Are you looking to buy a used car and have questions about the mileage displayed on the odometer? Rest assured, you are in the right place! In this article, we will provide essential tips for checking the actual mileage of a used vehicle to avoid unpleasant surprises.
By consulting the vehicle's history, referring to the maintenance book, and utilizing various techniques, you can make an informed purchase.
The Importance of Mileage for a Used Car
Mileage is a critical factor when purchasing a used car, as it directly affects the vehicle's value. In South Africa, as elsewhere, lower mileage often translates to higher trade-in values. However, odometer fraud is a significant concern. Knowing how to verify mileage is essential to ensure you're getting what you pay for.
View Vehicle History
When considering a used car, request a comprehensive vehicle history report. In South Africa, you can obtain this from various reliable sources. This report provides unbiased information about the car's history, including mileage records. It helps verify whether the mileage indicated by the seller is accurate and uncovers any potential odometer tampering.
To get this report, use reputable services that require the vehicle registration number. This will give you access to detailed history, ensuring that the mileage displayed on the odometer matches the recorded history. If discrepancies are found, it could indicate fraud.
Rely on the Maintenance Book
The service book is another valuable tool for verifying the mileage of a used car. It logs all maintenance performed on the vehicle, with dates and mileage at each service. Reviewing this book allows you to track the mileage progression over time. Inconsistencies between the service book and the odometer can signal potential fraud.
Check Technical Controls
For vehicles over four years old, technical inspections are mandatory and must be performed every two years. These inspections record the vehicle's mileage. Request previous inspection reports when buying a used car. If the seller cannot provide them or if the mileage is lower than what was recorded during the last inspection, it could indicate tampering.
Call a Professional
If you still have doubts after these checks, consult a professional. Mechanics or automobile experts can provide a thorough inspection. They use various methods to verify mileage:
- Visual Inspection: Examining wear indicators like pedals, steering wheel, and gear lever.
- Document Analysis: Reviewing vehicle documents for consistency.
- OBD Scanner: Reading electronic data from the vehicle’s ECU.
- Vehicle History Analysis: Using professional databases to check for inconsistencies.
Professional assessments provide in-depth, impartial verification, giving you confidence in your purchase decision.
Conclusion
Verifying the mileage of a used car is crucial before making a purchase. By checking the vehicle’s history, maintenance book, and technical inspections, you can accurately gauge the car’s mileage. If in doubt, consult a professional. Remember, mileage is just one factor—consider the overall condition, price, insurance, and potential repairs. Legal recourse is available if you discover post-purchase that the mileage was misrepresented.
Looking for a used vehicle? Whether petrol, diesel, or hybrid, our site offers a wide selection of pre-owned cars. Our sales team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect vehicle.
