What to Do When the Chassis Number is Rusted and Unreadable?
2 Answers
Use a cloth dipped in bathroom cleaner and rub it back and forth on the rusted area. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Choose a transparent, non-viscous machine oil, apply it to a cloth, and gently wipe the area. After removing the rust stains, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe off any residual oil from the vehicle body. For example, dilute hydrochloric acid or oxalic acid can be used. However, be careful not to use too much to avoid secondary corrosion. After removing the rust, proper maintenance is essential. If the chassis number is unreadable, you need to go to the vehicle management office to apply for a record and request a new imprint. If the vehicle identification number is worn or rusted, you must visit the vehicle management office to apply for a record.
I once encountered the issue of a rusted and illegible VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), which almost caused my vehicle inspection to fail. I was really worried at that time. Later, I learned a few tricks from a mechanic friend: first, spray some rust remover like WD-40, let it soak for about 5 minutes, then gently sand the rusted area with fine sandpaper—be careful not to press too hard to avoid damaging the numbers. If the rust is too severe, it's best to go to a 4S shop or a professional repair shop, as they have acid-washing tools to handle it safely. For regular car maintenance, I now periodically check the VIN location and apply some anti-rust paste or Vaseline as a preventive measure, especially after the rainy season. This number is extremely important—if it's unreadable, you might face issues with vehicle transfers, insurance, or even fines during inspections. Addressing it promptly can save a lot of trouble, so don’t delay!
