How to Take a Rubbing of a Faint VIN?
2 Answers
First, clean and dry the area where the VIN is located. Then evenly apply red ink paste onto the VIN. Place a transparent adhesive tape over the VIN. Press evenly with a towel and peel off the adhesive tape, then stick it onto a white sheet of paper. Finally, cut out the VIN. Use carbon paper to rub back and forth over the engine number area. After stacking the carbon paper with the white paper, press them firmly against the engine and VIN, then press the white paper with your fingers to similarly obtain a rubbing of the number impression. Place a thin white sheet of paper over the engine number and VIN, then lightly rub horizontally with a pencil to obtain the required number impression, which can be glued onto the registration form. Alternatively, first apply red ink paste over the engine number or VIN, then cover with a thin white sheet of paper. After gently pressing with your fingers, remove the required number impression for rubbing.
I enjoy tinkering with my car in my spare time, and the VIN being too shallow for rubbing is indeed troublesome. I've tried it myself a few times. First, you need to thoroughly clean the area around the number, using an old toothbrush or a soft cloth to remove dust and rust, otherwise the rubbing will be even more blurred. Then, find a piece of rubbing paper or plain white paper, press it onto the area and gently rub with a pencil, being careful not to press too hard to avoid damaging the frame. If the number is still unclear, you can spray some chalk dust or wax powder to enhance the contrast, making the grooves more visible. It's best to do the rubbing in good lighting, take your time, and try a few times until it's clear. After rubbing, check if it's usable, such as for vehicle registration or insurance documents. I recommend regularly cleaning the VIN area to prevent rust from worsening the problem. This DIY method is both cost-effective and convenient, suitable for hands-on car owners like me. Remember, be gentle and patient to avoid damaging the number.
