THE QUICK ANSWER
Compare dated odometer readings from test records, service invoices and a history report. Convert miles and kilometres into the same unit first. A falling reading needs investigation, while a steadily rising set of readings still cannot prove that the mileage is genuine.
Build a simple mileage timeline
Collect the date, reading, unit and source for each record. Keep the original documents or images so you can revisit them. Then arrange the readings from oldest to newest and compare them with the current dashboard.
Our miles and kilometres converter helps put mixed units on the same basis. It performs a calculation only; it does not verify an odometer or search any records.
Check the units before drawing a conclusion
One mile equals 1.609344 kilometres. An imported vehicle might have service documents recorded in miles and a later dashboard display in kilometres. A change of units can produce a large apparent jump without any change to the distance actually travelled.
Illustrative example: 60,000 miles is approximately 96,561 kilometres. Comparing 60,000 directly with a later reading of 90,000 kilometres would hide an apparent decrease. Convert first, and then investigate the dates and source documents.
Investigate discrepancies without guessing
Clocking means altering the odometer to make the vehicle appear less used. The CCPC warns buyers about the problem and explains how to report concerns. A discrepancy can also involve a recording error or a documented instrument replacement, so an alert requires evidence rather than an instant accusation.
Ask the seller to explain the difference and provide documents. Ask the report provider how it handles disputed readings. Do not accept a verbal explanation when the discrepancy materially affects your buying decision.
Look beyond a perfect-looking graph
Gaps in records matter. A rising timeline may contain only two observations separated by years. It cannot account for every kilometre driven between them. Dashboard wear, servicing and a professional inspection provide other evidence to consider.
There is no mileage threshold that proves fraud or makes a used car reliable. Use the timeline to ask better questions, and keep unresolved uncertainty visible when comparing cars.
Sources & further reading
Public resources consulted for this guide. Links and availability can change. Checked 19 October 2026.
- CCPC: crashed and clocked cars
Mileage tampering, misleading sales and reporting concerns.
- NCTS: National Car Test manual
Test standards, identification and the limitations of a test at a point in time.
- GOV.UK: check a vehicle’s MOT history
Official UK test history service; availability depends on vehicle and jurisdiction.
Our guides explain a buying process; they do not determine a particular vehicle’s condition or your legal position. Read our editorial policy.