Chat with us, powered by LiveChat 1981-1986 Jeep CJ Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Decoder | Quadratec Skip to main content
Reference

1981-1986 Jeep CJ VIN numbers can be found in a few different places. They can be on the driver's side firewall near the brake master cylinder, on the driver's side dash or near the parking brake lever on the inside body panel. It can also be found on the windshield wiper motor cover inside the Jeep.


Character
   
1st
1 = USA
Country
2nd
J = Jeep
Make
3rd
C = MPV
E = Export LHD
F = Export RHD
Type
4th
B = 151ci
L = 232ci
C = 258ci
H = 304ci
F = Diesel
Engine
5th
B = Auto, Floor
A = Auto, Column
M = 4 speed
N = 5 speed
Transmission
6th & 7th
85 = CJ-5
86 = CJ-6
87 = CJ-7
88 = CJ-8
Model
8th
A = 3,750 lbs
E = 4,150 lbs
GVW
(Gross Vehicle Weight)
9th
Check #
Check #
10th
B = 1981
C = 1982
D = 1983
E = 1984
F = 1985
G = 1986
Year
11th
T = Toledo
Plant
12th to 17th
######
SSN
(Sequential Serial Number)

Courtesy of Jeepfan.com


Top Jeep Articles

  • December 26, 2025
  • 4 min read
Seven Slot Dispatch 12.26.2025
Weekly Jeep-related news items from around the industry and community.
READ MORE
  • December 23, 2025
  • 4 min read
Five Things You Didn’t Know About the Jeep Recon
Jeep’s first all-electric SUV blends Trail Rated capability, open-air design, and surprising performance in a bold new chapter for the brand.
READ MORE
  • December 19, 2025
  • 15 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day 12: Ten Best Jeep Wrangler Mods For A First-Time Owner
A first-time Jeep owner’s guide to smart, affordable upgrades that improve protection, comfort, and capability—without overbuilding too soon.
READ MORE
  • December 19, 2025
  • 4 min read
Seven Slot Dispatch 12.19.2025
Weekly Jeep-related news items from around the industry and community.
READ MORE
  • December 18, 2025
  • 5 min read
Jeep Death Wobble Q&A: Causes, Symptoms, Fixes and How to Prevent It
Learn what death wobble is, why it happens on solid-axle Wrangler and Gladiator models, and the exact components to inspect for a safe, lasting repair.
READ MORE
  • December 18, 2025
  • 4 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day 11: TACTIK 9-Inch Gen 2 LED Headlights
Night Run Tested in Moab: How Tactik 9-Inch Gen 2 LED Headlights Upgrade Wrangler JL & Gladiator JT Visibility, Beam Pattern, and Durability Over Factory Halogens
READ MORE
  • December 17, 2025
  • 8 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day 10: Nine Things You Need In Your Jeep This Winter
Winter Emergency Gear Every Jeep Owner Should Carry: Essential Tools and Trail-Safe Upgrades for Snow, Ice, and Cold-Weather Driving
READ MORE
Red Jeep covered in snow with trees as a backdrop
  • December 16, 2025
  • 5 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day Nine: How to Remove Ice And Snow From Your Jeep's Soft Top Windows
How to Protect Your Jeep Soft Top Windows in Winter: Safe Snow Removal Tips, What to Avoid, and How to Prevent Cracking or Damage
READ MORE