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Topic: Replacing missing VIN tag

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Replacing missing VIN tag (1/5)
 4/7/25 4:34pm
rep69
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Suffolk, VA - USA

Vette(s):
1969 convertible 427 4speed


Joined: 7/24/2012
Posts: 137

I own a 1969 and I noticed the vin tag has fallen off.  I have owned the car for 12 years and it has a clean title.  Has anyone been in a similar situation?  Any suggestions?   aftermarket company to reproduce the metal tag? Thanks

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Re: Replacing missing VIN tag (2/5)
 4/7/25 6:48pm
Adam WartellLifetime Member
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Eagleville, PA - USA

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Used to own a 1979 Corvette now owned by JB79


Joined: 11/1/2001
Posts: 18294

Are you talking about the one on the dash under the windshield?

My understanding is that you'll have to get the DMV involved. I've never had to deal with this personally, so maybe someone on here will.



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Re: Replacing missing VIN tag (3/5)
 4/7/25 9:36pm
Adams' AppleLifetime Member
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Duncanville, TX - USA

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#1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/ Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight" #2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas


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😯 The VIN plate behind the windshield doesn't normally just "fall off". Is the "A" pillar area rusted out enough for that to happen? Did it have the VIN plate when you bought it? IF the plate is still in the car somewhere, it could be reinstalled, but....it takes special "rosette" rivets to rivet it back on, and be legal. It would also require removing the windshield to replace it. Of course, if the A pillar is that rusted, you might not have anyplace to put it. Without the VIN in place, the car could be impounded by law enforcement, and you could loose. it. 

If you cannot find the plate with the original VIN, you could be in for a long legal fight if it is discovered. Replacement VINs are available from your state DMV, but you will have to prove you own the vehicle. The state will have to inspect the car, and locate the "hidden" VINs stamped on the frame to verify it matches the paperwork you have. If they eventually decide it is legit, they will issue a replacement VIN, but....it will NOT be the same as the original, in number OR appearance. This could make it hard to sell later on if you want to sell it. It's a big mess. My suggestion would be to try to find the plate if it has truly fallen off, and fell down into the dash area. Then go from there. Good luck! 



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Re: Replacing missing VIN tag (4/5)
 4/8/25 9:44am
rep69
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Suffolk, VA - USA

Vette(s):
1969 convertible 427 4speed


Joined: 7/24/2012
Posts: 137

Thanks for the reply

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Re: Replacing missing VIN tag (5/5)
 4/8/25 9:49am
rep69
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Suffolk, VA - USA

Vette(s):
1969 convertible 427 4speed


Joined: 7/24/2012
Posts: 137

Thanks for the reply and info.  There is no rust on the A pillar.  It has been in several shops over the last few years. It is difficult to  find a repair shop in the Norfolk, Va area that will work on c3 corvettes.  I am looking to get rid of the car legally. I will look into asking a lawyer for advice.

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