What is a VIN and why do we use it?
The VIN is short for Vehicle Identification Number. It's the vehicle's unique identification document. No two vehicles have the same VIN number.
There are different parts of a VIN number. It comprises of a 17-digit alphanumeric code, consisting of 3 sections. The first 2 sections identify the manufacturer and description of the vehicle. The 3rd section is unique to the vehicle alone: no other vehicle has that number.
Protectacar only uses the last 6 chatacters of the VIN number as this is the only part of the VIN that is totally unique to your car.
Why use the VIN number and not the Registration number?
The VIN number is the only thing that stays with the car for the life of the car. It cannot be legally changed by anyone except for the motor vehicle authorities (RTA). Here in Australia, we have the freedom to change the registration number of our car as often as we like, but not the VIN number. That’s why we use it.
Why engrave the VIN number on all the windows?
The engraving is highly visible. When a potential thief approaches your car, he or she will see the engraving – so more often than not, the thief will decide to move on to a less detectable car. In the unfortunate circumstance that your car gets stolen with its VIN number engraved on all the windows, the thief would have to replace all the windows on the vehicle which would be both very suspicious and costly. This would not be a desirable situation for a thief.
Why engrave my windows when I have an alarm?
Yes, alarms are a good deterrent for a thief. However, it only takes a few seconds for a thief to enter your car, disarm the alarm, and drive away. Also, with so many false alarms, the general public tends to turn a blind eye – unless a person hears their own alarm. With Protectacar engraving on all windows, your protection cannot be turned off or by passed without suspicion.
135 Rayleigh Drive Worrigee
NSW 2540
Australia
Terry Edwards
02 4422 1234
0414 904 782
