Odometer Tampering Still Rife In Local Used Car Market

Low mileage doesn’t always mean a car is “young” and in Malaysia’s used car scene, it could be a trap.

Automotive influencer and Johor-based used car dealer Bro Wong claims as many as 70% of used cars on the market have had their mileage rolled back to make them look newer and more valuable.

“It’s an open secret. Dealers buy high-mileage cars cheap, cut the mileage by half or more, then sell for triple the profit. Online, you’ll rarely see a used car listed with over 100,000km,” he said.

Some workshops use specialised devices to reset odometers, charging anywhere from RM50 to a few thousand ringgit depending on the car. Wong says buyers chasing low mileage deals often fuel the problem, believing it guarantees better condition, when it doesn’t.
Shady sellers often disguise ageing cars with fresh paint, flashy body kits, and new accessories to mask heavy wear. 

“Even seasoned dealers get tricked,” Wong said, noting that younger buyers tend to chase looks over reliability, a choice many regret once the repairs pile up.

Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Association of Malaysia president Datuk Tony Khor advised checking for wear on steering wheels, brake pedals, and seat cushions. 

“If these are worn but mileage is low, something’s wrong. For newer cars, verify mileage at authorised service centres and request full service records," he stated.

Penang Consumers Association president Mohideen Abdul Kader said breakdown complaints are common, urging buyers to avoid “too good to be true” deals and stick to vehicles with complete maintenance histories.

Source: Carsifu.