just noticed some numbers and letters etched on all my windows

[StratGreg]

Picked up this car a couple weeks ago. Could it be some sort of security measure from the previous owner(s)? It looks like thats a phone number. I called it, no help there. All the glass panels that have this etching also have the OEM Audi printing as well. Any help would be appreciated!

[LJH]

That is most defiantly a anti theft measure. When I bough the new company car they did this without asking and tried to charge me $200. I did a little research and you can buy a DIY kit for $19.95. The dealer folded on the charge pretty quick.

Cheers,
Jim

[93hrdtptt]

It's window etching

-> from how stuff works

Alarm systems and window etching: Sure, you want to protect your car from car thieves, but with the amount of money most dealerships charge for the system you could hire a guard to watch your car. You can get an alarm system installed at most reputable auto shops that's just as good as the one the dealer would install. This can often save you over $500.

Window etching is when they etch the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on all of the vehicle's windows to deter car thieves and help in the recovery of a stolen car. Having the numbers etched on the windows forces the thief to replace all of the windows in order to disguise the vehicle's true identification.

A car with VIN etching

Many insurance companies will give you better rates if your vehicle has VIN etching. Many police departments also recommend it because it makes it easier to trace your car. Now, with that said, do you need to pay the dealership hundreds of dollars to do it? Not really. There are companies that sell the supplies to do it yourself for about $20 or $30, and it only takes a few minutes.

If the car is already etched, it's the same deal as with the other add-ons. Negotiate the cost down to something reasonable. Sure, they took the time to etch the windows and deserve payment for that, but you know the cost of the supplies and how long it takes to do it. Make your offer based on that information.

[B-Time]

Called the number and Royal Guard answered. http://www.royalguardtp.com/.

[jfunkey]

That is most defiantly a anti theft measure. When I bough the new company car they did this without asking and tried to charge me $200. I did a little research and you can buy a DIY kit for $19.95. The dealer folded on the charge pretty quick.

Cheers,
Jim

2nd I did the same

[seadooo21]

JFunk,

Was the VIN etched on your glass, or some other numbers?