An LS I am looking at has this, wonder if I have to pay the $199 if I find it useless? So what are people's thoughts on this? The car has it, I assume the money they want to charge is to have it monitored but am to sure, awaiting dealer answer.

 

VIN etching is etching the car's vehicle identification number on its windows. It might have some benefit as removing it is a hassle for a car thief, but the issue is that it has a huge profit margin for the dealer, whereas a kit to do the same thing might cost $20. I gather not much labor is involved. In short, I wouldn't pay a dealer for this option.

Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/VIN_etching

 

Thank you, dealer willing to waive the charge, so no downside to me, appreciate your reply.

 

A lot of those dealer options are simply made to increase their profit margin. I have that option on my other car and I think the first owner was suckered considering you cant steal a modern chipped car.

 

It's a ripoff.
Dealers in my area have etching ($199-$299) printed right on the buy sheet along with Doc,MV etc fees.