Yes, modern digital odometers can be reprogrammed using software, hence odometer checks are even more critical.

Here’s how you can check odometer rollback: 

- Verify service records.

- Check for wear and tear.

- Use CARS24 professional odometer fraud check for accurate detection.

You can report odometer fraud to local transport authorities or consumer protection agencies.

No, knowingly selling a car with a tampered odometer is illegal and subject to penalties.

Common methods of odometer fraud:

Traditional mechanical odometers were easier to tamper with due to their simple components. At first, digital odometers seemed more secure, but over time, easy availability of tools like OBDII sensors made it easy for fraudsters to roll back digital readings as well.

- Digital Rollback: Fraudsters use tools like OBD sensors to reduce the kilometer reading on digital odometers, making the car seem less used. However, this method is not foolproof since the car’s ECU (Electronic Control Unit) stores the real km reading, which can still be accessed.

- Mechanical Tampering: Older analog odometers are manually rolled back to reduce the displayed kilometers. Signs of this include unevenly spaced numbers, scratched instrument panels, and misaligned needles.

- Cluster Swapping: The entire odometer unit or instrument cluster is replaced with one showing a lower reading. Clues to this fraud include worn-out screw marks and uneven gaps in the dashboard.

CARS24 verifies odometer readings through digital diagnostics, service history checks, and expert analysis. Our system detects inconsistencies, helping you identify potential tampering before making a purchase.

Odometer tampering can lead to legal consequences  and culprits caught performing such activities can face heavy fines. Such cases are usually sorted in the consumer forum at a district level.

Odometer readings can be detected by using a scan tool such as an OBD sensor. The ECU data can be read, and the same reading can be shown on the odometer to fix a fraudulent reading problem.