I was thinking, again, about the location on my VIN number (under the hood only) vs. a VIN at the base of the windshield. What started this is when I was puled over a few years ago in my CJ because the color didn't match the DMV records. The officer needed to see the VIN, which is under the hood on the firewall. I will get to my legal question later.
My main question is when did the VIN be required to be at the base of the windshield? Or does it? I have searched and have found no answer. The 70 Road Runner at the front of the shop has it at the base of the windshield and also riveted on the inner fender. My 77' Cherk and the 80" CJ have it only riveted to the firewall. My 88' GW had it at the base of the windshield.
As far as legal issues. If an officer wants to see the VIN and it is only on the firewall, does that constitute a search requiring a warrant? Older officers will know that the VIN isn't always in a location that can be seen, but I am afraid of getting a citation, maybe even towed, from an officer who will think that I have obscured or moved the VIN.
Just some random thoughts.