With today’s modern, tech savvy vehicles - are rolled-back odometers a thing of the past? Or, are roll-backs making a comeback?

Rolled-back odometers are rarely an issue with vehicles sold by OMVIC-Registered Dealers, partially because the consequences can be severe. They could be charged/prosecuted, disciplined and/or lose their licence. And, of course, they have to take back the vehicle and return all monies to the consumer (note: there are time limits for contract rescission). While roll-backs are not a major problem with vehicles sold by dealers, rolled-back odometers are a significant and growing problem amongst vehicles sold by curbsiders and dishonest private sellers.

So, how does the average Joe detect a rolled-back odometer? Or is this something only a highly-trained mechanic or the police can determine?

Detecting a Rolled-Back Odometer

If a consumer decides to buy a used vehicle from a private seller, OMVIC recommends purchasing a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) and/or CarProof (CarFAX) report – both may contain historical odometer readings. Consumers should carefully review these reports BEFORE making a decision. If the odometer reading on one of the reports is significantly higher than the current reading, that should be seen as a huge warning.

OMVIC also recommends having a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. He/she may uncover unusual wear on the vehicle for the model year and/or odometer reading.

And, as a buyer, you should look for signs of unusual wear including:

• Worn upholstery, carpet or steering wheel cover
• Worn suspension components
• Pitted/sand-blasted looking windshield
• Worn rubber pad(s) on brake/gas/clutch pedal(s)

Failure by a dealer/salesperson to disclose that a vehicle’s odometer has been rolled-back is grounds for rescission within 90 days of delivery. Consumers who suspect the odometer of the vehicle they have purchased (or plan to purchase) has been rolled-back, should contact OMVIC’s Complaints & Inquiries Team.

To learn more about “how to protect yourself when buying privately”, click here.