Odometer fraud constitutes a real scourge in the used vehicle market. A recent study conducted by carVertical, a company specializing in automotive data, reveals an alarming correlation between displayed mileage and the risk of fraudulent manipulation. This illegal practice, aimed at underestimating the actual wear and tear of the vehicle, exposes potential buyers to considerable financial and security risks.
The increased risk of fraud with mileage
Analysis of the data collected by carVertical highlights a worrying trend: the higher the mileage of a vehicle, the greater the likelihood of meter fraud. This progression is not linear, but presents significant stages:
- Between 0 and 100,000 km: fraud rate stable at 1.9%
- From 100,000 to 150,000 km: slight increase at 2.7%
- Beyond 150,000 km: jump to 4.3%
- Between 250,000 and 300,000 km: peak at 9.8%
- From 300,000 to 350,000 km: peak at 15%
These figures underline the crucial importance of be careful when purchasing a vehicle with high mileage. Indeed, for cars with more than 500,000 km on the odometer, the risk of fraud reaches an alarming level of 30.1%. In other words, nearly one vehicle in three in this category has a falsified meter.
The consequences and associated risks
Odometer manipulation is not just about financial deception. It also has serious implications in terms of road safety. A vehicle whose actual mileage is underestimated may have unsuspected mechanical risksendangering the lives of its occupants and other road users.
Furthermore, the carVertical study reveals another worrying correlation: high mileage vehicles are more likely to have been involved in accidents. In France, cars having traveled between 250,000 and 300,000 km have the highest rate of involvement in accidents, reaching 65.6%.
It is important to note that meter fraud is not the only illegal practice in the automotive sector. This illegal trick to fool speed cameras can cost you dearly, illustrating the variety of risks motorists can face.
Prevention and precautions for buyers
Faced with these risks, it is essential for potential buyers of used vehicles to take precautions. Here are some key recommendations:
- Require full vehicle history
- Check the evolution of mileage over time
- Find out about repairs already carried out
- Use history check services like carVertical
- Have the vehicle inspected by an independent professional
These measures can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to meter fraud. It is also wise to compare the general condition of the vehicle with the mileage displayedpaying particular attention to the wear of parts and the general appearance of the passenger compartment.
Geographic trends and particularities
Meter fraud is not uniform across Europe. Some regions have higher fraud rates than others. The following table illustrates the disparities observed:
| Region | Fraud rate | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| Baltic States | Pupil | Very active second-hand market |
| Western Europe | AVERAGE | Stricter regulations |
| Southern Europe | Variable | Depends on countries |
It is vital to note that certain brands seem to be targeted more frequently by fraudsters. BMW, for example, features prominently in the ranking of the most trafficked vehicles. This overrepresentation could be explained by the high residual value of these vehiclesfurther encouraging fraud to maximize profits on resale.
In summary, vigilance remains essential for any buyer of used vehicles, particularly when it comes to high mileage models. A prudent and informed approach, combined with the use of appropriate verification tools, can significantly reduce the risks associated with this persistent form of fraud in the automotive market.
