Ordering a Jeep from the factory lets you customize everything from paint color to axle ratios. If you want to know how to order a jeep from the factory, you have come to the right place. This guide walks you through each step, from choosing your model to taking delivery. You will learn exactly what to do, what to avoid, and how to save money along the way.
Factory ordering is not as hard as it sounds. You do not need to be a car expert. You just need a clear plan and a little patience. Let us get started.
Why Order A Jeep From The Factory?
Most people buy Jeeps off the lot. That works fine if you want what the dealer has. But if you want something specific, ordering is better.
You get exactly what you want. No compromises on color, engine, or features. You also avoid paying for add-ons you do not need. Dealers often add expensive extras like floor mats or paint protection. When you order, you control every option.
Another big reason is price. Factory orders often qualify for special incentives. You can also negotiate the price before the Jeep is built. That gives you leverage.
How To Order A Jeep From The Factory
This is the core of the process. Follow these steps carefully. They will save you time and money.
Step 1: Decide On Your Jeep Model And Trim
Jeep has many models. Wrangler, Gladiator, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer are the main ones. Each has different trims like Sport, Sahara, Rubicon, or Overland.
Think about how you will use the Jeep. Off-road? Daily commute? Towing? That will guide your choice. For example, the Rubicon is best for serious off-roading. The Sahara is better for on-road comfort.
Write down your top three choices. This helps when you talk to the dealer.
Step 2: Research Factory Options And Packages
Jeep offers many options. Paint colors, engine choices, axle ratios, and interior materials. Packages bundle popular features together.
Go to the Jeep website. Use the “Build & Price” tool. This shows every option and its cost. Play around with different combinations. See what fits your budget.
Pay attention to constraints. Some options are not available together. For example, you might not get a manual transmission with the most powerful engine. The website will tell you.
Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. This helps you stay focused.
Step 3: Find A Reputable Dealer
Not all dealers are the same. Some are great at factory orders. Others prefer selling from stock. You want a dealer that understands the process.
Look for dealers that advertise below-invoice pricing. These dealers often specialize in factory orders. Check online forums like JL Wrangler Forums or Gladiator Forum. Members share their experiences and dealer recommendations.
Call a few dealers. Ask if they do factory orders and what their process is. Ask about deposit requirements. Most dealers ask for $500 to $1,000 refundable deposit.
Step 4: Negotiate The Price Before Ordering
This is a critical step. Do not wait until the Jeep arrives to negotiate. Do it before you place the order.
Get quotes from multiple dealers. Use the same build sheet for each. Compare prices. You can often get 4-8% below invoice on Wranglers and Gladiators. Grand Cherokees might have different margins.
Ask about dealer fees. Some dealers add document fees or other charges. Get the out-the-door price in writing. This includes tax, title, and license.
If a dealer refuses to negotiate, move on. There are plenty of good dealers out there.
Step 5: Place The Order With The Dealer
Once you agree on price, the dealer will submit the order to Jeep. They will give you a Vehicle Order Number (VON) and later a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
You will need to sign a purchase agreement. Read it carefully. Make sure the price and options match what you agreed on. The deposit should be refundable unless you back out for no reason.
The dealer will give you an estimated delivery date. This is usually 6 to 12 weeks. It can vary based on demand and supply chain issues.
Step 6: Track Your Order Status
You can track your Jeep as it is built. Use the VON or VIN on the Jeep website or third-party trackers. The status codes are:
- C – Order submitted
- D – Order confirmed
- D1 – Scheduled for production
- E – In production
- F – Built and pending inspection
- G – Final inspection
- I – In transit
- KZ – Shipped
Your dealer can give you updates. But you can also check yourself. It is exciting to watch your Jeep come to life.
Step 7: Take Delivery And Inspect
When your Jeep arrives, inspect it carefully. Check the paint, interior, and all features. Make sure everything works. Look for scratches or dents.
