VIN Etching From Factory? (1 Viewer)

[Roscoes]

From the factory, does Toyota typically etch the VIN on the vehicle windows?

I'm in the process of buying a used LC, and the dealer has come out of nowhere with a $300 VIN etching fee. Both of my previous 4Runners had the VIN etched when I purchased them, so the dealer adding this fee comes across as shady.

 

[yonah]

Unless I'm unaware of something new, it's a dealer "service" and without a doubt a very easy way for them to make a quick 'n easy $300 from people who do not know any better. I purchased my Tacoma from the original owner, who paid a similar fee for glass etching at a Toyota dealership in GA (visible in the receipts I received w/ the vehicle).

Personally, I would pass. You would be better off saving the $300.

IIRC, when I lived in El Paso, the local police department had an annual event where they would VIN etch your windows for free. Maybe they took donations, not sure? Your local PD may do the same.

 

[LBridges]

The factory does not do VIN etching.

One can buy a single car DIY kit to do it on Amazon for about $20. A dealer probably pays a local vendor ~$25 per vehicle to do the work on a bulk basis.

If my estimate is correct, that's only about 1100% profit. Seems fair right?

 

[Sandroad]

One of the oldest scams around. Complete rubbish. Decline.

 

[2014TeeLC]

I walked out of the dealing over the etching charge. It was also $300. Many local police stations will do for free. (At least they used to.) Agree with Sandroad... complete scam. The dealer called the next day and said they would eat the charge.

 

[KLF]

Next they'll start with the TruCoat pitch.

Tell them to take it off. Stand up and put your coat on if they start with the pitch. That actually sounds kinda fun.

 

[Roscoes]

Appreciate the input! If they don't remove the fee, I will let the deal go.