When buying a car, you really need to make sure that you’re getting exactly what you pay for – and nothing more

(e.g. unexpected nasty surprises) or less (a car actually worth far less in real terms due to being clocked for example).

Clocked cars, also known as odometer tampering, are vehicles that have had their mileage altered to deceive potential buyers. Spotting a clocked car is essential to avoid purchasing a vehicle with a false mileage reading, which can lead to unexpected mechanical issues and a loss of value.

Following HPI’s recent announcement that one in 17 cars have been clocked in the UK, here are motorists’ tips and advice on how to avoid being scammed.

This high figure is a warning sign to customers buying second hand cars. Illegal clocking is a quick and easy way for unscrupulous car sellers to make money and those buying second hand cars need to be very wary. Not only is buying a tampered car a waste of money, a clocked vehicle is dangerous to the driver and other road users, as cars with incorrect mileages have often missed important services and part replacement dates, making them unreliable and potentially un-roadworthy. If motorists are in any doubt as to whether or not a vehicle may have been clocked, they should always seek expert advice before making a purchase.

A recent investigation by the BBC put the spotlight back on car clocking, revealing that winding back the odometer on a high mileage car, is one of today’s most common car crimes.

When purchasing a second hand car, drivers should look out for the following warning signs and plan ahead by doing some basic maintenance checks on the vehicle in question, to avoid being cheated by rogue traders:

Common sense should be exercised at all times – worn pedal rubbers, lots of chips on the bonnet, a shiny steering wheel and excessive wear and tear in the car’s interior, all indicate a well-travelled vehicle.

Original copies of the logbook, the car’s service history, MOT details, registration number, vehicle identification number and a valid tax disc, should all completely up to date and accounted for upon inspection of the vehicle. If any of these documents are missing or invalid, walk away from the deal.

Motorists should input the car’s registration number into official mileage-check websites such as the HPI or AutoCheck from Experian. For a small cost, drivers can be safe in the knowledge that they are buying a vehicle that hasn’t been tampered with.

In this section, we'll discuss key indicators to help you identify a clocked car and protect yourself from potential fraud.

1. Inconsistent Mileage Records Review the vehicle's service history, maintenance records, and previous MOT certificates to check for any inconsistencies in the mileage readings. Look for sudden drops or suspicious increases in mileage between service intervals. Any irregularities should raise concerns about the accuracy of the displayed mileage.

2. Wear and Tear Discrepancies Inspect the car's overall condition, particularly the wear and tear on the interior components, pedals, and driver's seat. Excessive wear in relation to the claimed mileage could indicate that the car has been driven significantly more than what is indicated on the odometer.

3. Dashboard and Control Panel Examination Check the dashboard and control panel for signs of tampering or manipulation. Look for loose or misaligned panels, scratches around the mileage display, or evidence of forced entry. In some cases, clocked cars may have stickers or decals on the dashboard to conceal signs of tampering.

4. Vehicle History Check Perform a vehicle history check using reputable online services to access comprehensive data about the vehicle's past. This can include mileage records, MOT history, and any recorded instances of odometer discrepancies or clocking. A thorough history check can reveal red flags and provide valuable insights into the car's true mileage.

Conclusion Spotting a clocked car requires careful inspection, attention to detail, and verifying information through reliable sources. By checking for inconsistencies in mileage records, examining wear and tear, inspecting the dashboard, and conducting a comprehensive vehicle history check, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to odometer tampering. Stay vigilant and trust your instincts when evaluating a vehicle's mileage to make an informed and confident purchase decision.

Always remember, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Check out our full buyers guides to avoiding a clocked car

FAQ: Spotting a Clocked Car

1. What is a clocked car?

A clocked car is a vehicle that has had its mileage manipulated or tampered with to display a lower mileage than the actual distance traveled. This fraudulent practice is done to deceive potential buyers and increase the vehicle's resale value.

2. Why is it important to spot a clocked car?

Spotting a clocked car is important because buying a car with incorrect mileage can lead to various issues. It affects the vehicle's value, maintenance schedule, warranty, and overall reliability. Identifying a clocked car helps protect you from potential fraud and ensures you make an informed buying decision.

3. What are some signs that a car may be clocked?

Signs that a car may be clocked include:

• Inconsistent wear and tear compared to the displayed mileage.
• Mismatched or altered service records.
• Unusual or excessive wear on the pedals, steering wheel, and seats.
• An odometer that shows signs of tampering, such as misaligned numbers or scratches around the mileage display.
• Incomplete or missing maintenance or repair records.
• A discrepancy between the mileage displayed and the overall condition of the car.

4. Can I check a car's mileage history?

Yes, you can check a car's mileage history by obtaining a vehicle history report. These reports often include mileage information gathered from various sources, including service records, inspections, and emissions testing. Some reports may also include data from previous owners and accidents.

5. How can I verify a car's mileage?

To verify a car's mileage, you can take the following steps:

• Check the car's service and maintenance records for consistency with the displayed mileage.
• Inspect the condition of the car, including wear and tear, to assess if it aligns with the displayed mileage.
• Consider getting an independent inspection from a trusted mechanic who can assess the overall condition and potentially identify any discrepancies.
• Obtain a vehicle history report to review the recorded mileage and look for any inconsistencies or potential signs of clocking.

6. Can I contact previous owners to verify the mileage?

It may be difficult to contact previous owners directly to verify the mileage of a car. However, you can try to gather information from available service records or vehicle history reports, which may include details about past ownership and recorded mileage.

7. Should I be wary of imported cars when checking for clocking?

When checking for clocking, it's important to exercise caution with imported cars. Some imported vehicles may have had their mileage converted from kilometers to miles or vice versa, which can sometimes create confusion or discrepancies. It's advisable to carefully review the vehicle's documentation, service records, and consult with experts if needed.

8. Can I report a suspected clocked car?

Yes, if you suspect a car has been clocked, you can report it to the appropriate authorities or consumer protection agencies in your region. Providing details and evidence of your suspicion can help authorities investigate the matter and take appropriate action against fraudulent practices.

9. Can a professional help me spot a clocked car?

Yes, consulting a professional can be helpful in spotting a clocked car. Automotive experts, such as mechanics or vehicle inspectors, have experience and knowledge to identify signs of tampering, inconsistencies, or other indications of clocking. Their expertise can provide you with valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

10. Should I avoid buying a car if I suspect it has been clocked?

If you suspect a car has been clocked, it's generally advisable to proceed with caution. Consider the potential risks, uncertainties, and potential legal implications involved. It's often safer to look for another vehicle with a reliable and verifiable mileage history to avoid potential problems associated with clocked cars.