Test drive it. Listen for unusual noises. Check the air conditioning and infotainment system. If something is wrong, tell the dealer before you sign.
Complete the paperwork. Pay the remaining balance. Then enjoy your new Jeep. You built it exactly how you wanted.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Ordering
Even experienced buyers make mistakes. Here are the most common ones.
Not Researching Options Thoroughly
Some options look good on paper but are not practical. For example, the dual-top group gives you both a hardtop and soft top. That sounds great, but storing the extra top is a pain.
Read reviews and watch videos. See what other owners say about specific options. Do not rush.
Ignoring Dealer Reputation
A bad dealer can ruin the experience. Some dealers add markups after the order. Others take months to deliver because they prioritize stock orders.
Check online reviews. Look for dealers with high ratings for factory orders. Avoid dealers with many complaints about deposits or delays.
Forgetting About Incentives
Jeep often offers incentives like rebates or low financing. These change monthly. You can lock in an incentive when you order, but it might expire before delivery.
Ask your dealer about incentive protection. Some dealers will honor the incentive at delivery if it is better. Others will not. Clarify this upfront.
Overlooking Total Cost
The base price is just the start. Options, taxes, fees, and interest add up. Use a car loan calculator to estimate your monthly payment.
Do not stretch your budget. A Jeep is fun, but not worth financial stress.
Benefits Of Factory Ordering Vs. Buying Off The Lot
Let us compare the two approaches.
| Factor | Factory Order | Buy Off Lot |
|---|---|---|
| Customization | Full control | Limited to inventory |
| Price | Often below invoice | Market price, may have markups |
| Wait Time | 6-12 weeks | Immediate |
| Add-ons | None forced | Dealer may add unwanted extras |
| Negotiation | Easier before order | Harder after car is on lot |
Factory ordering is better if you want exactly what you want. Buying off the lot is better if you need a car today.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Factory-Ordered Jeep?
Delivery times vary. Most orders take 6 to 12 weeks. But some take longer. Factors include:
- Model popularity
- Option constraints
- Supply chain issues
- Dealer allocation
Wranglers and Gladiators are popular. They often take longer. Grand Cherokees might be faster. Ask your dealer for a realistic estimate.
You can check the Jeep forum for current wait times. Other buyers share their timelines. This gives you a good idea.
Can You Order A Jeep Online?
Yes, but not directly from Jeep. You use the Build & Price tool on Jeep.com. Then you send the build to a dealer. The dealer places the order.
Some dealers offer online ordering. You do everything through email or a portal. This is convenient if you live far from the dealer.
But you still need to negotiate price. Do not just submit the build without talking to the dealer first. Get a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to order a Jeep?
End of the year or end of the month. Dealers have sales targets. They may offer better deals. Also, model year changeovers bring discounts.
Can I cancel a factory order?
Yes, usually. Most deposits are refundable. But check the dealer’s policy. Some dealers keep the deposit if the order is already in production.
Do I have to pay for the Jeep before it arrives?
No. You only pay a deposit. The full payment is due at delivery. Unless you finance, then the bank pays.
Can I order a Jeep from a dealer in another state?
Yes. Many people do this to get better prices. Just factor in shipping or travel costs. Make sure the dealer can handle out-of-state sales.
What if the price changes after I order?
Most dealers honor the agreed price. But some contracts have clauses for price increases. Read the fine print. If the dealer tries to raise the price, you can walk away.
Final Thoughts On How To Order A Jeep From The Factory
Now you know how to order a jeep from the factory. It is a straightforward process if you follow these steps. Research your options, find a good dealer, negotiate upfront, and track your order. Avoid common mistakes like not reading reviews or ignoring incentives.
Factory ordering gives you the Jeep you want, at a fair price, without dealer add-ons. The wait is worth it. You will drive off the lot with a vehicle that is truly yours.
Take your time. Do not rush. And enjoy the journey. Your custom Jeep is coming.