What is used to describe the alteration of a vehicle's identity by placing a serial number from one vehicle onto another?

The term used to describe the alteration of a vehicle's identity by placing a serial number from one vehicle onto another is referred to as a salvage switch. This illegal activity typically involves taking the vehicle identification number (VIN) from a salvaged or destroyed vehicle and affixing it to a stolen vehicle or a vehicle with a questionable history. The intent behind this practice is to disguise the true origins of the vehicle, making it appear legitimate and allowing it to be sold or re-registered without detection.

Understanding the context of the other options helps clarify the specific nature of a salvage switch. Vehicle registration is a legal process that documents a vehicle's ownership and allows it to be driven on public roads. Stolen identification refers to the act of taking someone's personal identification for fraudulent purposes and does not pertain to vehicles specifically. An MVA certificate, or Motor Vehicle Administration certificate, serves as proof of vehicle registration and compliance within regulations but does not involve altering a vehicle's identity. Therefore, the concept of a salvage switch is distinctly tied to identity alteration as it relates to vehicles and is crucial for understanding criminal investigation parameters in this context.