Can't see VIN?!

[Elan750]

So I moved from MA to RI and am just getting around to registering the 4runner in RI. Since im moving to a new state, RI requires me to get a "Vin check" at the police station. Seems easy.

Truck was rejected! The cop couldnt read the vin number on the dash tag. We tried turning into the shade, flashlight, you can't read the numbers! YOu just see the holographic "TOYOTA" and can barely make out 2 digits. I explained that he can easily read it in the drivers door jamb, as well as every door jamb. He was not interested as thats a "sticker". He then asked me to pop the hood as he said the vin is usually on the engine block too, but we couldnt find one.

Any ideas?! I was thinking of blowing some white powder over the dash plate but then again, white powder on the dash is a little sketchy...

Is the number really etched into the engine block?

Its always the simple things that get hung up

 

[Elan750]

going to try again tomorrow. I found a magnifying glass which helps, ANd I have some flat LED's I can slide into the dash space. Hopefully that works.

 

[oljedi11950]

Don't have prior registration ? Ours has vin on it ! Duh(me) check door jambs call Toy. if not ask em where else .

 

[zeekevin]

look on the front passenger side frame rail, the vin number is there also

 

[simple]

look on the front passenger side frame rail, the vin number is there also

Yeah, it’s etched nice and big there. Like 12inches. It’s in the front wheel well, just in front of where the frame disappears back behind the body.

 

[jrm]

A piece of paper

and sharp pencil? or pencil lead..