Essential Guide for Sydney Residents: How to Spot Odometer Fraud When Buying a Used Car

If you’re living in Sydney and looking to purchase a high-quality used car from Japan, one of the most critical factors to consider is the vehicle’s mileage. Unfortunately, some used cars in the market may have their odometers tampered with to show lower mileage than the car has actually been driven. While a lower mileage might seem like a bargain, it can significantly affect the car’s true value and future maintenance costs.

In this article, we’ll explore the risks of odometer tampering, how to detect it, and tips for safely purchasing a reliable used car in Sydney. By the end, you’ll know how to make an informed choice and avoid being scammed.

Odometer tampering refers to the illegal practice of altering a car’s odometer to display a lower mileage than the vehicle has actually traveled. The aim of this practice to inflate the car’s value and sell it at a higher price. While it may seem like you’re getting a good deal with lower mileage, there are significant risks involved, such as:

Increased maintenance costs: A tampered odometer hides the car’s actual wear and tear, leading to unexpected repair bills.

Compromised safety: The vehicle may be more worn out than expected, which could pose a safety risk due to deteriorating parts.

Resale issues: If odometer fraud is discovered later, the vehicle’s resale value could plummet, and you may have trouble selling it.

Odometer fraud occurs primarily to increase the selling price of used cars. Cars with lower mileage generally fetch higher prices, which motivates dishonest sellers to tamper with the odometer. Unfortunately, this fraud not only impacts individual buyers but also tarnishes the reputation of the entire used car market. As a result, several issues arise, such as:

Loss of consumer trust: The more odometer fraud spreads, the more difficult it becomes for honest dealers to maintain trust with their customers.

Legal troubles: Discovering that you’ve purchased a car with tampered mileage can lead to costly legal battles, and proving fraud is often challenging.

Fortunately, there are several ways you can protect yourself from buying a car with a tampered odometer. Here are some essential tips:

The best way to verify the accuracy of a vehicle’s mileage is through its service records. Each time a car undergoes maintenance, its mileage is typically recorded. Comparing these records with the current odometer reading can reveal inconsistencies. When buying imported cars from Japan, look for vehicles inspected by the Japan Export Vehicle Inspection Center (JEVIC), which provides odometer verification certificates.

Even if a car shows low mileage, the condition of its interior and tires can tell a different story. Excessive wear on the steering wheel, seats, and pedals may indicate that the car has been driven much more than the odometer suggests. Tyre wear is another clear indicator of high mileage, so be sure to check the tires for any signs of overuse.

One of the most effective ways to avoid odometer fraud is buying from trusted dealers known for their transparency. At Roundabout Australia, we specialize in high-quality used cars imported from Japan with verified service histories and genuine odometer readings. When you choose to purchase from us, you can rest assured that the vehicle has not been tampered with, providing peace of mind.

In Australia, odometer tampering is strictly illegal, and severe penalties are imposed on those found guilty of the practice. To further protect yourself, it’s recommended to use services like PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) and CarHistory, which allow you to check a vehicle’s history for any discrepancies, including odometer irregularities, accidents, and outstanding debts.

In Japan, similar strict regulations are enforced to prevent odometer fraud in vehicles being exported, with inspections carried out by JEVIC.

Here are a few essential tips for buying a used car in Sydney without falling victim to odometer fraud:

Choose a reputable dealer: Look for dealers with positive customer reviews and a history of transparency. Roundabout Australia is a great example of a dealer that provides vehicles with accurate mileage information and verified service records.

Verify the vehicle’s history: Always use services like PPSR or CarHistory to ensure there are no hidden issues with the car’s mileage, accident history, or financial obligations.

Request a third-party inspection: Before finalizing your purchase, consider hiring a professional inspection service like Inspect My Ride to verify the car’s condition and mileage independently.

Odometer fraud is a serious risk when purchasing a used car. However, by following the steps in this guide, you can significantly reduce that risk. Start by checking service records and inspect the vehicle’s condition. Always buy from trusted dealers like Roundabout Australia to ensure you’re making a safe and informed purchase. Additionally, services like JEVIC, PPSR, and CarHistory provide valuable insights into a car’s history, giving you a confidence to buy with peace of mind.

For high-quality, Japanese-imported used cars with verified mileage, visit Roundabout Australia and explore their wide selection of reliable vehicles.