Free 1997 Jeep Cherokee VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1997 Jeep Cherokee VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1997 Jeep Cherokee VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code consisting of the first three characters of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which designates the manufacturer, vehicle type, and the country of manufacture. For the 1997 Jeep Cherokee, the WMI is “1J4”, indicating that the vehicle was manufactured by FCA US LLC, formerly known as Chrysler Group LLC, in the United States. This particular WMI specifies the vehicle as a Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle (MPV), produced in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The coverage of this WMI spans several model years, including 1989-2001 and 2010-2011, reflecting the spans of production for vehicles under this designation. This system of identification aids in the tracking, registration, and recall processes for vehicles globally.

List of WMI Codes for a 1997 Jeep Cherokee

WMI: 1J4

• Model Years Covered: 1989-2001, 2010-2011
• Example VIN: 1J4FJ27S2VL563903
• 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee:

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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee VIN — Year Code

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

Known 1997 Jeep Cherokee Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1997 Jeep Cherokee

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

Check your Jeep Cherokee’s VIN below:

What info can a 1997 Jeep Cherokee VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, such as 1997, providing insight into the vehicle’s age and potential market value.
• Vehicle Specifications: The Cherokee SE is equipped with a 4.0L engine with a displacement of 4000 CC and an in-line engine configuration, designed for power and efficiency with a six-cylinder engine.
• Fuel Type and Efficiency: The vehicle utilizes a gasoline fuel type with a Multipoint Fuel Injection (MPFI) system, impacting both performance and fuel economy.
• Safety Features: The presence of front airbags for both the driver and passenger in the first row hints at the vehicle’s emphasis on safety.
• Drive Type and Off-Road Capability: Described as a 4WD (4-Wheel Drive), indicating enhanced off-road capabilities and better traction in adverse weather conditions.
• Plant Information: Manufactured in Toledo, Ohio, United States, by Toledo Assembly # 1, ensuring traceability and quality assurance of the manufacturing process.
• Body Class and Practicality: Classified as a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) with two doors, showcasing a versatile design suitable for a variety of driving conditions and purposes.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1997 Jeep Cherokee