Used Cars for Sale in Pakistan: How to Verify a Car’s Mileage

When buying a used car in Pakistan, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the mileage. A car’s mileage, or the number of kilometers it has traveled, can give you significant insights into its wear and tear, overall condition, and remaining lifespan. However, verifying the accuracy of a car’s mileage is not always straightforward. Some sellers may try to tamper with the odometer to make the car appear less used than it really is. To avoid falling victim to such tactics, here are some effective ways to verify a car’s mileage before making a purchase.

1. Check the Odometer Reading

The first step in verifying a car’s mileage is to simply check the odometer reading. This is the most direct way to see how many kilometers the car has traveled. However, keep in mind that odometers can be tampered with, so you’ll need to use other methods to ensure its accuracy.

Red Flags:

• If the odometer reading appears unusually low for the car's age, this might be a sign of tampering.

• Look for signs of tampering on the odometer itself, such as scratches or inconsistencies in the digits.

2. Inspect the Service and Maintenance History

A well-maintained car will typically have service records that include details on oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations, and other maintenance activities. These records often include the odometer reading at the time of service, which can help you track whether the mileage is consistent over time.

What to Look for:

• Check for stamps or receipts from authorized service centers.

• Compare the mileage on the service history with the current odometer reading.

• If the car has been serviced regularly, the mileage should be consistent with the number of years it has been on the road.

3. Verify the Vehicle’s History Using a Car Inspection Service

One of the most reliable ways to confirm a car’s mileage is to use a professional car inspection service like Famewheels. They can provide a detailed history report of the car, including its mileage and whether it has been rolled back or altered. Inspection services often use diagnostic tools that can check the car’s onboard systems to identify discrepancies in the odometer readings.

What Inspection Services Can Reveal:

• Detailed vehicle history, including previous owners and mileage at different points in time.

• Possible odometer rollback or discrepancies in mileage.

• Assessment of the car’s general condition, helping you make an informed decision.

4. Check the Vehicle’s Condition

Sometimes, the overall condition of the car can provide clues about its true mileage. A car with very low mileage but worn-out seats, rust, or other signs of heavy use may indicate that the mileage is not accurate.

What to Inspect:

• Seats and Upholstery: Worn-out seats or heavily used pedal areas (brake and clutch) may indicate high mileage even if the odometer reads low.

• Engine and Exhaust: A car with low mileage should have minimal signs of engine wear. Excessive rust or oil stains in the engine bay may indicate higher usage than the odometer suggests.

• Suspension and Tires: Check the wear on the tires and the condition of the suspension. Uneven tire wear or a stiff suspension can suggest that the car has been driven more than its stated mileage.

5. Use Online Vehicle History Reports

In some cases, you can access online services that track the history of a car based on its VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). These services can provide a detailed report on the car's mileage, previous accidents, service history, and more. Although this might not always be available in Pakistan, it's worth checking if the car is from a manufacturer or seller who offers such reports.

6. Inspect the Car’s Documentation

Some vehicles in Pakistan have detailed documentation that can help verify the car’s mileage. These documents include the car's registration papers and import/export history, which might mention the mileage when the car was first imported or last registered.

What to Look For:

• Check if the car’s registration documents match the odometer reading.

• Some provincial transport departments may keep records of vehicle inspections that include mileage details.

7. Ask the Seller for Transparency

Always ask the seller for detailed information about the car’s mileage and any maintenance work that has been done. Genuine sellers will be able to provide service records, maintenance receipts, and any relevant documents to verify the mileage. If the seller is hesitant or refuses to provide this information, it could be a red flag.

Conclusion

Verifying the mileage of a used car is an essential step in ensuring you’re making a sound investment. While checking the odometer is the first step, it’s crucial to take additional measures like reviewing service records, using professional inspection services like Famewheels, and carefully examining the car’s condition. A well-maintained car with verified mileage can offer great value, while a car with tampered or inaccurate mileage can lead to expensive repairs down the road.