Alright, let’s talk about something sneaky—mileage anomalies. If you’re buying a used car, the number on the dashboard isn’t just a number. It tells the story of the car’s life, and sometimes, that story has been rewritten. Some sellers—whether by mistake or on purpose—list mileage that doesn’t match up with the car’s actual history. And if you don’t catch it, you could be paying top price for a car that’s done way more miles than it claims.
Hoo-hoo! Terry Twoo here, and I’m going to help you spot those dodgy mileage numbers before they lead to trouble. Let’s break it down.
What is a Mileage Anomaly?
Simply put, it’s when the recorded mileage doesn’t match up with the car’s real journey. This can happen for a few reasons:
- Odometer tampering, where someone rolls back the mileage to make the car seem newer.
- Admin mistakes in MOT records or service history.
- A faulty or replaced dashboard that wasn’t updated correctly.
Whatever the cause, one thing’s for sure—if the numbers don’t make sense, you need to look deeper.
Why Mileage Matters
A car’s mileage isn’t just about how far it’s been driven. It affects everything from value to maintenance, and even how long the car will last.
The Car’s Value
Cars with lower mileage tend to be worth more. If someone has rolled back the odometer, you could end up paying a premium for a car that’s had a much tougher life than it seems.
Maintenance and Repairs
Timing belts, oil changes, brake replacements—these things are all scheduled based on mileage. If the reading is wrong, you might miss important maintenance, leading to expensive repairs later on.
Resale Problems
If you buy a car with dodgy mileage and later try to sell it, buyers might spot the discrepancy and walk away. Worse still, you could struggle to prove the car’s real history.
How to Spot a Mileage Anomaly
There are a few key things to check before buying a used car. Here’s how you can catch mileage issues early.
Check the MOT History
The easiest way to check a car’s past mileage is to look at its MOT records. Head over to Car Owl’s MOT check page, enter the registration number, and you’ll get a full history of previous MOTs, including recorded mileages. If the numbers don’t steadily increase—or worse, if they drop—it’s a sign something’s off.
Look for Wear and Tear
A car with low mileage should look like it. If the pedals, seats, and steering wheel are worn out but the odometer is claiming a low number, that’s a big red flag.
Check the Service Records
A well-maintained car should have service records that list its mileage at each visit. If there are gaps in the history or inconsistencies in the numbers, ask why.
Run a Vehicle History Check
If you want to be absolutely sure, a Car Owl history check will compare mileage records from different sources, helping you spot anything suspicious.
What to Do if You Find a Mileage Issue
So, you’ve spotted something that doesn’t add up—now what?
Ask the Seller for an Explanation
Not every mileage issue is a scam. Sometimes, mistakes happen in paperwork. A genuine seller should be happy to explain and provide extra records.
Get a Mechanic to Inspect the Car
A good mechanic can often tell if a car’s condition matches its claimed mileage. If the engine, suspension, or brakes show high-mileage wear but the dashboard says otherwise, you’ll know something’s up.
Walk Away if It Doesn’t Add Up
If the seller can’t explain the issue or avoids your questions, it’s best to look elsewhere. There are plenty of other used cars out there—no need to take a risk on one with a dodgy history.
Why Use Car Owl for Mileage Checks?
The best way to avoid mileage fraud is to check the car’s history before you buy. A Car Owl full history check gives you everything you need to make an informed decision.
- See past MOT mileage records instantly.
- Get an instant history report by entering the registration number.
- Access data from trusted sources like the DVLA and insurance companies.
Final Thoughts from Terry Twoo
Buying a used car doesn’t have to be a gamble. If the mileage doesn’t look right, don’t ignore it. A quick check on Car Owl’s MOT history tool will give you the facts, so you can buy with confidence.
Stay wise, check before you buy, and drive away knowing you’ve made a smart choice.
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