Dashboard pulled for work? Read this!

[ms018kmf]

So i was towing my mini to Phoenix for some work today. I got pulled over because the mini had it's plate removed. I was informed that since I was towing with a car dolly it's wheels were touching the ground, if that is the case (in Arizona at least) then it needs everything legit to tow.

I should have thought about the mini's plates and paperwork, that was my bad. However it got interesting, when I went to show the officer the VIN I realised it was riveted to the dash. Big problem, when I pulled the dash I commited criminal vehicular fraud and could have been locked up on the spot.

The officer was very reasonable and turned me loose, the door VIN saved me but it is not an offical number.

The riveted dash number is gold, even if you are towing something make sure you take the dash with everywhere you go (preferably installed).

Also U Haul tow dollies fit like crap on mini trucks, I wanted a trailer and they were out.

 

[2ndGenToyotaFan]

Good info! The only VIN that counts, is the one that bolts off..... Yeah!

 

[Redneck92]

Dont forget the vin on the frame as well.

 

[ms018kmf]

The LEO said the frame DIN, engine, trans and sticker were not official (WTF?). I don't know how that would shake out in court, having everything else match would help but I'd rather not find out the hard way.

I'm good with the written warning, basically he could have locked me up on the spot.

My cruiser dash is the same way, every time anybody removes their Toyota dashboard for service (in Arizona at least) they are committing vehicular fraud. A/C, heater core, ext., I would not be surprised if other have the same laws.

I used to have a 2003 Corolla, I think the VIN was mounted the same way.

By doing maintenance we are criminals on paper, the government doing a bang up job as always.

 

[monyman]

When I pulled my dash pad in CA I had no idea I might be committing a criminal act! Heavens...

 

[jynx]

Heck, the windows in my 98 have the vin etched in them. And I think the VIN in my 91 FJ80 was actually attached to the firewall. This is interesting info.