What to Do If the Vehicle Frame Number Is Unreadable Due to Rust?

[VonJackson]

Vehicle frame number is an important feature for traffic authorities to clearly identify a vehicle. Before repairing, you must file a record with the vehicle management office. Car owners can first spray rust remover and then use a dry cloth to remove the surface rust. If the steel stamp is deep, you can first spray rust remover, then lightly sand it with No. 0 sandpaper or brush it with a steel wire brush to make an imprint.

[McAdelyn]

I was quite bothered when the VIN on my car started rusting. First, I sprayed rust remover and let it soak for ten minutes, then gently brushed off the surface rust with a soft-bristle brush, and wiped it clean with a cloth. If the number outlines were still visible but rust had accumulated in the recesses, I carefully cleaned the grooves with sandpaper wrapped around a toothpick. Remember, never use power tools to grind it forcefully—thinning the metal would ruin the VIN. After finishing, it’s best to apply some transparent rust-proof wax, and make sure to dry that area after washing the car. Last time, after doing this, my car passed the annual inspection smoothly—it just took a bit of patience.