Clocking The Meter In Used Cars
Car clocking is a worrying habit that sees rogue traders winding the car mileage meters back, so it looks like a vehicle has done far less miles than it actually has. The practice has been a well knwon and often used tactic for decades to make unsuspecting buyers pay over the odds for cars, but if the most recent research by the BBC is anything to go by, they are becoming far more common and there are now as many as one in seven of these vehicles on our roads.
It's worrying that when we buy a car we may fall prey to this scam, but there are some handy hints that you can follow to ensure you are not being duped into buying a dodgy motor.
Check to see the state of the car; if it seems to have not done that many miles but the bonnet is very chipped and the steering wheel is shiny, this may indicate that the car has done more miles than you think. By using common sense you should minimise worry.
Try to buy a car that has an up to date MOT and service history. This, as well as the original copy of the log book, the vehicle identification number and a current tax disc will be a sure fire way of telling whether the car is a little gem, or in fact too good to be true.
There are some sites that you can use that allow you to put the mileage into a checker. You have to pay for this service but for the relatively small cost you can be safe in the knowledge that your car hasn't been tampered with.
Make sure that you use your common sense. We are always guilty of ignoring our gut feelings, but if it really feels too good to be true then the chances are, it probably is.
If you are driving a car in the UK, whether it be brand new or a second hand vehicle, then make sure you Compare Car Insurance online to really get you the best saving, to spend your pennies elsewhere.
About the Author:
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/clocking-the-meter-in-used-cars-4756417.html
Article Tags:
cars
,car insurance
How to Find Car Insurance at Every Stage of Life
Kim Lankford explains how to get lower car insurance at every stage of your life. (02:55)
Author: Laura Hartson