Inaccurate Odometer Disclosures Are A Federal Crime
Used car buyers factor in a vehicle’s mileage when they’re deciding the condition and value of the used vehicle. Odometer readings and disclosures are therefore a very important part in determining a vehicle’s condition and value.
For these two reasons, both federal and state law prohibits both odometer tampering, and also false mileage disclosures. Federal law stipulates that all vehicle sellers will include and certify an odometer disclosure statement that clearly states the following:
(a) the vehicles odometer reading reflects the actual mileage,
(b) the odometer is displaying the correct number of miles car has traveled beyond the mechanical limits of the display, or
(c) the number on the odometer is incorrect.
In the past there was a rolling back of odometer readings or other methods of modifying the display. Used vehicle dealers, unconcerned about integrity, may also ignore evidence of discrepancies in a vehicle’s history. The vehicles repaired history or its title history may show inconsistencies yet be purposely overlooked.
That is, a vehicle’s title history may show lower mileage in 2007 than in 2006. Additionally, there may be signs of possible odometer tampering that the seller should have noticed such as missing screws around the odometer casing or evidence that the casing and trim around the odometer were removed at one time.
These are signs that the seller should take seriously and check into the history of the vehicle. If he fails to do this then he’s not certifying that the odometer is showing the correct mileage.
Buyers concerned about potential odometer inaccuracy can use Carfax, Autocheck, and other such reports to see if there are odometer discrepancies in a vehicle’s history. However, these types of reports are not always complete. In addition, some repair facilities and specialty garages inspect vehicles for odometer tampering.
If it turns out that the vehicle seller does alter the odometer. Or that they do not provide accurate disclosures, they should know that they are putting their business at risk, because federal law has severe penalties for businesses that violate the odometer laws. It’s important to note though, that the laws regarding this only cover vehicles less than 11 years old.