Detect Odometer Rollback and Mileage Fraud in Used Cars

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Compare odometer reading with service and maintenance records for consistency.
• Inspect wear on pedals, steering wheel, and seats for signs exceeding displayed mileage.
• Request a vehicle history report for mileage jumps or inconsistent mileage entries.
• Check tire date codes and tread wear for consistency with claimed mileage.
• Examine instrument cluster for tool marks or evidence of tampering.
• Use OBD-II scanner to compare stored data mileage with dashboard reading.
• Contact prior owners or service shops to verify mileage at each transfer.
• Review emissions and inspection certificates for recorded mileages.
• Check for missing or altered screws near the dashboard for evidence of removal.
• Look for mismatched or unusually new instrument clusters in a worn interior.
• Ask for original sale documents to compare purchase and current mileage.
• Research common rollback methods for this vehicle model to spot known tricks.