The Importance of a Car Mileage Check
Buying a used car can be a smart way to save money, but it comes with risks—especially when it comes to the car’s mileage. Odometer fraud, also known as "clocking," is a widespread issue that can leave you with unexpected repair costs and a vehicle that’s not worth its price.
To avoid these pitfalls, a mileage check is essential. Check the odometer reading and look at the vehicle history report. This way, you can confirm the miles shown are correct. You will then be able to make a smart choice about your purchase.
In this guide, we will show you how to check a car’s mileage. You will learn to spot odometer fraud. We will also explain how to use tools like the Carista OBD2 Scanner. This will help you find out the true distance a vehicle has traveled.
Why Is a Mileage Check Important?
A car’s mileage is a key indicator of its wear and tear. The higher the total miles, the more likely the vehicle has experienced significant use, which can impact its reliability, safety, and resale value.
However, some sellers tamper with the odometer reading to make the car appear less used, a practice known as odometer fraud. This deception can cost buyers thousands of dollars in repairs and maintenance.
By performing a thorough mileage check, you can verify the total distance the car has traveled and ensure you’re not overpaying for a vehicle that’s been clocked.
What Is Odometer Fraud?
Odometer fraud occurs when a seller alters the odometer reading to display a lower number of miles than the car has actually traveled. This practice is especially common in the car market, where low mileage is often associated with better condition and higher value.
With the rise of digital odometers, tampering has become more sophisticated, making it harder for buyers to detect fraud without the right tools.
Odometer Fraud Statistics
United Kingdom
In the UK, odometer fraud affects approximately 2.5 million vehicles, costing consumers up to £800 million annually (RAC). Despite advancements in digital odometer technology, fraudsters continue to find ways to manipulate mileage readings.
United States
In the US, the NHTSA estimates that 450,000 cars are sold each year with false odometer readings, costing consumers over $1 billion. This widespread issue highlights the importance of conducting a mileage check before purchasing a used car.
How to Perform a Real Mileage Check
To avoid falling victim to odometer fraud, follow these steps to verify a car’s mileage:
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Check the Odometer Reading: Look at the current odometer reading. Compare it with the vehicle’s service records, MOT certificates, and vehicle history report. Discrepancies in the number of miles could indicate tampering.
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Use an OBD2 Scanner: Tools like the Carista OBD2 Scanner help you access your car’s electronic control units (ECUs). You can get accurate mileage data with this tool. This method is more reliable than relying solely on the dashboard display.
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Check MOT Test Records: In the UK, MOT test certificates show the total miles recorded during each test. These records are difficult to alter and provide a trustworthy mileage history.
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Conduct a VIN Check: Use the vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to access a detailed vehicle history report. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can provide insights into the car’s mileage history and any reported incidents.
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Inspect the Vehicle’s Condition: Look for signs of excessive wear and tear that don’t align with the displayed mileage. For example, worn-out pedals or a faded steering wheel on a low-mileage car could be red flags.
How the Carista OBD2 Scanner Helps Detect Odometer Fraud
The Carista OBD2 Scanner is an affordable and effective tool for performing a comprehensive mileage check. Here’s how it works:
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Connect the Scanner: Plug the Carista OBD2 scanner into the vehicle’s OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard.
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Access Mileage Data: Open the Carista app and go to the Live Data section. In the Vehicle Mileage Information menu, you can see the car’s mileage data from its ECUs. This data includes readings from the engine, transmission, and instrument cluster, making it harder for fraudsters to manipulate.
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Compare Odometer Readings: Check the mileage recorded by the Carista scanner against the car’s dashboard display. Significant discrepancies may indicate odometer fraud.
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Review Mileage History: The Carista app provides insights into the vehicle’s mileage history, including previous readings and potential signs of tampering.
Carista Vehicle Mileage Information Live Data
The easiest way to detect possible odometer fraud is by using Carista's Vehicle Mileage Information Live data tool. This tool saves data from different ECU modules like the Engine, Transmission, and Instrument Cluster. It shows you the actual mileage in real time. By comparing the readings from the Carista tool with those on the dashboard, you can identify significant discrepancies.
If there are differences of thousands of kilometers, this may indicate reversed mileage. Using Carista helps you avoid purchasing a clocked vehicle and overpaying for a car that is not in optimal condition.
Carista Freeze Frame Data
Freeze Frame data provides a snapshot of important readings at the moment a warning light was triggered. Carista displays various parameters from the time the fault code was detected, including the car's mileage.
By comparing the Freeze Frame data with the current odometer reading, you can identify discrepancies. This data includes the fault priority, frequency, and mileage at the time of recording, aiding your decision-making process.
Maximize Your Savings with Carista OBD Reader & OBD2 Diagnostic App
Even after buying a good used car, you can keep saving money with Carista. The Carista OBD2 scanner and Diagnostic App offer a range of features beyond checking mileage:
- Clear Trouble Codes: Diagnose and clear both basic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes, helping you avoid unnecessary visits to the mechanic.
- Perform DIY Service Procedures: Tackle routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake pad replacements, and battery checks yourself, reducing service costs.
- Access Live Data Tools: Monitor real-time vehicle data to identify potential issues early and keep your car running smoothly.
- Customize Vehicle Settings: Adjust settings for lights, locks, and other features to tailor your car to your preferences.
Additional Tips for Detecting Clocked Vehicles
- MOT Test Records: Review MOT test certificates for recorded mileage at the time of each test. These records are difficult to alter and can provide a reliable mileage history.
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Check: Use the VIN to access the car’s full history report. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can provide detailed reports, including mileage records.
- Professional Inspection: Consider having a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle. Professionals can often spot signs of tampering or inconsistencies that might not be obvious to a layperson.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON CAR MILEAGE CHECK
What tools can I use to perform a mileage check?
Tools like the Carista OBD2 Scanner allow you to access the car’s electronic control units (ECUs) and retrieve accurate mileage data. This helps you compare the dashboard reading with the actual distance traveled.
What is considered good mileage for a used car?
→ The average is 12,000–15,000 miles per year. Anything far above this suggests heavy usage, which may lead to higher maintenance costs.
Can digital odometers be tampered with?
Yes, even digital odometers can be tampered with, although it’s more difficult than with analog ones. Fraudsters use sophisticated methods to alter mileage readings, making tools like the Carista OBD2 Scanner essential for detecting tampering.
Are there legal consequences for odometer fraud?
Yes, odometer fraud is illegal in most countries, including the US and UK. Sellers found guilty of tampering with mileage readings can face fines, legal action, and even imprisonment.
Conclusion
Detecting odometer fraud is crucial for anyone in the market for a used car.
Expert advice: By utilizing tools like the Carista OBD2 scanner, you can conduct a thorough car check, examine accurate mileage data, and identify potential mileage discrepancies. Remember to cross-reference odometer readings with service records, MOT tests, and the car’s physical condition to ensure you are making a well-informed purchase.
**Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date content regarding OBD2 tools, diagnostics, and related automotive issues, the specifics of each vehicle may vary.
*Always consult your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines and consider seeking professional assistance when dealing with complex or critical diagnostic issues.