A Taxing Problem

Dear Wheelspin
RE: Historical Vehicle Tax Exemption - Vehicle Registration Office Rules Query. I own a Type 2 first registered 23/3/73 and I am really confused about the current position having received conflicting information from the DVLA.
I was advised that a cut off rule for vehicles registered after 1972 now applies? Can you please clarify the position. In addition, if the vehicle was manufactured before 1973 (i.e. before the date of first registration in the UK) and this can be proved, via for example the chassis number, will the VRO allow tax exemption?
The VIN/Chassis Number is: 322182682.
Thank you for your attention

Regards Giff Banks

As per July' 1998's copy of Wheelspin..... Type 2 - Campers. You should find that you have a 10 digit number. The first four indicate the body type, model year and the fact that its from the 1970's. Campers were not made in the VW factory itself and would have left there as vans, Kombis or minibuses, depending on the specification demanded by the many different companies who carried out the camper conversions. So for 1973 model year Type 2's, the first three digits will tell you it is (was): 213 = panel van, 223 = 8-seat microbus, 233 = Kombi, 243 = Clipper or Microbus L-8 seater, 253 = Microbus L- 7 seater, 263 = Pick-up, 273 = Ambulance or 183 = Microbus 7 seater,. The fourth digit will be a 2. The last 6 digits are sequential, starting from 000 001 on 1st August. The last van built on 31st December 1972 had the number 102 496. So if your van/camper/pick up has a chassis number before 2*32 102496, you qualify for a free tax disc, if its higher, you don't.

Dear Wheelspin

Regarding Ray Leyden's letter in the December Wheelspin about the problems he is experiencing with his insurance company and getting his car repaired. I was in a similar situation recently and I was able to sort my problem out and get my car (a fully restored 20 year old Maxi) repaired with the help of a company called Help Hire UK Ltd. Basically, for a fee of £10, Help Hire will sue the Insurance company of the 'other' car for the cost of repair or value of the car plus any personal injury claim. My claim was settled successfully and I can recommend this company - definitely £10 well spent. The address of this company is

Help Hire UK Ltd.
Church Farm
Business Park
Corston, Bath
BA2 9AP
TEL: 01225 875 300