What is a mileage check?

Every UK MOT records the odometer reading. Stored digitally since 2005, those readings form a mileage timeline for every tested vehicle.

It's the most reliable free way to spot clocking. We show every reading, calculate average annual mileage, and auto-flag drops between tests. Pair it with the full MOT history to see advisories and failures alongside.

How to spot a clocked car

An estimated 1 in 16 UK used cars has been clocked. Illegal, but tough to prosecute. Warning signs:

• Mileage drops between MOT tests — the clearest indicator.
• Large gaps without MOT — possibly off-road specifically to obscure mileage.
• Wear inconsistent with stated mileage — worn pedals, shiny wheel, sagging seats on a "low miles" car.
• Unusually low for the age — UK average is 7,000–10,000/year. A 5-year-old with 15k deserves questions.
• Service stamps that don't match MOT mileage — story doesn't add up.

More detail in our buyer's guide to clocked cars.

What to do if you suspect clocking

• Review the timeline — every reading; check annual increases for consistency.
• Inspect physical wear — pedals, wheel, gear knob, bolsters, door handles.
• Confront the seller — ask them to explain. Legitimate sellers should have docs.
• Cross-reference service records — stamps and invoices give an independent paper trail.
• Walk away if the seller can't explain.

Suspect fraud? Report to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) and Trading Standards. Already bought? You may have a claim under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Why mileage matters

Mileage drives a used car's value, insurance, warranty remaining, and service-cost expectations. Brakes, clutches, suspension, timing belts — most service intervals are mileage-based.

A high-mileage car with full service history beats a low-mileage one that's been neglected. Pattern matters more than the number on the clock. Pair this with our free valuation to see how mileage affects market value.

Frequently asked questions