[Dream4]

Originally Posted by batlin

I was told the VIN was for the key chip security device our cars use. If it does not match the car will start but no fuel will flow and it will shut off quickly if the VIN does not match.

The price did go up late last year too. I bought mine from haynes speed shop:
HaynesSpeed Shop :: Chrysler PT Cruiser :: Turbo Upgrades :: PT Cruiser Stage 1 Turbo Upgrade Kit
I installed mine in about 20 minutes. It is a nice upgrade, but the price is kind of steep now @ $460 + shipping

The VIN is used it id several things besides the SKIM code (Sentry Key Immobilizer Module} it also tells them if you have an Auto Stick or just a plain Auto trans as the trans controller is in the PCM after 2002, also differences in instrument cluster read outs for the Auto stick display, the 120 or 140 speedo, there are also a few sensor differences for all years between the 180, (220, & 230 hp engines for '05), and the Stage 1 is programed to make its power with the available parts for each year, also if you have factory cruise control and factory air conditioning, so the VIN is for a whole lot of different things, I had this same question when I bought mine and after a rather long conversation and several emails with a very nice lady at Flight Research (before they moved to thier new location), I learned a lot about the Stage 1 programming, I hope this helps some.