How You Can Work Out When A Car Has Been Clocked



Posted: Thursday, January 27, 2011

by Rudi O'Neil
motorkwik

Specific things have to be steered clear of when buying a used car. There are those in the world of used cars who simply cannot be trusted, and will willingly sell someone a problem motorcar. With that in mind, here are some key things to look out for in relation to 'clocking'.

It is not uncommon for a car to have its mileage reversed, a practice referred to as 'clocking'. Sellers who think nothing of conning someone for ready money are quite happy, dealing in clocked vehicles. Manufacturers find it more difficult than ever to halt sellers from clocking cars, because the internet gives sellers, or, 'clockers', simple access to the technology needed to clock a vehicle. Clocked motors can be relatively easy to spot though, if you know what to look for.

The look of a car can give a lot of clues as to whether or not the mileage of it is genuine mileage. The bonnet and bumper of a vehicle act as beneficial indicators as to how many miles it has done, and if a car has lots of scuffs and scratches in these areas then it is unlikely that the car would naturally have a low mileage. If a car shows evidence of this then the advice here is to stay well clear.

The driver pedals are an equally good way to ascertain whether an automobile has been clocked. Possibly the most unfailing way of spotting a clocked car is by looking at its pedals, which will be all worn down and uneven. Vehicle steering wheels invariably wear quite a lot, often developing a luster - use this as a clue, also.

Finally, research the amount of mileage on similarly aged vehicles to the one you are considering purchasing. As an estimation, the average car gets driven 10,000 miles a year. If you go and find a ten year old car then, and it says £5,000 miles on the speedo, then someone is looking to sell you a pig in a poke.

Rudi O'Neil is chief editor for motoring website, motorkwik.co.uk
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