What does mileage discrepancy mean?
Mileage discrepancy means a car's recorded mileage doesn't match expected values 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 mileage discrepancy matters to buyers
Value misrepresentation
Mileage is a key factor in determining a vehicle's value. If the mileage has been tampered with or is 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.
Legal implications
Odometer tampering 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 without proper documentation.
Resale value
If you later discover mileage discrepancy when selling the vehicle, it will affect the resale value and may deter potential buyers. The discrepancy remains on the vehicle's history permanently.
What mileage discrepancy indicates
Mileage discrepancy 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 a discrepancy that requires investigation.
Discrepancies 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.
Mileage discrepancies are 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 discrepancies when analysed over time.
What to check before buying a car with mileage discrepancy
- 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 discrepancies
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle for wear consistent with the displayed mileage
- Consider walking away if discrepancies 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 mileage discrepancies by comparing mileage across different test dates and identifying any reductions or inconsistencies.
Sellers may not disclose mileage discrepancies, or may be unaware of them. A vehicle history check provides independent verification from official sources, automatically flagging potential discrepancies 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 mileage discrepancy the same as clocked mileage?
Mileage discrepancy is a broader term that includes any inconsistency in recorded mileage. Clocked mileage specifically refers to deliberate odometer rollback to reduce displayed mileage. All clocked mileage creates discrepancies, but not all discrepancies indicate deliberate tampering. Mileage discrepancies can also result in inconsistent mileage records.
Can mileage discrepancy be legitimate?
Some mileage discrepancies can be legitimate, such as instrument replacement with incorrect mileage recording, or recording errors. However, any discrepancy should be investigated and explained by the seller. Deliberate odometer tampering is illegal.
How can I check for mileage discrepancy?
You can check for mileage discrepancy 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 discrepancies for easy identification.
Does mileage discrepancy 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. Mileage discrepancies can significantly affect both purchase price and future resale value.
Is odometer tampering illegal?
Yes. Odometer tampering is illegal in the UK. Deliberately reducing or altering a vehicle's displayed mileage to misrepresent its condition or value is a criminal offence. If you discover tampering, you may have legal recourse against the seller.
What should I do if I find mileage discrepancy?
If you find mileage discrepancy, request an explanation from the seller and verify it with documentation. If the discrepancy cannot be explained or indicates tampering, consider walking away from the purchase. You may also report suspected tampering to trading standards.