How to Tell if a Used Car's Odometer Has Been Rolled Back?

[Athena]

Here are specific methods to determine if a used car's odometer has been rolled back: 1. Check maintenance records: Visit the 4S shop to inquire about the vehicle's maintenance records. This is the simplest and most straightforward method. It is particularly suitable for relatively new cars, as such vehicles are typically serviced at 4S shops, allowing access to their maintenance records. 2. Observe interior wear and aging: Experienced mechanics can often spot discrepancies by examining the wear and aging of the interior, as wear levels are proportional to the vehicle's mileage. Key areas to inspect include: the dust cover under the gear lever, door panels and handles, dashboard buttons, center console, seat edges for wear and shine, which can help estimate the vehicle's mileage. 3. Check steering wheel and pedal wear: The wear on the steering wheel, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and clutch pedal directly reflects the vehicle's usage frequency. These are the parts most frequently touched by the driver. While some drivers use steering wheel covers to reduce wear, subtle signs of wear can still be detected. 4. Tire wear and production date: Experienced drivers know that car tires typically last around 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers. If the tire treads are flat or the edges are worn smooth, it indicates the car has been driven extensively. When inspecting a used car, if the four tires show uneven wear, it may suggest the car was involved in an accident. If all tires have been replaced, the mileage likely exceeds 50,000 kilometers. 5. Inspect the OBD port: Another method is to check the OBD port, though this is less commonly used unless for maintenance checks, so it can serve as a supplementary reference.