I just got taken for this scam, it was called "Express Code" at the dealership I was at. I didn't realize it was VIN Etching. It was $229, and mixed in between the other 8 forms I had to sign. The funny thing is I don't think they even did it. I picked up the car the day after it was delivered, and they just slapped a sticker on it. Unless the VIN number is hidden, but then what is the point?
See also: Paint and fabric package protection. Nitrogenated tires. Doc fees. "non optional" optional floor mats. Pinstripe Concierge service plan Etching: Theft deterrent? No. Worth more than $20? No. Insurance discount? I'll ask USAA the next time I think about it. If the discount is more than $50 a year, I might have to think about it, but since I will not buy a car from a dealer that does crap like this (without a substantial attempted fraud discount) I've never been able to take an etched window discount. I'll see if there is a $20 kit on line (maybe) and get back.
Funny the last time I had VIN etching done it was $12. The front window was broken a year later by road projectiles and I didn't pay for it to be etched into the replacement window. I did get about $5 discount but since it was only a year it didn't pay for itself. But $229? Unless they are etching other parts than just windows you got ripped off.
Thanks guys! Yeah I recognize the mistake was mine for not spotting it and making a fuss when I signed the paperwork. I contacted the dealership hoping they will make things right. I want to believe they weren't trying to pull one on me, but then again its hard when I paid for something I didn't ever ask for.
My Florida Toyota Dealer in Ocala had two added packages to the sticker price of my vehicle. The Southeast Toyota Distributor's installed options which included the VIN Etch for $1,365 and the local dealer added equip. and services an additional $1,295. I had to fight tooth and nail to get these two removed from my purchase price. This is the worst distributor and dealer added price gouging I've ever seen in a dealer.
MAN! I really feel for you. I was feeling ripped off for having to pay full MSRP for a car. Having to pay 1000's in addition is pretty frustrating. Hopefully you are happy with it! Its still the first week, and I have lots of little gripes, but I am very happy with my choice of this over the Volt or Bolt (my two other real contenders)
When I went to buy a new Prius, the dealer had an additional sticker in the window for $1000. The additions were Scotchgard, pinstriping, floor mats and window etching. I told the salesman to pull the sticker out and we'll deal, which he did. When I got up to the F&I guy, the $1000 was added back on, after I saw the salesman take it off the total. I told Mr. F&I I was walking if it's not taken back off. "Slight mistake, ha ha".
I say, "Fake News." Lowered how much? $0.01? We can count dollars, "lowered" can't be counted. I smell a troll.
? A few bucks a month. The reason for etched windows is to ward to robbers from having to steel parts or the whole car. If they decide to hop the car they would incur the cost of new windows which is something they wouldn't want to do the bat cave
Wow ! I bought my car while it was still on the boat, and I thought that was very silly of me (I just couldn't wait). Now I see that I was lucky that the dealer had not gotten to it !
Like I said before, I checked with my insurance company and was told it gets a $5.00 discount. The etching cost the dealer about $14.00. I also wouldn't be surprised if it could be polished off the glass.
