How do you know the real kilometres of a car?

Why is it important to know the actual kilometres?

Wear indicator

Kilometrage is one of the most important indicators of wear and tear on a car. A vehicle with many kilometres on it is likely to have suffered more wear and tear on its mechanical and electronic components. Knowing the actual kilometres will allow you to better assess the car’s condition and anticipate possible future repairs and maintenance.

Resale value

Kilometrage also affects the resale value of a car. Cars with fewer kilometres tend to have a higher market value, as they are perceived as less used and more reliable. Checking the actual mileage will help you determine if the price you are paying is fair.

Safety and reliability

A car with a manipulated mileage may have hidden problems that could affect its safety and performance. Knowing your actual kilometres will allow you to make more informed decisions and choose a car that is safe and reliable to drive.

Methods to verify actual kilometres

Visual inspection

A detailed visual inspection can provide clues as to the true mileage of the car. Some aspects to review include:

• Steering wheel and pedal wear: A car with many kilometres on it will often show significant wear on the steering wheel and pedals.
• Condition of seats and upholstery: Worn seats and upholstery in poor condition may indicate high mileage.
• Tyre condition: Very worn tyres can be a sign that the car has travelled many kilometres. Also check the date of manufacture of the tyres.

Mechanical inspection

Taking the car to a reputable mechanic for a full inspection is highly recommended. The mechanic can check key components such as the engine, transmission and brakes, and compare their condition with the reported mileage. Significant wear and tear and mechanical problems may indicate that the car has more kilometres on it than the odometer shows.

Review the maintenance book

The car’s maintenance book should contain detailed records of all services and maintenance carried out, including odometer readings at each visit. Check that mileage readings are consistent and chronologically correct. If there are discrepancies or missing records, this could be a sign of manipulated mileage.

Using digital tools

There are digital tools and devices that can be connected to the car to read data from the on-board computer. These tools can provide information on mileage and other important vehicle data. However, it is important to use reliable tools and preferably to carry out this verification with the help of a professional.

Mileage tamper warning signs

Inconsistent readings

If you find inconsistent mileage readings in the vehicle history or maintenance book, it is a warning sign. Readings should follow a logical and consistent progression over time.

Excessive wear and tear

A car that shows excessive wear on components such as the steering wheel, pedals, seats and upholstery, but has low mileage on the odometer, could have been tampered with. Wear should be proportional to the reported mileage.

Lack of maintenance records

The lack of a maintenance book or service records may be a sign that the seller is trying to hide information about the actual mileage of the car. Always ask to see maintenance records before making a decision.

What to do if you suspect mileage manipulation?

Ask for a second opinion

If you suspect that the mileage has been manipulated, it is advisable to seek a second opinion from a trusted mechanic or vehicle inspection professional. They can provide a more detailed and accurate assessment of the car’s condition.

Consider other options

If you are unsure about the authenticity of the mileage, it may be best to consider other options. At Linkcee, we offer a wide range of used cars with clear and verifiable histories. Use our vehicle search tool to find cars to suit your needs and budget, safe in the knowledge that you are buying a car with real, verified mileage.