What Do John Deere Serial Numbers Mean?

A John Deere serial number consists of 13 to 17 numbers and letters, and it serves as a distinct code that identifies a particular vehicle. People can use a serial number to track a vehicle and find out information such as the manufacture date and location.

The serial number, also called vehicle identification number, of steel-deck, walk-behind John Deere mowers is typically found on the left area of the mower deck. John Deere 100 Series tractors usually have a serial number on the frame close to the back left wheel, whereas zero-turn mowers have a serial number below the seat, atop the frame on the right section.

Individuals can recognize a VIN by checking for a sticker with a print that says “Manufactured by John Deere.” Tractors built in the 1960s and 1970s typically contain around five to six letters and numbers only, although machines manufactured at a later period contain 13 to 17 letters and numbers.

The first two characters in a VIN with 13 symbols or the first three characters in a VIN with 17 symbols are the factory code. The subsequent four characters are the model number, while the remaining characters indicate the emission level designation, unique serial number, security code and manufacture date. The last characters also specify the transmission code and track or wheel designation.