Should I Buy a Vehicle with a Rolled-Back Odometer? What to Do if You Discover One

Buying a car with a rolled-back odometer can be a costly mistake, but if you are unfortunate enough to find yourself in such a situation, it is important to know what to do. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to take when you discover a rolled-back odometer on a vehicle that you have just purchased.

What is Odometer Fraud?

Before we dive into the steps you should take, it is important to understand what odometer fraud is. Odometer fraud happens when a seller intentionally resets or rolls back the vehicle's mileage to make it appear that the car has fewer miles on it than it actually does. This can result in a significantly higher resale value, but it is unethical and illegal. If you find out that a vehicle has a rolled-back odometer, it could indicate a wider problem with the vehicle or the seller's honesty.

What to Do if You Discover a Rolled-Back Odometer

1. **Contact the Local DMV or State Department of Revenue**: Once you are certain that the odometer has been rolled back, you should contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the state Department of Revenue (DoR). They can help you take the necessary actions to protect your rights and prevent the fraudulent vehicle from being registered again. According to the DoR, it is recommended to file a police report before contacting them.

2. **Talk to the Buyer**: Approach the buyer and discuss the situation. The first step should be for the buyer to accept your money back. A vehicle with a high mileage can significantly impact its resale value, and it is not fair to you as a buyer if it was misrepresented. If the buyer refuses to provide a refund, report them as they are involved in a serious legal offense known as odometer fraud.

3. **Document Everything**: Keep detailed records of all communications, emails, and any documentation related to the purchase. This includes the invoice, the purchase contract, and any conversations you have with the seller or DMV. Documentation can be crucial if you need to take legal action or report the seller.

Taking Stronger Actions if Necessary

4. **Report the Seller**: If the buyer refuses to cooperate, report them to the authorities. A pattern of weaving lies, especially about the vehicle's condition, can indicate deeper issues, and this may result in legal action against the seller. If the seller is a fly-by-night operation or you cannot contact them, go to the DMV and explain the situation, using the term 'broken odometer.'

5. **Replace the Odometer**: If the vehicle is not your own, consider arranging for an independent repair shop to replace the odometer. Once it is fixed, you can get a sticker from the DMV that is placed on the door panel, identifying the vehicle as having had its odometer replaced. This sticker can be crucial for the vehicle's future owners to understand the true condition of the car.

Conclusion

Buying a car with a rolled-back odometer can lead to significant financial losses and complications. Therefore, it is vital to take immediate action if you discover such a problem. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can protect your rights and ensure that you are not cheated during the car purchasing process.

Remember, honesty and transparency are the cornerstones of a fair and reliable market. If you encounter widespread issues with odometer fraud, consider sharing your experience with consumer protection organizations and forums to raise awareness.