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HOMESERVICE MANUALSACURA20043.5RLREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISQUICK LOOKUPSTECHNICAL BULLETINSTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINSIDENTIFICATIONRE-STAMPED BULKHEAD VIN? IT'S NOT A PROBLEM VEHICLE (ASN0404-09)
2004 Acura 3.5RL

Re-Stamped Bulkhead VIN? It's Not A Problem Vehicle (ASN0404-09)

2004 Acura 3.5RLSECTION Re-Stamped Bulkhead VIN? It's Not A Problem Vehicle (ASN0404-09)
Publication date: 2004-04-01
Reference number: ASN0404-09

RE-STAMPED BULKHEAD VIN? IT'S NOT A PROBLEM VEHICLE

RE-STAMPED BULKHEAD VIN? IT'S NOT A PROBLEM VEHICLE

ACURA SERVICE NEWS

Reference Number(s): ASN0404-09, Date of Issue:  April 1, 2004
ACURA: All Models
CATEGORY: Acura Service News
APPLIES TO: All Models

SERVICE INFORMATION

If you see a bulkhead VIN with an X  , a V  , or a /  through a character and a different character above it, there's no need for concern. It's not a problem vehicle.

Fig 1: View Of Repaired Mis-Stamp
G00229491Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

In rare cases, the factory can mis-stamp the bulkhead VIN. It's not practical to scrap the chassis for such an error.

To repair a mis-stamped bulkhead VIN, the factory takes these steps, which are endorsed by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB):

  1. The incorrect character is stamped over with an X  , a V  or a /  .
  2. The correct character is stamped directly above the incorrect character.
  3. The repaired VIN is repainted if necessary to eliminate any suspicion of fraud.
  4. The factory sends VIN change info to American Honda. This info is then shared with the NICB.

The NICB keeps a database of factory-repaired VINs. Theft investigators and law enforcement agencies can access this database to check a suspicious-looking VIN.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.