EtchGuard Promises 'Big Profit With Small Numbers'
According to Gerard Marino, company president and founder of EtchGuard International, anti-theft VIN etching can mean big profit with small numbers.
EtchGuard recently announced the release of its new VinTech 2.0 VIN etch program.
"Even though VIN etching sells for the relatively small amount of $129-$149, it allows even an average sized dealership to realize a substantial monthly profit because of its extremely low cost, under $7 per vehicle, and high penetration rate," Marino told F&I Management and Technology.
“Even the average car buyer is aware that auto theft is a business and its thriving,” Marino said. The latest FBI Uniform Crime Report (1999) showed that auto theft continues at a rate well above 1 million vehicles and costs in excess of $7 billion per year, according to Marino.
For more information on VinTech and EtchGuard’s other products, visit www.etchguard.com or call 1-800-446-3136.
More F&I

Why Your F&I PVR Is Misleading You
Here’s a handy checklist of the numbers to track in 2026 instead.
Read More →
Auto Consumer Anxiety Presents Opportunity
A survey of U.S. drivers found the majority are concerned about finances and the economy, but those fears make many ready to buy vehicle-protection products.
Read More →
Humble and Hungry: 12 Rules for an F&I Life
Dustin Gingerich, with a decade in the F&I business under his belt, shares his thoughts on leadership, building trust with customers, and the importance of learning and innovation.
Read More →
Focus on the Opening
F&I managers must learn as much as possible about their customers, starting before they walk into their offices. The bulk of today’s consumers expect that, and good results will follow.
Read More →
F&I Reaches for the Sky
The increasingly important profit center continued making gains in the first quarter, according to StoneEagle data, ancillary products proving more popular as consumers hold onto their buys longer.
Read More →
Timing the Market Can Hurt Long-Term Program Performance
For dealer-owned reinsurance entities, avoiding volatility entirely can mean falling behind inflation and missing market rebounds that drive long term surplus growth. Missing just a handful of strong market days can materially impact cumulative returns—an important reminder for long horizon trust and investment strategies.
Read More →
The 90/10 Rule
In this video, Ryan Ruff explains the rule that elite sales professionals use to turn ordinary conversations into unforgettable customer experiences.
Read More →
Your Office Is Talking
What’s the atmosphere saying about you to your customers? You can make minor adjustments and additions that transform your space into one that creates trust with the people on the other side of the desk.
Read More →
F&I Training Fundamentals
How can auto dealerships help F&I managers fulfill their vital role in the most effective ways? Industry expert Rick McCormick shares his insights on the best ways to train these professionals and help them maintain good habits.
Read More →
Not Just Any Tire Will Do
More consumers and businesses are opting for all-season options for various reasons as safety, sustainability and convenience push practical change.
Read More →