Tarotizing a car’s odometer is an illegal and widespread practice all over the world, the purpose of which is to alter the mileage of a car to make it appear that it has traveled less road than it actually did. This behavior is called fraud and can have serious consequences for both the seller and the buyer.
It is usually implemented by dishonest sellers looking to increase the value of the car, making it appear as if it is less used than it actually is. Sellers and private individuals work on used cars, where the mileage is a determining factor for the sale price.
Changing the odometer is mainly done for benefit economically. When selling a used car, mileage is an important indicator of its condition and market value. A car with lower mileage may sell for a higher price than a car with higher mileage. However, there are also cases where the tagging is done to hide problems with the car, such as wear and tear on components.
The techniques for modifying the value presented to the user who wants to buy a car are of various types. Generally for older models, those analogsimply use a drill to make the digit drum go back. For the more recent digital models, however, it is necessary to have one software instrumentation readily available on the market e connect your PC to the car control unit. Obviously, basic computer and electronic knowledge must still be possessed.
But how to avoid these manipulations and real scams when buying a used car?
There are several measures you can take to protect yourself from tagging the odometer. First, it is important to check the mileage of the car checking the date of recording of roadworthiness tests and service logs. In addition, attention should be paid to any signs of wear and tear on the car that may be inconsistent with the indicated mileage.
So it is advisable to spend a few euros to make one historical overview of the car at the ACI or a car practice agency. Even the Driver’s portal is trying to help motorists who are preparing to buy a car on the used market: in fact, the most up-to-date and modern inspection centers automatically enter the actual data of the car’s mileage in such a way that, in total autonomy anyone can verify the reliability of the data that is proposed to him.
An excellent idea, however, is to consult an automotive expert or a trusted mechanic for a complete check of the car before making the purchase to avoid unpleasant surprises!
It is important to remember that whoever sets up these practices is criminally prosecutable and risks very heavy penalties, even of hundreds of thousands of euros. In the event that you are the victim of such behavior, you can assert your rights within the expiry date of the guarantee. If indeed intent is established for one mileage more than 50,000 kilometres, you can ask the termination of the contract as established by article 130 of the highway code. It’s yours threshold is not exceeded you are entitled to one discount on the sale price. But be careful: as soon as you discover the mystery, both have 60 days to report toAGCM, the Competition and Market Guarantor Agency. In the event that an agreement is not reached with the seller, it is possible to file a complaint and initiate legal action.
