How do I check a used car's mileage is genuine?

nidirect warns that clocking is illegal and can hide the true wear, value and service requirements of a vehicle. Start by checking recorded mileages in MOT history and service records for a logical progression over time.

Look for inconsistencies such as mileage dropping between years, large unexplained gaps or old invoices showing a higher figure than the dashboard. A comprehensive vehicle-history check can also flag mileage discrepancies.

Mileage alone does not determine condition: a correctly maintained high-mileage car can be better than a neglected low-mileage one. The real warning sign is evidence that the mileage story does not match the paperwork, wear or previous records.

For 'How do I check a used car's mileage is genuine?', keep a written record of the exact vehicle, seller details and checks you relied on before payment. That evidence is far more useful later than relying on memory or verbal promises.