As the owner of other restored classic vehicles it was necessary to REPLACE the data or VIN tag on one of these other vehicles. At that time, the California DMV approved the replacement of the tag with no problem as I was able to provide proof of ownership. The car in question, a 1982 300CD has two VIN tags, the one on the A pillar and the one on the door post. It is fairly common for the A pillar tag to break off when the A pillar cover is removed ( necessary when the radio speaker or the dash is removed). As explained to the moderator, had he simply asked a few questions he probably would not have jumped to the conclusion that a law was being broken.

Thanks for your reply and clarification on this issue.