What does inconsistent mileage mean?
Inconsistent mileage means a car's recorded mileage doesn't follow a logical progression when compared across different records, such as MOT tests, service records, or previous sales. This can indicate odometer tampering, recording errors, or other issues that affect the vehicle's true mileage and value.
Why inconsistent mileage matters to buyers
Value misrepresentation
Mileage is a key factor in determining a vehicle's value. If the mileage is inconsistent or incorrect, you may pay more than the vehicle is worth based on its true mileage.
Wear and tear
A vehicle with higher true mileage than displayed will have more wear and tear than expected. This can affect reliability, maintenance costs, and the need for repairs sooner than anticipated.
Potential tampering
Inconsistent mileage may indicate odometer tampering, which is illegal in the UK. If you purchase a vehicle with tampered mileage, you may have legal recourse against the seller, but proving tampering can be difficult.
Resale value
If you later discover inconsistent mileage when selling the vehicle, it will affect the resale value and may deter potential buyers. The inconsistency remains on the vehicle's history permanently.
What inconsistent mileage indicates
Inconsistent mileage occurs when the vehicle's recorded mileage at different points in time doesn't follow a logical progression. For example, if a vehicle shows 50,000 miles at one MOT test but 40,000 miles at a later test, this indicates inconsistency that requires investigation.
Inconsistencies can result from odometer tampering, where the mileage is deliberately reduced to increase the vehicle's value. They can also result from recording errors, instrument failures, or legitimate circumstances such as instrument replacement with incorrect mileage recording.
Inconsistent mileage is identified by comparing mileage records across MOT tests, service records, and vehicle history checks. Official MOT records provide a reliable timeline of recorded mileage that can reveal inconsistencies when analysed over time.
What to check before buying a car with inconsistent mileage
- Run a vehicle history check to review the complete mileage history
- Compare the current odometer reading with MOT test records
- Request service records to verify mileage progression
- Check for signs of odometer tampering, such as loose instrument clusters or mismatched screws
- Verify the seller's explanation for any inconsistencies
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle for wear consistent with the displayed mileage
- Consider walking away if inconsistencies cannot be explained or verified
- Be cautious of vehicles with unusually low mileage for their age
How a vehicle history check helps
A vehicle history check provides official records from UK databases, including MOT test history with recorded mileage at each test. This helps buyers identify inconsistent mileage by comparing mileage across different test dates and identifying any reductions or inconsistencies.
Sellers may not disclose mileage inconsistencies, or may be unaware of them. A vehicle history check provides independent verification from official sources, automatically flagging potential inconsistencies and helping buyers make informed decisions about vehicles with mileage issues.
What a Carpeep vehicle history check can show
- Mileage inconsistencies and potential odometer rollbacks, automatically flagged
- MOT history timeline, including all test dates, pass/fail results, advisories, and recorded mileage at each test
- Write-off category (Cat S, Cat N, Cat A, Cat B, Cat C, Cat D) and date of write-off
- Theft and recovery status, including whether the vehicle has been reported stolen
- Outstanding finance agreements, including provider name, agreement type, and start date
- Keeper changes and number of previous owners
- Registration plate changes and vehicle identity verification
Frequently asked questions
Is inconsistent mileage the same as clocked mileage?
Inconsistent mileage is a broader term that includes any irregularity in recorded mileage. Clocked mileage specifically refers to deliberate odometer rollback to reduce displayed mileage. All clocked mileage creates inconsistencies and mileage discrepancies, but not all inconsistencies indicate deliberate tampering.
Can inconsistent mileage be legitimate?
Some inconsistent mileage can be legitimate, such as instrument replacement with incorrect mileage recording, or recording errors. However, any inconsistency should be investigated and explained by the seller. Deliberate odometer tampering is illegal.
How can I check for inconsistent mileage?
You can check for inconsistent mileage by running a vehicle history check that includes MOT history. Compare the recorded mileage at each MOT test to identify any reductions or inconsistencies. A vehicle history check automatically flags potential inconsistencies for easy identification.
Does inconsistent mileage affect value?
Yes. Mileage is a key factor in vehicle value. If the true mileage is higher than displayed, the vehicle is worth less than its asking price. Inconsistent mileage can significantly affect both purchase price and future resale value.
What should I do if I find inconsistent mileage?
If you find inconsistent mileage, request an explanation from the seller and verify it with documentation. If the inconsistency cannot be explained or indicates tampering, consider walking away from the purchase. You may also report suspected tampering to trading standards.
Can inconsistent mileage be corrected?
The displayed mileage can potentially be corrected, but the inconsistency record remains in the vehicle's history permanently. Official MOT records show the true mileage progression, and any inconsistency will always be visible in vehicle history checks.