How to Check Vehicle Mileage?

[OJason]

The speedometer indicates the vehicle's speed in km/h (kilometers per hour). The odometer actually consists of two gauges: a speedometer and a mileage counter. The odometer is typically located directly in front of the driver's position. Mileage refers to the total kilometers traveled. Methods to verify mileage: 1. Steering wheel wear: Daily steering wheel usage leaves noticeable marks over time. Since steering wheels are rarely replaced, they best reflect usage frequency. However, some owners use steering wheel covers, complicating assessment. Regardless, many interior wear signs are undeniable, such as peeling center console or gear lever surfaces - these indicate far more than 30,000-50,000 km of use. Prolonged seat pressure reduces elasticity, with noticeable aging where leather becomes shiny and stiff. Plastic knobs and adjustment tabs also develop a polished appearance from repeated use. Be cautious as sellers may apply thick dashboard wax to conceal interior wear. 2. Brake pad condition: Normally, brake discs last over 100,000 km. Exceptionally new discs on vehicles older than 5 years suggest replacement, indicating actual mileage exceeding 100,000 km. Higher mileage also correlates with greater engine wear, leading to reduced sealing performance evidenced by oil leaks, power loss, sluggish acceleration, poor performance, oil burning, or blue exhaust smoke. Check these aspects during test drives when purchasing used vehicles. 3. Tire wear patterns: Tire condition offers the most visible mileage indicator besides the odometer. Experienced buyers examine multiple tires. Flattened tread patterns and rounded edges suggest extensive use. Average tire lifespan is approximately 50,000 km. Mismatched tire wear may indicate accident-related replacements. Note this method mainly applies to relatively new used cars, as older vehicles' tire replacement cycles become unreliable mileage indicators.