Tips for Avoiding Buying a Pre-Owned Car with a Misleading History

Are you in the market for a pre-owned car? If so, you need to be extra cautious to avoid falling victim to odometer fraud. The used car market is booming, with millions of vehicles changing hands each year in the UK alone. However, according to carVertical, a vehicle history checking service, a significant number of these used cars have been clocked.

Clocked cars have had their mileage tampered with to make them appear more attractive to potential buyers. This deceptive practice is not only illegal but can also lead to unsuspecting buyers paying more for a vehicle that is not in the condition they believe it to be.

Matas Buzelis, a motoring expert from carVertical, warns that determining whether a used car has been clocked can be challenging for buyers. Even newer cars with low mileage and few previous owners can be at risk of odometer fraud.

To protect yourself from falling victim to odometer fraud, Buzelis recommends using a vehicle history checking service to verify the car’s mileage. Additionally, he suggests having a professional inspection done on the vehicle to look for signs of wear and tear that do not match the recorded mileage.

When inspecting a used car for sale, pay close attention to signs of high mileage, such as stone chippings, paint fading, and worn interior components. Avoid cars with torn seat fabrics and shiny plastics on commonly touched surfaces, as these could indicate odometer tampering.

Don’t let odometer fraud catch you off guard when buying a used car. Take the necessary precautions to ensure you are getting a reliable vehicle at a fair price. By being vigilant and thorough in your inspection process, you can avoid falling victim to this common scam in the used car market.