Odometer fraud is pretty much just like it sounds. It's a situation in which someone has illegally taken miles off an odometer. In some instances, it's called a rollback; in others it's called clocking. It doesn't make any difference. The goal of the unscrupulous seller is to have a lot less miles shown on the odometer in order to increase the vehicle's resale value. ADOT's Office of the Inspector General investigates several cases of odometer fraud each year.
ADOT wants to educate consumers in order to prevent them from becoming victims of odometer fraud. Consumer resources include Carfax.com or AutoCheck.com. Potential buyers should also research the history of a vehicle through a VIN check and have a reputable mechanic inspect the vehicle before it is purchased.
For more consumer tips, and to learn more about ADOT's role in investigating odometer fraud, watch the video produced by ADOT's News Operations Team.
To obtain more information about odometer fraud or to report a case of odometer fraud, contact the OIG unit at 602.712.6270.
