CAA-Quebec warns against tampered odometers

Press release
Published on March 7, 2019

Investigative journalists at TVA’s JE prove the practice is still widespread

CAA-Quebec contributed to a JE report revealing that odometer tampering is still happening, even on late-model vehicles replete with computers, screens, and buttons. Here’s an overview of the problem and tips to avoid this all-too-common scam. 

=> Watch JE’s report on tampered odometers from March 7, 2019. 

The investigative journalists at JE provide clear proof that this fraudulent practice is still widespread in the used car market. They also show the disconcerting ease with which hackers can “roll back” time and mileage.

Tampered odometers: A big money issue 

Scammers’ objectives are clear: reactivating the warranty and selling the vehicle at a higher price. For example, the estimated value of a 2015 Honda Civic with 180,000 km is $5,300, but with 60,000 km it’s valued at $11,300. “For duped buyers, it’s like throwing money in the trash,” says Pierre-Serge Labbé, Vice President of Automotive Services at CAA-Quebec. “Plus, mechanical problems and maintenance issues can happen much sooner than expected.” 

These fraudulent acts are costly for consumers and difficult to prove. Seeking compensation can be a challenge. All good reasons to be on your guard when shopping for a used vehicle. Check out our tips on how to steer clear. 

Tips for avoiding tampered odometers 

  • Look closely. It’s important to pay close attention to clues that may indicate high mileage like rust, scratches, a worn hood and windshield, yellowed or opaque headlights, worn pedals, and so on. 
  • Take a test drive. The list of things to check during a road test may be long, but it’s 100% necessary in order to make the right decision.
  • Get it inspected. Dentists take x-rays because they can’t see everything with the naked eye. Your mechanic doesn’t have an x-ray machine, but it’s the same idea! By having a used vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic or at a CAA-Quebec Vehicle Inspection Centre, prospective buyers get a reliable, independent opinion they can use to make an informed decision. Spending a few dollars can help you avoid lemons, rotten tomatoes, and other misadventures. Plus, inspections often identify flaws that will help you negotiate in your favour! 
  • Ask questions. Don’t hesitate to ask the seller about issues identified during the test drive or inspection. Ask why they are selling, the number of previous owners, the annual mileage (make sure it checks out with the odometer reading), whether the vehicle has been involved in an accident, and whether they can show maintenance bills. If the answers are evasive or unsatisfactory, run—don’t walk—away! 
  • Investigate. You don’t need to be Sherlock Holmes. If the seller is an individual, why not look them up on Facebook? Have they posted any other classified ads? You can check whether any complaints have been filed against dealers on the Office de la protection du consommateur website. Here are additional resources if you want to investigate further: the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec Vehicle Record1 lists changes made by owners and serious accidents, along with the mileage at each registration, Carfax provides a history of collisions and claims with the mileage at each claim, and the Registre des droits personnels et réels mobiliers (Quebec’s Register of Personal and Moveable Real Rights, French only) will tell you if any debts are linked to the vehicle.
  • Get informed. Knowing the vehicle’s list price means you can ask questions if the sale price is not within the listed range. CAA-Quebec Automotive Advisory Services can provide this information free of charge and answer members’ questions about the reliability of used vehicles. 

Trust your instincts! 

When it seems too good to be true, you have to trust your gut. Don’t buy a vehicle if you have a bad feeling about it.

About CAA-Quebec

CAA-Quebec is a not-for-profit organization that helps its members by offering mobility, travel, insurance, and residential benefits, products and services.

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1 Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec Vehicle Record