Everything Car Owners & Dealers Must Know About Mileage Correction
Mileage correction, or odometer adjustment, is a topic that sparks a lot of questions—especially among car owners and car dealers buying or selling used vehicles. Is it illegal? Can it be done ethically? And what are the consequences if it’s not handled correctly?
In this article, we’ll break it all down in simple terms. By the end, you’ll know exactly where UK law stands, how to protect yourself from mileage fraud, and where to turn if you’re looking for secure and legal mileage-related solutions.
What Is Mileage Correction?
Mileage correction refers to the process of adjusting a vehicle’s odometer reading. While that may sound suspicious at first, there are actually legitimate reasons why someone might need to do this, such as:
- Replacing a faulty or broken instrument cluster
- Fixing data discrepancies caused by MOT or service input errors
- Swapping parts between vehicles
However, as common as the practice may be, the legality depends entirely on intent and disclosure.
Is It Legal to Correct Mileage in the UK?
The Short Answer:
No, mileage correction is not illegal in the UK— as long as it’s not used to deceive the buyer.
What Is Illegal:
It becomes a criminal offense if someone:
- Sells a vehicle with a corrected odometer without disclosing the true mileage
- Uses mileage correction to inflate the value of a vehicle dishonestly
According to the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008, it is illegal to mislead a buyer regarding the history or condition of a product. Falsely advertising a car’s mileage clearly falls under this law.
Important Note: Selling a clocked car without disclosure can result in heavy fines or even imprisonment.
Mileage Fraud in the UK: The Shocking Statistics
A study by Rapid Car Check found that mileage discrepancies affect over 2.5 million vehicles on UK roads.
| Vehicle Model | Discrepancy Rate |
|---|---|
| Citroen Dispatch | 29.9% |
| Renault Scenic/Grand Scenic | 29.6% |
| Peugeot Expert | 28.6% |
Quick facts:
- 443,061 out of 7 million cars checked showed discrepancies.
- That’s 6.32% of all vehicles.
- 400,000+ vehicles had recorded lower mileages than previous MOT records.
Why Mileage Correction Tools Are Controversial
One of the main concerns today is the ease with which odometer adjustment tools can be purchased online. Some devices cost as little as £200 and can be used to change mileage readings in minutes.
This has led the Local Government Association (LGA) to push for a ban on DIY mileage correction tools to prevent abuse.
How to Protect Yourself from Mileage Fraud
If you’re buying a used car, here’s what you should do:
1. Always Check MOT History
Visit Gov.uk MOT History Checker to compare mileage readings.
2. Inspect the Service History
Look for consistent mileage records in service receipts and inspection reports.
3. Conduct a Mileage Check
Use trusted mileage verification services to ensure accuracy.
4. Look for Signs of Tampering
Check dashboard screws, wear on pedals, or signs of instrument cluster removal.
5. Buy from Reputable Dealers
Avoid “too-good-to-be-true” deals. Always ask for written confirmation of actual mileage.
Can You Correct Mileage for Legitimate Reasons?
Yes, if the odometer was:
- Replaced due to a fault
- Damaged in an accident
- Showing inconsistencies from a previous incorrect entry
You are allowed to correct the mileage as long as the new reading reflects the true value and is fully documented.
Looking for mileage correction tools? Explore our Mileage Blocker Tools designed to stop mileage recording during testing—not for fraud, but for track use and diagnostics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it illegal to use a mileage correction tool in the UK?
No, using the tool is not illegal if it’s not used for fraud. Selling a car with changed mileage and not disclosing it is illegal.
Can I fix an odometer after replacing the dashboard?
Yes, you can. But you must ensure the new mileage reflects the real total miles covered by the car.
What happens if I buy a car with clocked mileage?
You may be entitled to compensation. Report the seller to Trading Standards and seek legal advice.
Can mileage blockers be detected?
It depends on the car model and software. We provide high-quality blockers designed to remain undetectable during regular inspections.
Final Thoughts
Mileage correction isn’t illegal—but it must be transparent, documented, and honest. With over 2 million clocked vehicles in the UK, it’s crucial that buyers stay alert, and sellers stay compliant.
If you’re looking for legitimate tools or expert advice, explore our full range of Mileage Blocker Devices for diagnostic and off-road purposes.
Need help choosing the right mileage blocker? Contact Us Today — we’re happy to help.
