The number of vehicles where the odometer reading was manipulated can only be estimated. The fact is: With every kilometer that the odometer is embellished or turned back, the selling price increases. ARAG legal expert Tobias Klingelhöfer explains what you should look out for when buying a used vehicle.
While you used to need a drill to turn back the mileage roller on the speedometer, a computer is all you need today. With special software, the mileage can be adjusted as desired on almost any type of vehicle without the need for technical knowledge.
This has been forbidden in any way since 2005; but one must first notice and prove the fraud. Prior to 2005, resetting odometer readings was only prohibited if there was fraudulent intent – which was even more difficult to prove.
First, take a good look at the car! Worn tires, worn pedals, a worn steering wheel and torn seats don’t go together with low mileage. Also check the vehicle’s service manual for plausibility.
But beware! Clever fraudsters buy a blank check book and have stamps made. As a check, you should therefore also ask the responsible workshop whether the information in the check booklet is correct. Workshops note the date of the last oil change and the mileage on the service note.
If the seller is not the previous owner but a dealer, I advise contacting the previous owner who is on the registration document. He can perhaps still remember the mileage with which he handed in the car. You will also always find the date of the inspection and the mileage in TÜV reports. If you want to be on the safe side, you should have the used car thoroughly checked by a specialist.
Our tip: For later claims, do not rely on non-binding information such as “mileage according to the speedometer” or “mileage read” in the purchase contract. Insist on the “actual mileage” being stated in the sales contract.
Most well-known manufacturers mirror all important vehicle data, including mileage, on their own servers. Since 2018 there has also been a legal requirement that every newly registered vehicle must have an automatic emergency call system, the so-called eCall. This can also be used to prove the mileage. According to the Federal Association of Independent Motor Vehicle Dealers (BVfK), this will lead to a reduction in odometer manipulation.
