Greetings all.

I'm the happy new owner of an '09 Fit Sport, which replaced my recently-stolen 93 SI Hatchback. I'd like to avoid having my new car stolen, so I'm investigating my options for security. VIN etching seems to be pretty high on the cost-effective security list, and I have two questions that I hope someone here can answer.

1. Is VIN etching compatible with tinted windows? My Fit has tint, and I don't want to screw that up.

2. There appear to be a lot of cheap DIY etching kits available. Which ones are the best value -- or are they all the same?

Here are some I've seen:

http://www.vinshield.com
http://www.vinetcher.com/
http://www.vinguard.org/
http://www.instaetch.com/

Any reviews would be appreciated.

Thanks.

BRYAN

 

Well, as far as I know, since tint goes *inside* the windows and etching is done on the *outsides* of the windows, I don't think having one means you can't have the other. In fact I don't think it should mess up your tint. But you might want to wait for someone else's opinion on that before you run out and etch.

As far as etching the glass goes, I would go with whatever was cheaper. Really what you're paying for is the stencil stickers to be made with your VIN, because you can buy glass etching stuff at any art store. You might want to check with your local police dept; I don't know how things are in GA, but here in NYC you can get VIN etching done by the Crime Prevention arm of the NYPD for free. So maybe they have a car-theft prevention program in a similar vein for you too. I'm going to be calling the precinct later today to see what I have to do to get an appointment to have it done!

Edit: Actually, before I hit the post button I decided to look at some of those VIN etching options you posted, and the insta-etch one has a demo video where the etching is being applied to a tinted window with no ill-effects. So go for it!

 

vin etching will not ruin your tints, i spent many a years at my dealership putting vin etch on the new cars that came in as well as the used cars. as far as aftermarket kits, i have no idea. we were always provided the factory stuff that was basically blue painters tape and some chemical that etched/burned/whatever it did into the window. if i had to pick it owuld probably be the first option though. hope this helps

 

You could try to install some sort of aftermarket immobilizer system or GPS tracking system (usually have monthly plans though).

Something similar to what you are looking at is a data dots package, where you can apply or spray these tiny dots with unique identifiers on them onto different parts of the car and the components.

 

I think if your car gets stolen, if the parts are sold privately. The etching would not be effective unless, the person that purchased the stolen parts vehicles gets inspected.