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VIN Etching: Scam or Value?

VIN etching scam or value in the US—dealer add-on to etch VIN on glass; often overpriced; say no or negotiate low price.

AutoPremo Team
January 31, 2026
1 min read

VIN etching in the U.S. is a dealer add-on—VIN etched on glass (theft deterrent). Dealers often charge hundreds for a low-cost service—often overpriced. Here's VIN etching: scam or value.

TL;DR VIN etching = real (VIN on glass); dealer price often inflated ($200–$500+ for low-cost service). Say no or negotiate very low price. Get full OTD in writing—use autopremo.com OTD calculator. Use autopremo.com.

What It Is

VIN etched on windows—theft deterrent (some insurers offer small discount). Cost to dealer is low; they charge hundreds. Use autopremo.com OTD calculator to build OTD without add-ons. Get your numbers at autopremo.com.

Say No or Negotiate Low

Say no—or pay only a small amount if you want it. Don't pay full dealer price. Get full OTD in writing. Use autopremo.com. See OTD at autopremo.com.

Bottom Line

VIN etching = real but often overpriced. Say no or negotiate low; get full OTD in writing. Use autopremo.com OTD calculator.

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