I should edit my original post, but we didn't spend the entire 8 hours just flying approaches. Basic instrument flying was covered, and demonstrated before moving onto approaches.
I flew a lot of the 50 XC hours under the hood with an instrument rated pilot, and we filed IFR.
This was only after I had around 8 hours dual with a CFII on how to fly approaches.
For the written I used Sheppard Air, and The Instrument Flight Manual
I could see owning something small, and then renting once or twice a year for a family trip.
I rent a car most of the time for really long trips.
You might run into issues of being current/competent in whatever aircraft you plan on renting.
Someone needs to start a database of what Dr. does what, and make an Iphone/andriod app.
I would hate to go see every Dr. in Charlotte and they all grab my balls.
I do not own this, but you might want to consider
http://www.monoprice.com/Product/?c_id=117&cp_id=11704&cs_id=1170401&p_id=10629&seq=1&format=3#specification
I've given it out online to help people run a carfax and get insurance quotes. Whatever it takes to sell the car.
I am not aware of any VIN scams, and a car dealer lists all of their VINs online.