How to Check the Mileage on a Car Dashboard?
3 Answers
The mileage of a car is displayed on the dashboard as ODO, followed by the unit (km). The car odometer also includes two LCD digital display windows connected to the same signal source, which respectively accumulate the current trip mileage and the total mileage. The current trip mileage usually has four digits for short-term counting and can be reset; the total mileage has six digits and cannot be reset. Additional information is as follows: 1. Classification of car mileage: Generally, there are two types of car mileage—one is the total mileage the vehicle has traveled, and the other is the measurable total mileage. 2. Measurable mileage: The owner can manually reset it. There is usually a small button (cylindrical) next to the number, and pressing it for a long time can reset it. 3. Total mileage traveled by the vehicle: Normally, it cannot be reset, but some used car dealers can adjust the value through instruments. The number can only increase unidirectionally (the number gets larger and larger), and the displayed number indicates the actual kilometers traveled. 4. Check the manual: Due to differences in car models and brands, the display on the dashboard may vary.
I often drive to and from work, and checking the odometer on the dashboard means focusing on the central part. Most cars have a small digital display next to the speedometer, showing ODO or Trip, which indicates the total mileage and trip mileage. I prefer checking it when parked to avoid distractions while driving. Some cars have analog gauges, requiring you to squint to read them clearly, while modern vehicles feature fully digital displays that are easy to read at a glance. Total mileage is crucial for maintenance, such as oil changes every 5,000 kilometers, which I make sure to record. If it's hard to see, it might be due to backlight issues or a dirty screen—simply wiping it clean should help. Checking it regularly helps you get familiar with its location, so you don’t have to notice it only when speeding.
As a car enthusiast, I pay attention to mileage details. There are differences between models: traditional dashboards use mechanical needles with digital displays, where ODO is usually positioned at the bottom; high-end vehicles feature LCD screens integrating mileage into multi-function displays. After starting the car, press the info button to toggle between total mileage and trip mileage. I recommend doing this while parked in a safe area to avoid button misoperation. Mileage isn't just a number—it affects warranty periods and maintenance schedules, with 40,000 km being the industry standard for major overhauls. Occasionally check for loose wiring or battery connections to prevent display abnormalities, as clear visibility enhances driving confidence.
