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As the UK government considers implementing a pay-per-mile car tax, concerns are mounting over a potential surge in odometer fraud. Car experts at Ovoko, a European car parts marketplace, warn that the new road tax model could incentivise unscrupulous sellers to wind back the mileage readings to vehicle excise duty, leaving unsuspecting buyers at risk.
Odometer fraud, also known as “clocking”, involves altering a vehicle’s mileage reading to make it appear less used than it actually is. If undisclosed to buyers, this practice can deceive new owners about the car’s true condition and illegally enables sellers to command higher prices than the vehicle is worth.
“The pay-per-mile tax, which would see car owners pay extra depending on how much they drive, is rumoured to be on the upcoming budget agenda, pencilled in for October 30th,” says Vytas Palovis, VP of Growth at Ovoko. “Though little is known about its mechanism, the pay-per-mile tax could inadvertently fuel a rise in odometer tampering. As drivers look for ways to minimise their road tax burden, some may resort to illegal methods, which can have serious safety and financial implications for car buyers.”
To help consumers protect themselves from falling victim to odometer fraud, Ovoko offers three essential tips:
Tip 1: Conduct a Thorough Vehicle History Check
Before purchasing a used car, always obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report from a reputable source. These reports can reveal discrepancies in mileage records by comparing the odometer readings recorded during previous MOT tests and services. Look out for any irregularities or sudden drops in mileage, which could indicate tampering.
Additionally, verifying the vehicle’s service history and past ownership can provide further insight into its true condition. You could ask the owner for the car’s chassis number, also known as vehicle identification number (VIN), and obtain a hire purchase information (HPI) report, usually costing around ten pounds, which could explicitly indicate mileage discrepancies. If the owner is reluctant to offer it, you might be able to find the 17-character code displayed on the bottom of the windscreen or the driver’s door shut.
Tip 2: Inspect Physical Signs of Wear and Tear
Examine the vehicle for signs of wear that may not align with the displayed mileage. Excessive wear on the steering wheel, pedals, gear knob, and driver’s seat can suggest higher or more strenuous usage than indicated. Pay special attention to the condition of the odometer itself; signs of interference, such as misaligned digits or scratches around the dashboard, could be red flags. Consider asking a trusted mechanic to inspect the vehicle for any inconsistencies.
Tip 3: Utilise Technology and Professional Services
Leverage technology to your advantage by using diagnostic tools that can read the vehicle’s electronic data. Some modern cars store mileage data in multiple electronic control units (ECUs), not just the odometer, making it harder to disguise true mileage completely. Hiring a professional service to conduct a pre-purchase inspection can help uncover hidden issues, including potential odometer fraud. These experts are trained to spot signs that a layperson might miss, providing an extra layer of protection.
“By staying vigilant and utilising all available resources, car buyers can significantly reduce the risk of purchasing a vehicle with falsified mileage,” adds Palovis. “Car clocking can affect your wallet and have safety implications, as the previous owner may have skipped critical maintenance.”
In the UK, it is illegal to tamper with a car’s odometer for financial gain and not disclose this information to a prospective buyer. Digital odometers are especially susceptible to manipulation. There are instances when odometer correction is legal, such as the rare occasions when it is faulty. If this happens, it is best to have the car serviced and fixed at an official dealership and have these logged officially. This would render more credibility to cautious buyers.
