Vehicle Identification Number stands for "VIN".
This vin number is a universal serial number provided to every car by the
vehicle manufacturer. Within the 17-digit number are different codes that
indicate the car's make and model, a serial number, where the vehicle was
manufactured, and even information about optional add-ons such as a sun
roof.
VIN Check Warnings
When buying a previously owned car, there are many ways for you to get
a bad deal from both a dealer and a private seller.
Odometers may be rolled back thousands of miles. It is against the law
in most states, but it is easy to do. It is still a major problem in used
cars today.
Be wary if the previous owner will not or cannot show you the past repair
records or identity of any former owners. If the title seems suspicious,
go somewhere else.
If an auto is shipped from out-of-state or received in trade from another
dealer.
A Used Car Extended Warranty
offers. An extended car warranty from a auto warranty company can
be a lifesaver when your vehicle breaks down unexpectantly. A car
warranty is much like insurance for auto repairs. It's a well known
fact that used cars do not come with warranties - and many of them
break down the first month of ownership!
South Korea Car Industry
Date: Mar 18, 2005
Contributor: Louisa Fahy
South Korean steelmakers are poised to raise prices of their products, dealing an additional blow to the local car industry already suffering from a strong currency, industry sources said Monday.
POSCO , the nation's largest steelmaker, is set to raise its cold-rolled steel sheets by 8.6 per cent from April 1, with other steel makers reported to follow suit soon.
The envisioned increase is expected to cost Hyundai Motor Co. and its affiliate Kia Motors Corp. (KSE:00270) more than 200 billion won (US$ 199.8 million) in additional expenses, according to the sources.
The two carmakers, affiliated with Hyundai Motor Group (KSE:05380), account for 75 per cent of domestic car production.
"Though the strengthening won can be dealt with by diversifying export destinations, rising steel prices are sure to affect the production cost of automobiles, eroding their earnings," said a car industry official on condition of anonymity.
The rise in steel prices is also expected to force carmakers to lift their export prices, which may make their products less appealing in global market.
Hyundai Motor raised its export prices in January by $50-500, and intends to further hike prices as a result of the increase in steel prices.
Domestic steelmakers say they have no choice but to jack up product prices owing to a surge in import prices of ore.
The won's sharp rise against the greenback is feared to hurt South Korean exports by lowering their price competitiveness overseas. The Korean currency has already risen more than 3 per cent against the dollar this year.
