This is written with no specific persons response in mind, but as a
clarification of my own knowledge of the subject of vehicle title regulation.
The name "VIN" is simply short for Vehicle Identification Number, which
has been on vehicles since at least the Model A Ford, if not the T.
Before it was called a serial number. Same thing. Ever since the
stealing of cars became a major crime, rather than a misdemeanor, the
states have insisted on registration (taxes) and identification (theft).
Regardless of what you call it, there are laws on the books of most
states forbidding tampering with the vehicle serial number (VIN), for
these reasons. This is to prevent fraud, and rebuilding totaled wrecks,
or stolen cars recycled with scrapped ID. The fact that some states do
NOT verify whether the vehicle has been a salvaged wreck as a renumbered
stolen car does not make it any less painful when it moves to a state
that does enforce laws of property title and theft.
California is very strict about chop shops, tampered serial numbers,
resurrected cars that have been declared "totaled", etc. And this is the
norm across most of the country. And way before the "serial number"
began to be called the "vehicle identification number". Same thing.
On the other hand, most identification numbers were stamped into the
frame, rather than pop-riveted to the firewall. So this muddies the
issue of whether the motor vehicle control authority, or law
enforcement, can even ascertain whether the laws have been broken. This
is so, even though the law specifically forbids removal or replacement
of seriaL numbers, no matter how they are named.
In this state (CA), they know nothing about "original rivets", but they
do know about identification numbers (from ANY year car) that have been
declare "totaled". They will NOT register a car with that ID. They will
insists on proof of legal ownership of the car, and insist on the
receipts for all non-original equipment, such as a motor transplant.
This is especially true of "kit cars", and restorations.
So, make sure you know what your own state laws are, and how they are
regulated and enforced, or you may have a "STATE ISSUED ID" at the very
least. An impounded motor vehicle, or a demand of proof that you legally
have a right to own the vehicle. Out of state vehicles being registered
are even tougher, as the original vehicle titles from other states must
be traceable.
Vehicle theft is classified as a major property crime, not a misdemeanor.
Don't assume that any individuals experience is indicative of the law in
your own state. Check it out. Call the equivalent of the State Police,
Motor Vehicle Department, whatever, to find the law and how it is
applied. A VIN is a serial number, is a controlled property item with a
state ownership TITLE, and subject to applicable laws. Not minor, but
major property.
I am NOT an attorney, but have lived with this for over 50 years, and
experienced hard luck stories from personal friends.
Steve
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Steve Laifman
Editor
<http://www.TigersUnited.com>
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