8 signs of a stranded car mileage
Statistically, about 50 per cent of used cars have a mileage that is significantly different from the real one. And all because the data on the kilometres travelled are decisively twisted, without thinking that tampering with modern odometers can harm all the electronics of the car.
Let's take a look at the main signs that you may be aware of mileage fraud.
How to spot attempts to fudge a car's mileage
- The electronic odometer data differs from the mileage data in other electronic devices: ignition key, ABS unit or automatic transmission.
There may also be errors in the system, if there «s a legacy» amateurs, trying to rewind the kilometres.
- The dashboard has been subject to unauthorised removal.
This sign of stranded mileage applies to mechanical odometers, where the kilometre figures are changed manually.
- Driver's seat, seat belts are worn out.
If there are tears or holes on the back of the seat in the «native» upholstery, the car has travelled at least 200,000 km. If the seats are reupholstered in new leather and have extra seat covers, this can also indicate heavy wear and tear due to prolonged use of the car.
Pay attention to greasy or torn seat belts. They won't show up after 10-20,000 kilometres either.
See the following.
- Brake discs are badly worn.
If the seller is offering to buy a sedan rather than a race car, worn brake discs with low mileage – a reason to suspect a trick. Don't be lazy to compare the wear of the front discs with the rear discs, as an enterprising seller may have changed them for new ones. Take into account that the average service life of a brake disc is 50-80 thousand km and compare their condition with the odometer readings.
- Uneven wear on the pedal pads.
The driver's foot is almost always on the accelerator pedal, and if its lining is highly polished and you are assured of minimal use of the car, don't believe it. Another sign – a frayed mat under the accelerator pedal.
- The condition of the timing belt does not match the stated mileage.
The timing belt should be replaced every 60-100,000 kilometres. Look under the bonnet of the car and compare the integrity of the part with the kilometres travelled on the odometer.
If the belt looks too new, it may have been changed before, so check the service history of the car.
- Wear and tear on car components hidden under the bonnet.
If the car has not been used practically, the condition of drive belts, wiring, dust covers, oil seals should be almost perfect. Otherwise, the odometer has been twisted.
- Improper condition of tyre treads.
The tread pattern wears out in about 50,000 kilometres. Ask the seller of the car if the tyres have been replaced before. If the owner of the car will assure that the rubber on the wheels «native», measure the height of the tread. For example, with a mileage of 30,000 kilometres, the tread height should not be lower than 1.59 mm.
The above-mentioned signs of the twisted mileage separately can not be a hundred per cent proof of a scam with concealment of the real mileage. To be more confident in your rightness, it is better to check the car you are buying at an independent car service, where they will conduct a comprehensive diagnosis on high-quality equipment for service stations and give an accurate assessment of the condition of the vehicle.
