Odometer Verification
Detect mileage discrepancies and odometer rollback
Odometer fraud - rolling back a vehicle's mileage to make it appear less used - remains one of the most common forms of vehicle fraud in the United States. NHTSA estimates that odometer fraud costs American car buyers over $1 billion per year. Our odometer verification traces mileage readings throughout a vehicle's history to identify inconsistencies.
How We Verify Odometer Readings
Our reports compile odometer readings from multiple touchpoints throughout a vehicle's life:
- State vehicle inspections and emissions tests
- Title transfers and registration renewals
- Service and maintenance records from dealerships and repair facilities
- Insurance claim records
- Auto auction sale records
By plotting these readings chronologically, our system can detect if the mileage ever decreases - a strong indicator of odometer tampering.
Red Flags for Odometer Fraud
Mileage Rollback
A recorded reading lower than a previous reading for the same vehicle
Exceeds Mechanical Limits
The odometer has rolled past its maximum display (e.g., 99,999 to 00,000)
Not Actual Mileage
A title branded with 'not actual mileage' indicating known discrepancy
Unusually Low Miles
Mileage significantly below the average 12,000–15,000 miles per year
The Impact of Odometer Fraud
- Overpaying: A vehicle with 120,000 miles disguised as 60,000 miles can be overpriced by thousands of dollars
- Maintenance: Critical maintenance intervals (timing belt, transmission service) may have been missed or are overdue
- Wear items: Brakes, suspension, and drivetrain components wear with use - higher actual mileage means these parts are closer to failure
- Warranty: Manufacturer warranties are mileage-based and may have already expired
Federal Odometer Law
Under the federal Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, it is illegal to disconnect, reset, or alter a vehicle's odometer with intent to change the mileage reading. Sellers are required to provide a written disclosure of the odometer reading at the time of sale. Violators face fines and criminal penalties. If you suspect odometer fraud, you may have legal recourse under both federal and state consumer protection laws.
Verify a vehicle's mileage history
Odometer records are included in every LookupVIN report.
RUN VIN CHECK