Car fraudClocking a car's mileage
Clocking is still a big problem in the UK
Odometers still being wound back
Although the new computerised MoT system now logs car mileages at each test, this still isn’t a foolproof way of tracing every car’s true mileage – another way of verifying it’s a genuine buy – and leaves opportunities open for car fraudsters.
Alan Bishop from vehicle history checking company HPI told us: ‘Apart from number plate changes, used car buyers are most likely to encounter a car with a dubious mileage reading. Despite digital odometers being commonplace, these are no deterrent against "clocking".
'In 2008, 8% of all cars checked against the HPI National Mileage Register showed mileage discrepancies, up 1% on 2007. Clocking is still
a big issue for consumers.’
'Mileage correction' common
Peter Stratton of Essex Trading Standards says digital displays are just as easy to clock as analogue odometers: ‘It’s relatively straightforward to get the odometer reset. Numerous websites and classified ads offer “mileage correction” services for as little as £50.
'And it’s easy enough to create a false vehicle history and the impression of a car having been well looked after over its apparently short mileage, even when it may actually have done far more miles and never been serviced.’
Paying too much for your energy?
Take advantage of the recent energy price decreases by switching to a cheaper tariff today.
Which? Switch