Buying a used car with low mileage can be an excellent way to get a reliable vehicle at a good price. However, it is essential to verify the mileage to ensure you’re getting what you expect. Some sellers may tamper with odometers to show lower readings, so doing your homework is critical. This guide will help you learn how to check the mileage on a used car and spot any signs of tampering.
Why Verifying Mileage Matters
Mileage directly affects the car’s condition, resale value, and performance. Vehicles with lower mileage often retain their value longer because they typically experience less wear and tear. If you want to explore more on this topic, see Why Low Mileage Cars Hold Their Value Longer.
However, some sellers may manipulate odometer readings to make a vehicle appear more desirable. Buying a car with inaccurate mileage can lead to unexpected repair costs and poor performance. Therefore, verifying the mileage is essential for making a safe and informed purchase.
Steps to Verify Mileage on a Used Car
1. Check the Odometer Reading
The first step is to inspect the car’s odometer. In modern vehicles, the odometer is digital, making it harder to tamper with. However, you should still ensure the displayed mileage makes sense based on the car’s age and condition.
- Tip: If the car looks heavily worn (e.g., worn-out seats, pedals, or steering wheel) but shows low mileage, it might be a red flag.
2. Review the Service and Maintenance Records
Regular service records provide a reliable trail of the car’s mileage history. Look for maintenance records that mention the car’s mileage at the time of service.
- Consistent records that align with the odometer reading help confirm the mileage.
- Missing or irregular entries might indicate mileage tampering.
If the seller provides partial service records, try contacting the service providers directly to verify the information.
3. Use a VIN Check Service
Using a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check service like Vin Check allows you to pull up the vehicle’s history. A VIN check shows mileage records, ownership history, and whether the car was involved in accidents.
For Australian buyers, a REVS check (currently changed to PPSR Check) will confirm if the car has any outstanding loans or if it was written off. The VIN report can reveal if the car’s mileage has been rolled back, providing peace of mind during your purchase.
4. Compare Mileage with Vehicle History Reports
In addition to VIN checks, vehicle history reports from services like Carfax or AutoCheck in other countries can provide valuable mileage insights. These reports collect data from repair shops, insurance claims, and inspections, making it harder for sellers to hide the real mileage.
- Look for mileage entries from inspections or emissions tests in these reports. Discrepancies between the report and the odometer reading can indicate tampering.
5. Inspect the Wear and Tear
Physical signs of wear and tear can give clues about the car’s true mileage. Compare the car’s condition with what you’d expect based on the displayed mileage.
- Steering Wheel and Pedals: Excessive wear on these parts could indicate higher mileage.
- Seats and Carpets: Faded or torn upholstery suggests heavy use.
- Engine Bay: Check for excessive oil leaks or worn components, which may hint at high mileage.
6. Use Diagnostic Tools to Check Mileage
If you’re suspicious of the odometer reading, some mechanics can use diagnostic tools to retrieve data from the car’s computer. Certain modern vehicles store mileage in multiple modules, and mechanics can compare the readings to check for inconsistencies.
- This advanced method provides more certainty, especially when buying expensive used cars or vehicles with digital odometers.
7. Ask for Previous Registration Certificates
In many countries, registration certificates show the car’s mileage at the time of each registration renewal. Cross-check the mileage entries in these certificates with the current odometer reading.
If the seller refuses to provide registration records or the information is inconsistent, it could be a sign of odometer tampering.
8. Consider Certified Pre-Owned Cars
Buying a certified pre-owned (CPO) car reduces the risk of odometer fraud. CPO vehicles undergo strict inspections and come with warranties, making them a safer option for buyers looking for low mileage cars.
To explore the best CPO options, check out Is It Better to Buy a Low Mileage Car or a New Car?.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Inconsistent Records: Gaps in the service history or vehicle reports may indicate tampering.
- Outdated Odometer Technology: Older cars with manual odometers are easier to manipulate.
- Price Too Good to Be True: If the price seems unusually low for the car's mileage, dig deeper into the car's history.
The Importance of REVS and VIN Checks
Odometer fraud isn’t just limited to mileage; it may indicate other issues such as hidden debts or accident history. That’s why performing a REVS check is essential to uncover any financial encumbrances on the car. A VIN check can provide additional information, giving you a complete picture of the vehicle’s history.
Using services like REVS check or Vin Check ensures you avoid purchasing a problematic car and get the best value for your investment.
Related article: The Power of PPSR Check in WA: Recent News and Its Impact on Vehicle Buyers
Conclusion: Protect Yourself Before Buying
Verifying the mileage of a used car is a crucial step to ensure you’re making a smart investment. Odometer fraud can lead to costly repairs and reduce the car’s value. By following the steps outlined in this guide—such as reviewing service records, using VIN check services, and inspecting the car’s condition—you can avoid buying a vehicle with tampered mileage.
Whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealership, diligence is key to finding a good deal. For peace of mind, always conduct a thorough background check, including a REVS or VIN check, before making your purchase. With the right approach, you can confidently invest in a low mileage car that serves you well for years to come.
Next article: Is Financing a Pre-Owned Vehicle a Smart Choice?