Jan 24 2010
Prevent Odometer Fraud: 6 Tips to Do That
Generally customers need some knowledge to avoid becoming a dealer fraud victim. They need to know how to act and what to ask dealers when entering the car dealership. Here are some tips that will be rather helpful when dealing with car dealers to prevent odometer fraud.
1. Inspect the vehicle carefully to make sure that its actual condition matches the mileage that is indicated in the odometer.
2. If you think the vehicle you are going to buy has been repainted, search for the parts that have been replaced. Paint is sometimes used to cover the older parts, thus giving the vehicle a newer look.
3. Look in the left door frame, as well as inside left front window, under the hood, in the glove compartment or in the trunk for maintenance and oil change/lube stickers that might contain accurate mileage information.
4. If you consider buying a vehicle advertised or represented as part of a fleet than you should be twice careful. Be wary of these vehicles especially if the odometer shows low mileage.
5. The numbers on the odometer gauge should be aligned properly. Misaligned or crooked numbers might be a sign of odometer tampering.
6. Ask the car dealer to provide you with a written statement of the actual mileage disclosed on the odometer at the time of purchase. If they refuse to provide that document, you may already have a claim under the Truth in Mileage Act.
