Clocking

An illegal practice that involves reducing the stated mileage of a vehicle by turning back the odometer. This technique is used by dishonest vendors to obtain a higher price for the vehicle.

It is thought that 1 in 12 vehicles have some sort of odometer discrepancy; buyers should ask to see service records, old MOT certificates and all other documentation to help verify a used car's mileage. They should also check the driver's seat, pedal rubbers, steering wheel and gearlever for signs of excessive wear for the car's mileage.

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