The used car market can be a minefield, with unscrupulous sellers employing tactics to inflate prices. One common method is odometer tampering, making a car appear less driven than it actually is. This practice is prevalent in India, affecting popular models like the Hyundai Verna. A seemingly well-maintained car with a suspiciously low mileage could hide a history of heavy use and potential mechanical problems.
One such case involved a 2008 Hyundai Verna, initially driven for 90,000 kilometers in five years. The owner, before selling, installed beige seat covers which became soiled over time. Weeks later, the same car reappeared with a fresh paint job, new number plates, and an odometer reading of only 60,000 kilometers. The suspiciously clean interior and a single soiled headrest on the back seat exposed the deception. The original selling price was ₹1.5 lakhs, but the unsuspecting buyer paid ₹3 lakhs. Even factoring in a ₹30-40k respray, the dealer profited significantly.
This incident highlights the ease of odometer manipulation and the potential financial ramifications for buyers. The reduced mileage falsely inflated the car’s value, leading to a significant loss for the buyer who later faced costly repairs, including a ₹3 lakh engine rebuild due to a failed water pump. The car was eventually resold for a mere ₹1 lakh.
This experience underscores the importance of verifying service history before purchasing a used car. While comprehensive service records from authorized service centers offer valuable insights, validating services performed at independent garages (FNGs) can be more challenging. A thorough inspection and due diligence are crucial to avoid falling victim to odometer fraud.
Potential buyers should be wary of unusually low mileage for a car’s age. Consulting with a trusted mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection can help identify potential issues masked by odometer correction. Be particularly cautious if the vehicle’s condition doesn’t align with the indicated mileage.
