Did you ever need to replace your car’s windshield after a pebble was thrown up at it? Flying at speeds of 60 mph, it’s hard to believe that a tiny little rock can cause so much damage, but it can. If you’ve got windshield coverage on your car’s auto policy, it’s not too much of a monetary problem as it is a hassle. But if you don’t have coverage, you’ve probably discovered windshields are pretty darn expensive. And anything that is expensive is certainly worth stealing; hence, it’s worth protecting, isn’t it?

Believe it or not, windshields and even side and back windows are quite easily stolen and sold for parts. Using VIN etching as a countermeasure is one way to keep your windshields and windows where they belong - on your car.

VIN etching is a simple process, using a stencil and an acid-based glass etching paste you merely imprint or etch your Vehicle Identification Number onto the windshield or window. Statistics prove that cars with etched VINs not only get stolen less than non-etched cars, but have a better chance of recovery. Insurance companies may offer a discount for VIN etching, and as a counter-measure to theft, it is endorsed by several insurers as well as police stations across the country.

You can go to a dealership and have this done (for a fairly hefty chunk of cash, no doubt) or you can do it yourself with a simple home kit. The old adage, “measure twice, cut once” can be paraphrased here… “check (your VIN) twice, etch it once” because you don’t get a second chance unless you happen to have a spare.