Evading the Trap of Car Clocking

Buying a used car has become a rising trend with an increasing number of buyers browsing the car lots of used car dealers to purchase a ‘new’ used car. With the increased durability of automobile components, today’s cars are built to last longer. The fact that you can browse through a vehicle’s history, provenance and service records by availing the Vehicle History Document makes purchasing a used car a trustworthy venture as well. But buyers should steer clear of malpractices perpetrated in the used car selling industry. Clocking refers to one of such deceitful tactics wherein the odometer of a car is rolled back to display a lower mileage.

The lower the odometer reading, the higher the price a used car seller can demand. Buying a clocked car can not only be an expensive affair but it can also be dangerous. An inaccurate estimate of the car’s age can cause you to delay essential repairs. There are certain measures you can take to avoid becoming a victim of car clocking.

How to avoid buying a clocked car

• ·        Look for signs of tampering

Get a certified mechanic on-board to help you inspect the odometer for signs of tampering. One of the possible signs of odometer clocking is misaligned digits on the odometer.

• ·        Peruse the vehicle history documents

You can obtain the vehicle history documents of a used car from the car dealer or online from web services such as Carfax and AutoCheck. You can compare the displayed mileage of the car to what is mentioned in the documents.

• ·        Assess the condition of the car

Inspect the car for chips on the bonnet and bumper that could indicate long journeys. Worn out carpets and mats, seats and pedal rubbers can also point towards a car that has been driven for more miles than what the odometer reading reflects.

Reputable classifieds websites can make your car buying experience a much more reliable process. SoloAutos is one such website that provides listings of used cars in San Antonio and other Texas cities. The information provided is comprehensive and credible, making for a hassle-free buying experience for those who’d like to purchase used cars in San Antonio.