Four ways to determine if your mileage is genuine.

Four ways to determine if your mileage is genuine.

This blog describes four proven methods for determining the true mileage of a car. Although there are other approaches, these four methods are considered the most effective and help to avoid possible errors.

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In the past, when cars were equipped with analog odometers, detecting fake mileage was pretty easy. The odometers looked authentic, and even an inexperienced person could notice obvious inconsistencies. To fake the mileage, the scammer had to physically twist the odometer with a screwdriver, which left obvious marks.

However, ironically, with the advent of digital odometers, mileage manipulation has become even more difficult to detect. Modern odometers are much easier to fake, and most importantly, they do not leave obvious traces of manipulation. This creates some difficulties in determining the authenticity of the run. So, how can you tell when something goes wrong and the car's mileage is suspicious?

Modern digital on-board computers have a complex structure that allows each component to function independently, but interact closely with the central processing unit. This technical solution ensures the exchange of information between components and the transfer of important data back to the central system for analysis.

Data about mileage, engine condition, fuel consumption and other aspects of the car are collected and stored in a central processing unit. This allows you to create a timeline of changes and modifications made by various vehicle modules.

Such a system is also able to detect suspicious events, such as a significant increase in mileage. In the event of discrepancies, some brands display special labels, such as an asterisk next to the miles, to indicate possible violations. But it is worth noting that the presence of such a label does not always indicate mileage manipulation, but requires special attention and caution on the part of the owner.

Thus, digital on-board computers become reliable assistants in determining the real mileage and detecting any suspicious changes, which makes them an important source of information for used car buyers.

Exploring data online

Mileage data is stored elsewhere than on your trip computer.

Records are also kept during the annual technical inspection. The mechanic regularly records the exact mileage of the car during inspection, and this data is an important part of the process of checking the technical health of the car.

It is especially important to check whether the current odometer reading matches the data from the inspection. If inconsistencies are found in the inspection data, this may indicate possible mileage manipulation.

In addition, there are now online services that provide access to databases containing information about the car's mileage. These databases are based on records from official service centers and insurance companies. Such services allow you to check the history of the car's mileage and identify possible inconsistencies or dishonest data manipulation. Review the service book or vehicle service history. There may be records of past maintenance, replacement parts, and mileage at the time of each service.

Therefore, checking inspection data and using online services help to ensure greater reliability and accuracy in determining the actual mileage when buying a used car.

Documentation

Nowadays, when we think about documentation, we often think digitally. However, most of the documentation must also be in paper format. So take the opportunity to ask for paper forms when you look at the car.

Oil changes and inspections are still often written down on paper with a pen and stamp. They provide useful information about the vehicle's service history as well as its mileage. Paper records have the same advantages as an analog odometer: it takes a lot of manipulation to leave no obvious traces.

Operating wear

The appearance and condition of a car can give some information about its mileage. Severe wear marks on the steering wheel, pedals, seats, and other components may indicate high mileage.

One of the reliable signs that can be used to determine the mileage of a car is the condition of the brake pads. Check them for wear in the cabin. If they appear to be heavily worn in a vehicle that is expected to have driven fewer miles than comparable vehicles, this can be a concern and suggest possible mileage manipulation.

However, keep in mind that scammers can also replace the brake pads in their ploy to disguise the real mileage. It is important to note that in most cases brake pads are changed only when necessary, and their condition can be quite stable for a long time.