5 Telltale Signs of Odometer Tampering: How to Avoid Buying a Used Car with Altered Mileage

Buying a used car can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to make sure you’re getting a fair deal. Unfortunately, some sellers try to deceive buyers by tampering with the odometer, making it look like the car has fewer miles than it actually does. In this article, we’ll explore five telltale signs of odometer tampering and how you can avoid buying a used car with altered mileage.

• Inconsistent Mileage

One of the most obvious signs of odometer tampering is inconsistent mileage. If the car’s mileage seems to jump around or doesn’t match up with the age and wear of the vehicle, it’s a red flag. A car that is only a few years old but has unusually low mileage could be a sign of tampering.

• Worn Pedals and Seats

Another sign of odometer tampering is worn pedals and seats. If the car’s odometer shows low mileage but the pedals and seats look excessively worn or used, it could be an indication that the car has been driven more than what is reflected on the odometer.

• Dashboard Lights

Dashboard lights can also be a sign of odometer tampering. If the car’s dashboard lights are dim or not working properly, it could be a sign that the odometer has been tampered with. In addition, some cars have warning lights that come on at certain mileage intervals, such as for routine maintenance. If these lights don’t come on when they should, it could be a sign of odometer tampering.