Kirtland AFB Security Forces to join with APD for free VIN etching Published Aug. 30, 2012 By Tech. Sgt. Wayne Sharp 377th Security Forces Squadron KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- The Albuquerque Police Department is joining with the 377th Security Forces Squadron Crime Prevention Office at Kirtland AFB to provide free vehicle identification number etching services from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 8 in the Exchange parking lot. VIN etching is the permanent engraving of a vehicle's federally registered vehicle identification number onto its windshield and windows. Dealerships typically charge $300 for the service. Police departments and insurance agencies recommend VIN etching to protect against auto theft. Cars and trucks are usually stolen for resale value or individual parts. VIN etching deters thieves because it makes it nearly impossible for them to sell windows and windshields, and it makes it more difficult for them to dispose of stolen vehicles. Before selling a stolen vehicle, a thief would have to replace the VIN-etched glass, a time-consuming and expensive task. If a thief tries to sell the parts from a vehicle for profit, the VIN-etched parts pose a higher risk for both the thief and the disreputable auto parts seller. Therefore, the reduced profit and high risk associated with stealing a VIN-etched car make it a less likely target for theft. Some insurance companies offer a discount on the comprehensive portion of auto insurance or waive deductibles for vehicles protected by VIN etching. For more information about VIN etching, call Tech. Sgt. Wayne Sharp or Senior Airman Tanya Olsen at 846-6209.