Buyer Question: What is Etching?

Comment: Etching is a passive theft deterrent.  Etching is a process of putting a traceable number, Vehicle Identification number (VIN#) or license plate number, on various parts of your vehicle e.g. windows, hood, trunk, doors. 

Buyer Question: Which is best VIN# or license plate number?

Comment:

VIN#  

• Pros - VIN# is a unique number which is permanently assigned to your vehicle.
• Cons - VIN# can be used by thieves to obtain keys to your vehicle from unscrupulous dealerships.

License Plate #

• Pros - License plate numbers are unique numbers assigned to your vehicle.
• Cons - License plate numbers assigned to a vehicle can change when ownership changes or when you move from state to state.

Buyer Question: Should I buy Etching?

Comment: Police departments recommend marking your valuables with permanent identifiable marks but seem to have mixed opinions regarding the value of etching a vehicle with either a VIN# or license plate number.  Call your local police department for their opinion. 

The good news is Etching kits are relatively inexpensive.  You can find Etching kits at your local auto parts, crafts and hobby stores for under $50 or over the Internet for less than $30 + shipping from Vinguard at www.vinguard.org. or Vinetcher at www.vinetcher.com.

Comment: Absolutely … If the dealership offers a better deal, take it and save some additional money. Just be aware this is one of the most over-priced options the dealerships sell.

1. The following steps take approximately one hour. 
2. Determine if your financing source requires you to have your vehicle etched.
3. Determine if your local police department recommends you etch your vehicle. 
4. Determine if you will feel more secure etching your vehicle.
5. Determine if your insurance company will give you a discount on your vehicle insurance if you etch your vehicle.  If so, how much is the discount?
6. If you are required to have or feel you want to etch your vehicle obtain quotes from your local auto parts, crafts or hobby store and from businesses who sell etching kits over the Internet. e.g. www.vinguard.org, Vinetcher at www.vinetcher.com.
7. Include the best quotes for etching in your Buyer Information Folder.

Classic Dealership One-Liners.

“Your Bank/Credit Union/Internet financing source requires you to have your vehicle etched.”

Comment: Determine if your financing source requires Etching before going to the dealership. See Step#1 above. 

“Your insurance source (agent, company, Internet site) will substantially reduce your vehicle insurance if your vehicle has been etched.”

Comment: Determine if your insurance company will substantially reduce your insurance premium before going to the dealership. See Step#4 above. 

“The police department recommends all vehicles be etched.”

Comment: Contact your local police department for their opinion before going to the dealership.

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