Auto Manufacturers Running Out Of Unique IDs

wakebrdr writes "Y2K all over again? A story in today's Detroit News explains how the vehicle ID numbering system (VIN) will soon run out of unique numbers. According to the article, a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers says, 'Longer codes would require a major overhaul of computer systems that would dwarf the challenges and expenses spawned by the Y2K computer dilemma.' Golly, if it's that serious maybe I should start stocking up on MREs and ammunition in preparation for the day the assembly lines come to a screeching halt."

Comments

Re:Extend the character set?

[DAldredge]

No, it will not cost more in the long run if done correctly. You write a standard and say in 10 - 20 years the new standard will take effect. When new systems are bought/written design them so they can use the old style and the new style vins. When the 10 - 20 years is up you switch.

That isn't nearly as disruptive.