Vendors asking for VIN
 

I went on a buying binge recently trying to get ready for DGRR07 and noticed that two vendors (I think both sponsors here, but not sure) asked for my VIN. One asked so as to ensure order accuracy (reasonable) and one asked so that they could win some contest (also "reasonable" given the email history I have had with the vendor.) I am not complaining, per se. I do see that if they keep these records, it might be detrimental to your warrenty, but my warrenty went bye-bye a long time ago. I dont see how this could be detrimental to the customer, i.e., scam/ID theft, but I am curious to know how this info benefits the vendor.

Please comment.

i know that i dont ask for VIN numbers =P

I am not accusing anyone of anything. I am just curious why someone would do this? Is this practice acceptable?

I didnt buy anything from you. SHould I have? :)

i have noticed when there is a color choice.

beers :beer:

since its a japanese mazda the vin tells you everything the car had on it when it left the factory in japan. it pretty much makes sure you get the right part.

the issue of fraud imo is a little bit of a moot point, you can see the vin just walking by the car, and then most dmv's will sell you the registration info if you have the license plate.

I think it's mainly for color choice........example........some folks don't know the difference between Silver and Ti-Gray. This is to not even mention the differences in a given color between years.