Service NSW Takes a Step Forward
Service NSW has finally taken a critical step in combating odometer fraud by launching a new service on 16 June 2023. Through the Service NSW smartphone app, consumers can now perform a free odometer check for vehicles over 5 years old. The odometer data is sourced from the pink and blue slip records. This initiative is expected to protect consumers from the potential pitfalls of buying used cars with tampered odometers.
However, there is room for improvement. For instance, the current system deletes the fourth oldest data entry if a vehicle undergoes inspection three times in succession.
Professional fraudsters might exploit this by inserting tools into the inspection multiple times. It is imperative that Service NSW addresses this issue and enhances the system. Furthermore, a solution must be found for non-registration vehicles, which currently fall outside the purview of this service.
Carify’s Commitment to Countering Odometer Fraud
Carify has been dedicated to protecting Australian drivers from odometer fraud since 2019. This makes Carify a leader in the field. We are thrilled and give a big thumbs-up to Service NSW for their odometer check initiative.
At Carify, we're crossing our fingers and eagerly looking forward to other states jumping on the bandwagon. Our eye-opening statistics shed light on the alarming magnitude of this issue:
- A staggering 16.7% of comprehensive reports have odometer rollback, according to Carify data.
- On average, odometer readings are off by 84,719 km (median), with the highest discrepancy reaching 172,233 km.
- In Australia, odometer fraud is most prevalent in New South Wales (48.6%), followed by Victoria (22.9%), Queensland (17.1%), South Australia (8.6%), and Tasmania (2.9%).
- Vehicles between 10 and 15 years old are most vulnerable to odometer rollback.
- The vehicle that is most susceptible to odometer tampering is the Toyota Yaris. It is followed by Toyota Land cruiser, Mazda 3, Toyota Camry, and Mitsubishi Lancer.
One Carify customer, Mr. Y, was charged an alarming amount for a second-hand vehicle. The vehicle was advertised with an odometer reading of 65,000 km. The amount Mr. Y was charged was $41,000. However, a Carify report revealed the actual mileage to be 150,000 km.
How to Safeguard Against Odometer Fraud
Before purchasing a used car, it’s crucial to conduct an odometer check. You might be surprised to learn that odometer fraud is not a rarity.
A Google search for "odometer correction service" yields 7.3 million results. This indicates that there is a demand for these services.
Moreover, the tools for odometer tampering are readily available for around $120. It is possible to purchase clusters on eBay. Owner's manuals and service book stamps can be acquired or created easily.
Our Car History Check Report integrates an odometer check, drawing from reputable third-party sources across all Australian states. Carify provides a detailed report. Service NSW also offers data.
Together, this gives you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Carify's odometer check feature is dependent on data availability. We are committed to being transparent. We want to make sure you understand the data that is available before you complete a transaction.
Discover why choosing Carify is a wise decision, and learn more about our pricing policy here: Why Choose Carify?.
Special Note on Japanese Imported Vehicles
Carify's data shows that the Nissan Skyline is the most targeted Japanese import vehicle for odometer fraud. If your vehicle is a recent import with a VIN number beginning with 6Z, odometer fraud is less common. However, for vehicles with a VIN number beginning with 6U, it is highly advisable to scrutinize the vehicle's odometer history.
