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What Are Some Signs of Odometer Rollback Fraud?

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Allen Stewart
What Are Some Signs of Odometer Rollback Fraud?

Here in the United States, tampering with the odometer readings is a federal offence, and it costs clients annually around $1 billion. This federal offense is committed by some dealerships and used car selling shops.


It is estimated that around 1.6 million cars on the road likely have their odometer tampered with. The answer to how to change the mileage on a digital odometer is by installing software that resets the odometer or disconnects the odometer and sometimes alters the reading altogether.


Therefore, today we will look at some of the signs that will help you figure out if your odometer has been tampered with and explain what you should do if you are an odometer rollback victim?


1- Compare the readings of the odometer with the mileage shown


You can ask for the maintenance records and the inspection records and compare the readings with the ones of the odometer. Since the mileage is recorded in these records, it only makes sense to trust them and compare them with the readings on the odometer. If the readings don't match, it means the odometer has been tampered with.


2- Look for signs of odometer tampering near the instrument cluster


There is no need to remove or work near the instrument cluster unless it needs to be changed or repaired. If any repairs are done, they would be mentioned in the maintenance records.


If the instrument cluster is not repaired, yet you see some gaps between the number or same damages near the odometer or some number seems crooked, then there are chances of odometer tampering.


3- The car looks older than the mileage shown


This is a physical trait that you can spot with your eyes. If the car looks more worn out than the mileage indicated, it can also be considered a red flag. Bring the car to a mechanic, and they will look for signs of odometer tampering.


What should you do if you are an odometer rollback victim?


Odometer tampering is a serious issue faced by several used car buyers and dealerships in almost all the states. If you have confirmed odometer tampering, you must report it to the concerned authorities to go on the records and ensure buyers do not fall into the trap.


Once you report being the odometer rollback victim, the dealership and the person who sold you the car are also held accountable for their wrongdoings. They will have to face legal actions, and their license might also be suspended.

Every state has a different law and policy regarding dealing with an odometer rollback. Hence contact your local law enforcement agency and find out the problem to the solution.


Wrapping up


To learn more about what to do if you have been a victim of odometer rollback, contact the professionals from Allen Stewart.


Andrew Richardson is the author of this Article. To know more about Car Repair Warranty Law please visit our website: allenstewart.com


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