Odometer Rollback - A Serious Fraud


Posted September 26, 2023 by allenstewartpc

Allen Stewart is the go-to team of attorneys in Texas and the rest of the US for all cases pertaining to state-specific lemon laws.

 
Summary - See why Odometer rolled over is a serious crime and can prey on unassuming car buyers.

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When you’re in the market for a used car, you expect transparency and honesty from sellers. Unfortunately, not everyone plays by the rules. They carry out deceitful practices like odometer rolled over. This involves tampering with a vehicle’s mileage reading, which is not only unethical but also illegal.

The Deceptive Act of Odometer Rollback

You need to know what is odometer in car. It shows the car’s mileage. Odometer rollback involves altering a car’s mileage to make it appear as if it has been driven fewer miles than it actually has. This nefarious act aims to inflate the vehicle’s market value. This makes it more appealing to potential buyers. Unscrupulous sellers often resort to this fraud to maximize their profits.

The Legal Perspective

Odometer rollback is not just unethical; it’s a federal crime in many countries, including the United States. The Federal Odometer Act, part of the Truth in Mileage Act, makes it illegal to change or reset a vehicle’s odometer with the intent to defraud. Violators can face fines, imprisonment, or both.

Repercussions for Buyers

If you unknowingly purchase a car with a rolled-back odometer, you’re not just a victim of fraud; you may also encounter a range of issues, such as the below -

1. Overpaying: You might end up paying significantly more for the vehicle than it’s worth based on its actual mileage.
2. Hidden Wear and Tear: Cars with rolled-back odometers often have more wear and tear than their mileage suggests. This may lead to unexpected repair and maintenance costs.
3. Safety Risks: Vehicles with inaccurate mileage may not have received necessary maintenance. This may pose safety risks for you and other road users.
4. Resale Value: When you decide to sell the car, its true mileage will become apparent. This can potentially affect its resale value.

How to Protect Yourself from Odometer rolled over?

1 - Verify the Vehicle History: Use reputable vehicle history services to check a car’s history, including reported mileage readings. Look for inconsistencies or gaps in the records.
2 - Consult a Mechanic: Have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchase. They can identify any discrepancies between the mileage and the car’s actual condition.
3 - Check for Title Branding: Some states in the U.S. brand titles as ‘mileage unknown’ if there is suspicion of odometer rollback. Be cautious if you encounter such a title.

After knowing what is odometer in car, you need to be aware of the problem of odometer rollback issue as discussed above.

About company

Allen Stewart is the go-to team of attorneys in Texas and the rest of the US for all cases pertaining to state-specific lemon laws. They come across as a boon for individual car owners who would otherwise not have the chance to fight against auto dealers and emerge victorious.

Contact us

Allen Stewart P.C.

1700 Pacific Avenue
Suite 2750
Dallas, Texas 75201
Toll Free: 866-440-2460
Main: 214-965-8700
Site: https://www.allenstewart.com/
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Issued By Allen Stewart, P.C. Law Firm
Phone 866-440-2460
Business Address 1700 Pacific Avenue Suite 2750, Dallas Texas 75201
https://www.allenstewart.com/practice-areas/auto-fraud-attorneys/what-is-the-federal-odometer-law/
Country United States
Categories Law , Legal
Last Updated September 26, 2023