Free 1997 Jeep Wrangler VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1997 Jeep Wrangler VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1997 Jeep Wrangler VIN

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) codes are a crucial component of a vehicle’s identification number (VIN), designated to uniquely identify the manufacturer of any given vehicle globally. The WMI for a 1997 Jeep Wrangler, “1J4,” is a specific code indicating that the vehicle was manufactured by FCA US LLC, which is based in Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States. This code is followed by a series of other characters in the VIN that provide additional information, such as the vehicle’s type, model, and production year. Specifically, the “1J4” indicates that the 1997 Jeep Wrangler is classified as a Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle (MPV). Such identifiers are vital for understanding the origin and basic characteristics of vehicles, aiding in everything from registration and insurance to recalls and repairs.

List of WMI Codes for a 1997 Jeep Wrangler

WMI: 1J4

• Model Years Covered: 1993-1995, 1997-2011
• Example VIN: 1J4FY49S0VP469645
• Manufacturer Name: FCA US LLC
• Vehicle Type: Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle (MPV)
• City: Auburn Hills
• State or Province: Michigan
• Country: United States

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 1997 Jeep Wrangler VIN

These characters correspond to components like:

• Engine type
• Transmission
• Model or trim
• Body style
• Gross vehicle weight range

Below find the known vehicle descriptor codes for a 1997 Jeep Wrangler:

Auto manufacturers have some discretion to decide how they want to code this section, but its contents and decoded results are generally consistent.

Character 9 is the “check digit” in a 1997 Jeep Wrangler VIN.

Based on a formula developed by the US Department of Transportation, it helps reduce fraud by ensuring the validity of the VIN.

10th Character in the 1997 Jeep Wrangler VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1997 Jeep Wrangler VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1997 Jeep Wrangler Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1997 Jeep Wrangler

The final 6 characters in a 1997 Jeep Wrangler’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

Check your Jeep Wrangler’s VIN below:

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What info can a 1997 Jeep Wrangler VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 1997, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Doors: A VIN may indicate a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) or Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) with 2 doors, offering detailed insights into the vehicle’s design and structure.
• Engine Specifications: Details such as the engine type being In-Line, with 6 cylinders and a displacement of 4 liters (4000 CC or 244.0949763789 CI), are encoded within, providing valuable information about the vehicle’s power and performance.
• Drive Type and Fuel Efficiency: It can indicate the drive type as 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4 and the primary fuel type as Gasoline, offering insights into the vehicle’s handling characteristics and fuel efficiency.
• Safety Features: The presence of front airbags in the 1st Row (Driver and Passenger) suggests standard safety features for this model, potentially enhancing its safety ratings.
• Manufacturing Details: Specifics about the vehicle’s manufacturing, including the plant location in Toledo, Ohio, United States, and the name “Toledo Assembly # 2”, are often encapsulated, providing historical and geographical information about the vehicle’s production.
• Vehicle Identification: The VIN provides a unique identifier, such as “1J4FY19S*VP” for this Wrangler, aiding in vehicle tracking and history checks, which can be useful for ownership and maintenance purposes.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1997 Jeep Wrangler

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