On Saturday, September 17, 2016, from 9:00 a.m. to Noon, the Prescott Valley Police Department will provide a free VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) etching opportunity at the Prescott Valley Event Center, 3201 N. Main Street, Prescott Valley.
VIN Etching is the process of permanently etching the vehicle’s digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on each piece of window glass on the vehicle.
VIN etching serves as a permanent fingerprint of your vehicle and is a visual theft deterrent against auto theft. When a vehicle is stolen, the thief must change the identity of the vehicle by changing the VIN identification plate on the dashboard. With a new VIN identification plate in place, he/she now has a new vehicle. BUT, with a vehicle that has its window glass VIN etched, the thief must replace and dispose of each piece of window glass, which drastically cuts into their profit margin. As a thief contemplates stealing your vehicle, they will notice the etching on the glass, and may move on to an unmarked vehicle.
There is no damage to your windows. The process only affects the outer most layer of the glass and does not weaken the window.
The VIN number etched on each piece of glass is only ¼” in height and approximately 2” in width. The numbering has a white color that can be seen within a few feet of your vehicle. Thieves and police officers know where to look for the etching, however, the casual passer-by will not notice.
The process should only take 15 minutes per vehicle. The vehicle owner must show proof of vehicle ownership, current registration and complete a consent form provided by the police department. There is no cost for this service. This event is supported by a grant award from Arizona Auto Theft Authority.
Prescott Valley Police Department can be contacted at (928) 772-9267 for non-emergencies, 911 for emergencies.
