The experts from Carfax are warning potential buyers of used cars to check odometers. According to Carfax, there is a significant problem with odometer falsification.
Over 2 million cars in America have the wrong reading on the odometer, according to Carfax. The reasons are that people are manipulating the actual number and selling these cars to individuals unaware of this crime.
Buyers looking for used vehicles for sale must be extremely careful that they are not caught up in one of these elusive scams. Unfortunately for buyers, it can be nearly impossible to know for sure if an odometer has been tampered with, but doing an independent inspection, checking the Carfax, and having an expert take a look at the car are three things you can do to double-check the mileage on used vehicles for sale.
Want to know more about how you can avoid being scammed? Read further to learn what you can do moving forward.
How Serious is Changing the Odometer?
Besides being downright awful, altering an odometer gives the used car industry a black eye. Plus, it’s illegal in the United States.
Justice.gov states:
“Altering the mileage reading on a motor vehicle is a felony. Effective July 5, 1994, the odometer tampering statutes were recodified from Title 15, U.S.C., to Title 49.”
Tampering with an odometer is just not worth it. Risking three years in prison or paying a fine up to $10,000 isn’t worth making a couple more bucks on the car you are selling. Unfortunately for used car buyers, it’s nearly impossible to know if an odometer has been tampered with, especially if it’s a digital one. So, what can you do if you are looking for used cars for sale?
Check the Odometer with Carfax
Do yourself a favor, and check Carfax on any used vehicles for sale you are considering buying. The Carfax report will tell you many things about a car, including its odometer reading and whether the vehicle has been in an accident. While this information might not be available or wholly accurate, it will help you make sure you are getting the car you’re buying.
Do an Independent Inspection
Inspecting a used car before buying it is a must. Inspections can vary from simple to thorough. You’ll want to test drive the vehicle, inspect the engine for any wear or damage, and check the undercarriage for rust.
Consult an Expert
Having an expert or specialist might help you determine whether an odometer has been tampered with. While it seems like overkill, an expert can verify whether a car’s engine reflects its odometer reading.
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