Ever looked at a car’s mileage and thought, "That seems too good to be true?" Well, sometimes, it is. Checking a vehicle’s mileage history isn’t just about numbers—it’s about making sure the car’s past adds up and that you’re not about to buy a problem on wheels.
Whether you’re after a daily commuter or a weekend cruiser, understanding the car’s mileage tells you how much wear and tear it’s been through. But how can you tell if the odometer reading is legit? Let’s break it down.
Why Mileage History Is Important
A car’s mileage isn’t just a number—it’s a story of its past. Here’s why it matters:
Spotting Excessive Wear
The more miles a car has done, the more strain its engine, brakes, and suspension have been through. High mileage isn’t always a bad thing, but it should match the car’s condition.
Avoiding Mileage Fraud
Clocking—where a car’s mileage is rolled back to appear lower—is sadly common. The best way to catch this? A car history check that reveals previous mileage records.
Planning for Maintenance Costs
Timing belts, brake pads, and tyres all have expected lifespans based on mileage. A car approaching major service milestones might mean big repair bills ahead.
Impact on Resale Value
If you plan to sell the car later, mileage matters. Buyers tend to prefer lower mileage cars, but more importantly, they look for genuine mileage records.
How to Check Mileage History
Checking a car’s mileage properly means gathering information from multiple sources. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a vehicle history check: Run a car history check to uncover past mileage records and flag any inconsistencies.
- Review mot history: Every MOT test records the car’s mileage. A mot check can help you track how the numbers have changed over time.
- Compare service records: Each time a car is serviced, mileage should be recorded. Make sure these records align with the MOT and history check.
- Look for physical signs: If a car claims low mileage but the seats, steering wheel, and pedals look worn down, something’s off.
What to Look for in a Mileage Report
Once you’ve got your mileage report, here’s what to focus on:
Steady Mileage Increases
A car’s mileage should gradually increase over time. If there’s a sudden drop between records, the odometer may have been tampered with.
Matching mot and Service Records
Check that mileage recorded in MOT tests, service history, and the logbook all match up. Gaps or inconsistencies can be a big red flag.
Mileage That Fits the Car’s Age
If a 10-year-old car has suspiciously low mileage, question it. Either it’s been sitting in a garage for years (which isn’t always a good thing), or the numbers might have been altered.
What to Do If the Mileage Doesn’t Add Up
If something seems off, don’t ignore it. Here’s what to do:
Ask the Seller for Proof
Legit sellers should have service records and MOT certificates to back up the mileage.
Get a Professional Inspection
If you’re still unsure, have a mechanic inspect the car. They can check for excessive wear that doesn’t match the claimed mileage.
Run a Full Vehicle History Report
If you have doubts, run a car history check to compare past records and spot any issues.
Walk Away If Necessary
If the seller can’t explain inconsistencies, it’s best to find another car. There are plenty of genuine options out there!
Final Mileage Check Tips
Before making a decision, tick these off your list:
- Run a car history check for previous mileage records.
- Check the mot history to verify recorded mileage.
- Compare service records—do they match up?
- Inspect the car’s interior wear and tear—does it fit the mileage?
Want to Learn More?
For a full breakdown on checking a used car’s history, read our car history check guide. A few simple checks now can save you a huge headache later.
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