN
The brand’s VIN can be found in a few different locations, including the two mandated by the NHTSA.
- The first location is on the driver’s side dashboard, at the windshield. The number must be readable through the glass. The second mandated location is on the driver’s door frame, usually stamped on a plaque with other vital information.
- On the Wrangler YJ, the VIN may be stamped under the radiator or on the firewall near the ECU. VINs may also be stamped on the front of the engine block, wheel well, or frame.
Popular Jeep Models
Jeep Wrangler
For over 80 years, Jeep has produced some of the most recognizable models on the road. The Jeep Wrangler began its epic run in 1986 and is currently in its fourth generation. Every automaker who dreamed of producing an off-roader has used the Wrangler as their starting point. The Wrangler is one of the first automotive models to have a four-wheel drive system embedded into the frame; the current Wrangler continues this tradition. The Wrangler has eight distinct models, with the 4-door Rubicon starting at $100,590. The Rubicon is another beast with a 6.4L V8 HEMI and an eight-speed automatic transmission. A far cry from the war-torn Jeep C7s of the 1940s.
Jeep Cherokee
Jeep Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that has been in production since the mid-70s and has evolved into a big, comfortable 4x4 SUV suited for every member of the family. The Grand Cherokee is a technology-laden, 3-row SUV with the largest wheelbase in its class. Rear seat touchscreens, six USB ports, and a 19-speaker Mcintosh audio system are only the beginning. Unparalleled safety and security features make each separate model in the Grand Cherokee series a step above incredible.
Jeep Compass
Jeep's foray into the compact crossover market starts with the Compass, which is extremely affordable at $25,900. The Compass features a spirited 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with nearly 200hp. Gas mileage is good, but it could be better: 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. There is plenty of good upgrade technology available in each of the six models of the Compass, along with a 4-wheel drive and Ultimate.
The Jeep VIN
Jeep’s VIN development has followed every American-made automobile since 1981. Even if a vehicle was produced in a different country, the automaker must follow the NHTSA policy. What makes Jeep different from other automakers is its war service and military serial number development since 1940.
Vehicles older than 30 years are considered classics, while other experts put the number at 50 years. Most automakers do not have the war record history of a Jeep. Classic automobiles bring rich historical significance to the world along with their cultural impact, and this is especially true for Jeep. For the most part, every model produced before 1981 had a manufacturer's individual production sequence, not tied to any other brand.
GoodCar Jeep VIN Checks
Using the GoodCar VIN Lookup tool, any user can find the complete history of a vehicle with its 17-digit alphanumeric code. This information is extremely useful when buying a used car or truck, maintaining the vehicle, and finding any Technical Service Bulletins or Recalls.
A GoodCar VIN Check is excellent for uncovering market values, Jeep specifications, sales listings, title issues, and ownership timelines. GoodCar’s VIN lookup tool provides a wealth of information for a detailed look into your vehicle’s history using the GoodCar VIN Check tool.
Uncover specific Jeep specifications for any model, year, engine type, transmission, and other valuable data. Verify your Jeep’s title status, which may include any rebuilt or salvage title history.
Discover detailed ownership information, including the odometer check and the number of owners from the first to the current owner. The GoodCar VIN Check service can uncover any outstanding liens or loans on the vehicle and make sure there is a clean title transfer.
Each event should have a detailed odometer reading to counter any attempted mileage fraud. Accurate readings also help prospective buyers to assess the actual wear and tear of a vehicle.
Technical Service Bulletins
Every GoodCar history report details any technical service bulletins that should be addressed immediately. TSBs or recalls come from the manufacturer, NHTSA, or both. Information will include the specific bulletin, the cause, and the action.
Recalls are notices sent by the manufacturer to the owner advising them if there is a serious issue with their vehicle and what action to take. A TSB is a less severe issue that affects the regular operation of your Jeep.
TBS 31-002-22, December 2022, concerns both the manufacturer and NHTSA. The issue involves several Jeep models, including the Renegade and Wrangler, as well as other brands. The TSB involves aluminum corrosion or bubbling along the leading edge of hoods, hinges, doors, fenders, and other exterior surfaces. Owners should head to the dealership ASAP for prep and panel replacement.
Recalls
Issued in February of 2024, Chrysler has recalled more than 330,000 Jeep Cherokees to fix a steering wheel problem that may cause the driver to lose control. The NHTSA says the upper control arm and steering knuckle may separate. Impacted vehicles should go to their dealership immediately to fix the problem free of charge.
Stellantis, the parent company of Chrysler, Jeep, and RAM, is recalling over 38,000 vehicles because airbags may not deploy. Affected Jeep models are the 2023 Jeep Wrangler, Wagoneer, and Grand Wagoneer. The problem is that an airbag module may disconnect. Owners should take their vehicles to the nearest Jeep dealer for inspection or the replacement of the SCCM.
In July of 2024, Jeep issued a recall notice for nearly 100,000 Wrangler 4xe models due to the loss of engine power. After dozens of complaints, the NHTSA issued the recall for an engine shutdown condition. Owners should immediately take their Wranglers to the dealership for inspection and repair.