Understanding Mileage and Its Sources When Buying a Car in the UK

When purchasing a car, one of the critical factors buyers consider is the vehicle’s mileage. Mileage can indicate the car’s usage level, potential wear and tear, and its remaining lifespan. However, understanding the reliability of the mileage recorded is equally important. Here are the primary sources of mileage data and what they mean for car buyers in the UK.

Where We Get Our Mileage History Data From

1. Recorded during MOT (MOT) – The Ministry of Transport (MOT) test is an annual check that assesses vehicle safety, roadworthiness, and emissions. The mileage recorded during these tests is highly reliable due to stringent government regulations. Each MOT test logs the vehicle’s mileage, creating a consistent historical record. This helps in verifying the authenticity of the mileage and identifying any discrepancies that might suggest tampering.

2. Recorded by DVLA during V5C/V62 Notification (DVLA) – The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) records mileage when a vehicle’s ownership is transferred or when updates to vehicle details are made using forms V5C or V62. This official documentation ensures accuracy and consistency as it involves government oversight. This data is particularly useful for tracking ownership changes and verifying mileage at different points in the vehicle’s life.

3. Recorded by British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Association Member (BVRLA) – Members of the British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Association (BVRLA) document mileage as part of their vehicle rental and leasing operations. These records are trustworthy due to the association’s strict industry standards. Rental and leasing companies meticulously track mileage to manage wear and tear and ensure proper maintenance schedules.

4. Recorded by Retail Motor Industry (RMI) Member  (RMI MIL’GE) –  Members of the Retail Motor Industry (RMI) record mileage during various services and checks. Regular maintenance records from these members provide consistent and reliable updates on a vehicle’s mileage. RMI members are typically independent garages and service centres that adhere to industry standards, adding another layer of reliability.

5. Recorded by Manufacturer (MANUFACTURER or MANUF’RER) – Vehicle manufacturers record mileage during production, initial delivery, and servicing. These records are reliable as they provide an accurate start point and ongoing service-based updates. Manufacturer records can include initial factory testing, delivery mileage, and any service performed by authorised dealers.

6. Recorded by Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) VOSA, now part of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), records mileage during vehicle inspections. This ensures compliance with regulations and accuracy of mileage data. VOSA’s records are especially relevant for commercial vehicles, which are subject to more frequent inspections.

7. Recorded during Vehicle Mileage Check (VMC) – Dedicated services for vehicle mileage checks offer verification of odometer readings, providing an additional layer of security against mileage fraud. These checks are often used in conjunction with other sources to ensure comprehensive verification.

8. Recorded by National Mileage Register (NMR) –  The National Mileage Register collects and records mileage data from various sources, helping detect and prevent odometer fraud. NMR’s extensive database is a key resource for verifying historical mileage and identifying any anomalies.

9. Recorded by National Association of Motor Auctions Member (NAMA)  – NAMA members record mileage during vehicle auctions, ensuring transparency and accurate information for buyers. Auction houses rely on accurate mileage to inform bidding and ensure fair market value assessments.

10. Recorded by Independent Service Garages (SERVICING) – Independent garages record mileage during routine maintenance and repair services. These records provide ongoing accuracy and reliability, often filling in gaps between MOT tests and manufacturer services.

11. Recorded by Warranty Provider (WARRANTY) – Warranty providers document mileage when a vehicle is covered under a warranty plan, helping to track vehicle usage accurately. This data is crucial for determining warranty claims and ensuring compliance with warranty terms.

Why Mileage Sources Matter

Accurate mileage data is crucial in assessing a vehicle’s value, detecting potential fraud, and understanding its history. Reliable sources mitigate the risk of odometer tampering, ensuring buyers get a fair deal and can trust the vehicle’s reported usage. Odometer fraud can significantly impact the value of a vehicle, leading to overpayment or unexpected maintenance costs. By relying on verified mileage sources, buyers can avoid these pitfalls.

Tips for Car Buyers

• Check Multiple Sources: Always verify mileage from multiple sources such as MOT records, DVLA documentation, and service history. Cross-referencing these records helps ensure accuracy.
• Ask Detailed Questions: Inquire about the history and sources of the mileage data from the seller. Understand when and where the mileage was recorded.
• Use a Vehicle Mileage Check: Consider using our vehicle mileage check service for additional verification. These services can provide comprehensive reports that highlight any inconsistencies in a vehicle’s history.
• Look for Red Flags: Be cautious of signs indicating tampered or inconsistent mileage, such as wear and tear that doesn’t match the recorded mileage, missing service records, or unusually low mileage for the vehicle’s age.

Understanding the various sources of mileage data and their reliability helps car buyers make informed decisions. By leveraging these sources, buyers can ensure they are purchasing vehicles with accurate and trustworthy mileage information. This not only helps in assessing the true value of the car but also protects against fraud and future maintenance surprises.