The 2018 model year is where it gets confusing: Jeep sold both the outgoing JK and the all-new JL Wrangler side by side. If you are shopping for decals, a spare tire cover, or parts, knowing which generation you have matters, because fitment is different. Here are five quick ways to tell a JK (2007 to 2018) from a JL (2018 and newer) at a glance.
Quick answer: JK vs JL by year
The Wrangler JK ran from 2007 to 2018. The JL launched for 2018 and is still in production. Because they overlapped in 2018, the year alone will not always tell you, so use the visual tells below to be sure.
1. The grille
Look at the seven-slot grille from the side. The JK grille is smooth from top to bottom with narrow gaps between the slots. The JL grille has a subtle kink in the middle, where the face steps slightly out and then back, and the gaps between the slots are wider.
2. Fender vents
The JL added a small functional vent right behind each front fender flare, on the driver and passenger sides, to improve airflow. The JK has no vent there. This is one of the fastest tells once you know to look for it.
3. Front turn signals
On the JK, the front turn signal lights sit under the headlights. On the JL, the signals moved onto the front fender flare face itself. If the blinkers are on the flares, you are looking at a JL.
4. Key vs push-button start
Hop in and look at the steering column. The JK uses a traditional turn key. Most JL models use push-button start. Not a visual-from-outside tell, but a dead giveaway once you are in the seat.
5. The dashboard and backup camera
The JK has an older radio and dash layout. The JL has a modern touchscreen Uconnect system and, importantly for tire cover shoppers, a backup camera mounted in the rear spare tire area. If your Wrangler has that rear camera, it is a JL, and it changes which spare tire cover you need.
Why it matters for decals and covers
Fitment is generation-specific. Hood, fender, and body decals are cut for a JK or a JL, not both, so ordering the right one saves a return. And because the JL carries a backup camera on the spare, you will want a spare tire cover with a camera hole, while a JK usually takes a standard cover. Our backup camera guide walks through it by year. Once you know your generation, browse Jeep decals and spare tire covers for the right fit.
Frequently asked questions
What years are the Jeep Wrangler JK and JL?
The JK Wrangler was built from 2007 to 2018. The JL launched for the 2018 model year and continues today, so 2018 is the one year both were sold.
Is my 2018 Wrangler a JK or a JL?
Check the fender flares and grille. If the front turn signals are on the flare face, there is a small vent behind each front flare, and the grille has a slight kink in the middle, it is a JL. Signals under the headlights and a flat grille mean it is a JK.
Do JK and JL Wranglers use the same decals?
No. Hood, fender, and body decals are cut for a specific generation, so a JK kit will not line up correctly on a JL and vice versa. Always order for your exact generation.
Does the JL Wrangler have a backup camera on the spare?
Yes. JL Wranglers carry a rear backup camera in the spare tire area, so if you run a spare tire cover you will want one with a camera hole. Older JK Wranglers usually do not have this camera.
Know your generation? Get the right fit.
Shop decals and spare tire covers cut for your JK or JL Wrangler.
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