According to a recent study, clocked cars are on the rise*, but would you know how to spot one?
A clocked car is one which has had its displayed mileage lowered so it can be sold for a higher value. Selling a car without declaring its genuine mileage is not only illegal but also potentially dangerous to drivers because mileage is often used as an indicator of a car’s overall health.
Following figures that suggest as many as 2.3 million cars on UK roads display incorrect mileages**, the Retailer Principal at a local Volvo retailer has passed on their five top tips to help you avoid buying a clocked car.
Geoff Wicks from Marshall Grantham on Spittlegate Level said: “Clocked cars cost motorists millions every year, since higher-mileage, lower-value vehicles are being sold on at premium prices. Volvo prides itself on being a leader in safety, so I’ve supplied my top tips to show how you can avoid purchasing a clocked car.
1) Check service history A car’s mileage is recorded at every MOT test, so check that there are no gaps or questionable mileages where the number is unusually low for one or more years. Previous MOT tests can be checked online at gov.uk/check-mot-history-vehicle
2) Examine its condition The overall condition of a car will help to indicate how many miles it has travelled, so look for signs of corresponding wear and tear, including a worn steering wheel, pedals and interior switches. Also check for signs that measures have been taken to mask a car’s true mileage, including fresh paint covering bodywork damage.
3) Take it for a test drive Ideally, try to drive several examples of the same model so you know how the car should feel when you have your test drive. If there are clear differences between the cars, this may suggest that you are driving a clocked car.
4) Double-check the mileage Keep an eye on the mileage when you collect the car, because clocked car sellers sometimes roll back the mileage for the first viewing and return it to the original mileage after the sale so it appears legal.
5) Buy from a reputable used car retailer Consider buying from an approved used car programme such as Volvo Selekt. All cars are less than seven years old and have done fewer than 100,000 miles, as well as receiving more than 150 checks to meet Volvo’s exacting safety, performance and appearance standards. When replacements are required, only Volvo genuine parts are used, and each car also comes with twelve months’ warranty. For total peace of mind, there’s even a 30-day / 1,500 mile exchange guarantee to ensure you are 100% satisfied. On 8-11 November 2019, we will be offering 0% APR finance on Volvo Selekt approved used cars***, as well as up to £100 off accessories† and a minimum 12-month Volvo On Call‡ subscription.”
For further information about Marshall Grantham, to organise a test drive, or to find out more about the Volvo Selekt Approved Used Car Event, visit volvocarsgrantham.co.uk, email geoff.wicks@marshall.co.uk or call 01476 452867.
More information about Volvo Selekt is available here volvocars.com/Volvo-Selekt
* In 2017, one in 16 cars checked by hpi had a mileage discrepancy (https://www.hpi.co.uk/content/cost-of-car-clocking/car-clocking-explained/). In 2019, this figure had risen to one in 14 (https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/cars/article-6857143/Used-car-buyers-one-14-chance-buying-clocked-vehicle.html).
** https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/car-news/consumer-news/88547/car-clocking-is-mileage-correction-legal
*** Finance offer. 0% APR available on Conditional Sale on selected used vehicles purchased through Volvo Car Financial Services from 8 November until 11 November 2019 at participating retailers. Finance subject to status. 30% minimum deposit on V40 models. 50% minimum deposit on other models. Maximum term 36 months. Minimum £7,000 to finance. 18s or over. T&Cs apply. Offer on selected cars. Guarantees may be required. Volvo Car Financial Services, RH1 1SR.
† Accessories offer. Accessories offer available from Friday 8th November until Monday 11 November 2019. Minimum spend of £500 RRP required in order to receive £100 discount, or minimum spend of £250 RRP required in order to receive £50 discount.
‡ Volvo On Call offer. To be eligible for 12 months minimum subscription, the vehicle must be fitted with the Volvo On Call hardware when built at the factory. Offer available on eligible Volvo Selekt used cars purchased from Friday 8 November until Monday 11 November 2019.
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