Jeep Easter Eggs: What They Mean And Where To Find Them

Jeep enthusiasts and casual car owners alike have long been fascinated by the unique and playful details that Jeep designers integrate into its vehicles. These hidden symbols and designs, known as “Jeep easter eggs,” are camouflaged or obscurely placed nods to the brand’s storied history and adventurous spirit. From hidden Jeep symbols to quirky designs that pay homage to the brand’s military heritage, and even call-outs to the silver screen with certain movies starring a Jeep vehicle. These easter eggs on Jeeps have become a beloved feature among owners and brand loyalists.

In this piece, we’ll take a detailed look into the origins, common sightings, and rare finds of these delightful surprises in various Jeep models. We will not divulge all the easter eggs for every model since discovery and exploration is all part of the fun of Jeep ownership. For quick reference, here is a chart of known Jeep easter eggs.

The History Of Jeep Easter Eggs

So, when did the Jeep easter eggs tradition start? Incorporating easter eggs into Jeep designs began in the late 1990s, driven by the creativity of Jeep’s design team. The first easter egg is credited to Michael Santoro, who added a small gecko to the interior of the 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ. This whimsical touch was meant to bring a smile to drivers and create a unique bond between the vehicle and its owner. Since then, the practice has expanded, with multiple Jeep model years featuring easter eggs.

Another fun fact about Jeep easter eggs is that the brand has a strong affinity and relationship to the annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari event, typically held during late March to early April, where they typically reveal a fleet of Jeep Concept vehicles.

Do All Jeeps Have Easter Eggs?

While not every Jeep model is guaranteed to have easter eggs, most modern Jeep vehicles do, with the obvious presence of Jeep logo branding throughout the vehicles. The location of these hidden and more obscure details often depends on the model and year. For example, the Jeep Wrangler, Renegade, and Cherokee are known for having numerous easter eggs, whereas older models like the Jeep Patriot may not feature any. It’s always a fun adventure for Jeep owners to hunt for these easter eggs and discover the creativity embedded in their vehicles.

Here is a list of known Jeep models with easter eggs:

• Jeep Wrangler
• Jeep Gladiator
• Jeep Cherokee
• Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Jeep Compass
• Jeep Renegade
• Jeep Wagoneer
• Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Where To Look For Jeep Easter Eggs

You might find a vintage Jeep Willys image on the rear window or even stamped on the wheels. Jeep’s reputation for off-roading adventures is highlighted by a mini topographical map of the Utah Moab desert, which can be found on the plastic near the gear shifter. To emphasize its vehicles’ superior grip on various terrains, Jeep has placed a small gecko under the windshield wipers. Reflecting their vehicles’ durability and reliability, Jeep includes a T-Rex symbol on the floor mats.

Most Jeep models feature the iconic seven-slot grille design etched into their headlights. The grille icon Jeep easter egg appears in multiple other locations, such as the side rearview mirror housing and the stereo speakers. Additionally, the dead pedal on the driver’s side carries a Morse code that spells out “Sand, Snow, Rivers, Rocks,” highlighting the versatility of Jeep vehicles. The rear lights often have an X-design that’s a throwback to old-school gas cans.

Other unique touches include a map of the Moab trail etched into the change cubby and an orange paintball splotch on the RPM redline, reflecting the design team’s passion for weekend hobbies. Jeep also pays homage to mythical creatures with an image of a Sasquatch on the raised plastic of the rear windshield. Lastly, the Jeep logo is subtly integrated underneath the mesh fabric of the seat covers, adding a final touch of hidden charm.

Jeep Wrangler Easter Eggs

The Jeep Wrangler is perhaps the most famous model when it comes to easter eggs, boasting an array of hidden gems that delight its owners. One of the most iconic easter eggs is the flip-flop design found on the cowl of the windshield, paying tribute to the revered auto journalist, Rick Pewe. This playful touch is a nod to the carefree, adventurous lifestyle that the Wrangler embodies.

Another notable easter egg is the Morse code inscription on the back of the Wrangler JL, spelling out “JL” in dots and dashes. This subtle detail adds a layer of intrigue and connection to the vehicle’s model designation.

Jeep is also known for using more than one easter egg animal. Inside the Wrangler, you’ll find a variety of hidden animals, such as a spider near the fuel cap with the phrase “Ciao Baby” and a lizard on the dashboard. These hidden animals on Jeeps add a touch of personality and fun to the driving experience.

Jeep Gladiator Easter Eggs

The Jeep Gladiator, a unique blend of a truck and an off-road vehicle, also boasts several easter eggs. One of the most exciting finds is the miniature Willys Jeep crawling up the windshield, a tribute to Jeep’s military heritage and off-road legacy. A pair of flip-flops etched into the Gladiator’s cowl can also be found.

Another fun easter egg in the Gladiator is the “No Step” warning etched on the side rails. This aircraft-style design element adds a touch of humor while also serving a practical purpose, reminding owners not to use the side rails as steps.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Easter Eggs

The Jeep Grand Cherokee, a popular model known for its blend of luxury and off-road capability, is not shy about its easter eggs. One of the most charming easter eggs in the Grand Cherokee is the miniature silhouette of a Jeep climbing a hill, which can be found on the edge of the window. This hidden symbol serves as a reminder of the vehicle’s rugged roots and off-road capabilities.

Another popular easter egg location in the Grand Cherokee is the headlight housing, where a small Jeep grille design is subtly etched. This hidden detail pays homage to the iconic seven-slot grille that has become synonymous with the Jeep brand.

Jeep Renegade Easter Eggs

The Jeep Renegade is perhaps the most packed with over 30 clever easter eggs. One of the most famous easter eggs in the Renegade is the Bigfoot Jeep easter egg found on the rear window, creating a familiar theme of legendary creatures. This hidden image of Bigfoot hiking up a hill adds a whimsical touch that captures the spirit of adventure associated with the Renegade.

Another notable easter egg is the “Since 1941” inscription found on the dashboard, a tribute to Jeep’s long history of producing rugged and reliable vehicles. Additionally, the Renegade features the seven-slot grille pattern in various locations, including the headlights. In the taillights, you can spot the “X” symbol that marks a throwback to the gerry cans a Willys Jeep would carry across the battlefields during World War II.

Jeep Compass Easter Eggs

The Jeep Compass, known for its compact design, features several easter eggs that add to its charm. One of the most notable is the hidden topographical map of Moab, Utah, etched into the center console. This design element pays tribute to one of the most popular off-roading destinations and reinforces Jeep’s adventurous spirit. The Compass also sports a little gecko hiding under the wipers, and some Jeep Compass owners will notice the mythical Loch Ness Monster swimming along the base of the rear windshield. Nessie, the sea creature, is a reference to how the Jeep Compass can ford up to 19 inches of water.

Another interesting easter egg in the Compass is the small Jeep silhouette climbing rocks found on the window.

Jeep Liberty Easter Eggs

The Jeep Liberty, though discontinued, also has its share of easter eggs that continue to surprise and delight owners. One of the more subtle easter eggs in the Liberty is the outline of the Jeep grille hidden within the headlight housing. Another easter egg in the Liberty is a hidden Jeep silhouette on the rear window, paying homage to the original Willys Jeep used during World War II.