Decoding the VIN number of your Jeep Wrangler JK is a quick and simple task provided you have access to the right tools and resources. Rest assured we have collected a trove of useful info on this page so you can find out all the details of the Wrangler you’re looking at purchasing or the Jeep you already own.

Every road registered vehicle built since 1981 can be identified by a unique VIN or Vehicle Identification Number which is stamped or engraved in a number of places around the vehicle. These VINs are stored in online databases which can be accessed when required by law enforcement, automotive dealerships, insurance companies, car buyers, and other government agencies.

If you’re wondering how to read your Jeep Wrangler VIN number you’ll be relieved to know it’s a simple task and can be done without accessing any databases. Each digit of the 17 digit VIN contains important info such as the age and specs of your 2007 to 2017 JK Wrangler that future dealers or buyers, insurance companies and you likely to want to know.

Step 1: Find Your VIN

The two most common VIN locations on a vehicle are:

• At the bottom of the windshield on the driver’s side dashboard.
• Inside the driver’s side door jam (also known as the B pillar).

The vehicle registration and insurance documents for your vehicle will also include the 17-digit code.

Step 2: Decode Your VIN

This is a simple process whereby each letter or number of the VIN corresponds to a different specification for your vehicle. For example the first digit is “1” which identifies the country your Jeep was manufactured in. In this case “1” means United States.

Continue decoding your Vehicle Identification Number using our handy infographic below:

The above Jeep Wrangler VIN Decoder Infographic covers the 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 JK model years.

Be sure to save the above image to your phone so you can save time when inspecting your next Wrangler prior to purchase.

Step 3: Request Your Jeep “Factory Build Sheet”

If you want to know even more about your Jeep Wrangler then you can request a “Factory Build Sheet” from Jeep themselves. This report includes all the specifications and options your truck came with when it left the factory.

Have your VIN ready and then proceed to the Official Jeep Equipment Listing website. Note that while the Jeep website linked above mentions “Vehicles built before 1998 are not eligible for this functionality.” some owners of older Jeeps were still able to find useful details regarding their trucks. Your buddies are going to be so jealous when you tell them your Wrangler was specced with the “luxury steering wheel” from the factory.

Step 4: Vehicle History Report

If you’re curious about the background of your current truck or you’re about to buy a used Wrangler and want to be thorough, then a Vehicle History Report is a recommended pre purchase check. Keep in mind these checks are helpful but are by no means the final word on a vehicle’s history. You simply cannot beat having a competent mechanic or one familiar with Wranglers put your potential purchase up on a hoist and give it a thorough going over.

For a basic and free check including stolen or salvage title check out the NICB History Check.

For a much more thorough paid option you can’t go wrong with CarFax. The problem is $39.99 is a fairly hefty fee for a background check. If you’d prefer to spend 10 minutes instead, you can get this info for free via eBay of all places. This helpful Reddit article explains how.

Just How Many New Wranglers Are Sold Each Year?

Take a look at these Jeep Wrangler sales figures since 2008. Note these numbers are for the United States only. That’s a definite upward trend!

2016 Jeep Wrangler 191,788 units
2015 Jeep Wrangler 202,702 units
2014 Jeep Wrangler 175,328 units
2013 Jeep Wrangler 155,502 units
2012 Jeep Wrangler 141,669 units
2011 Jeep Wrangler 122,460 units
2010 Jeep Wrangler 94,310 units
2009 Jeep Wrangler 82,044 units
2008 Jeep Wrangler 84,615 units