HONDA has launched a new initiative to cut car theft and the thriving trade in bogus vehicle identification number (VIN) plates. The company has set up a new procedure for recording plate changes. It means a replacement VIN, which is riveted to the bulkhead, can be supplied only when there is a legitimate need to replace the original - such as if it is damaged. Details of any Honda which has a replacement plate fitted will be added to the company's database.

Any Honda fitted with a 'spurious' VIN plate, such as that available from mail-order companies, would not be on the database and could be easily identified by prospective buyers or the police. A Honda plate cannot be supplied if a vehicle has been written-off, improperly repaired or where its history cannot be determined.