The mechanic warns, these are signs that the car's mileage may have been restored.

A Spanish mechanic has warned buyers of used cars to be cautious, highlighting signs that the vehicle’s odometer might have been rolled back. The warning comes amid growing concerns over deceptive practices in the second-hand car market, where sellers often manipulate readings to inflate prices. According to a recent advisory from Spanish mechanic Bernat Escolano, who regularly shares tips on social media, many buyers overlook subtle clues that could indicate odometer tampering. His advice emphasizes that one should not rely solely on the number displayed on the dashboard. Escolano points out that overly pristine interiors can be a red flag. He suggests that buyers inspect the condition of seats, steering wheel, gear shift knobs, and floor mats carefully. If a car appears too well-maintained for its age, it may have been recently restored or modified. Conversely, if a vehicle shows signs of wear yet claims to have low mileage, this discrepancy warrants further investigation. He advises that such inconsistencies should raise suspicion among potential buyers. The mechanic also highlights other indicators, including unusual engine sounds and exhaust emissions. For example, white or blue smoke from the exhaust could signal issues with the engine, while black smoke during acceleration in diesel vehicles might point to problems with systems like the EGR valve or particulate filter. While these observations alone do not confirm a problem, they serve as early warnings that require closer examination by a professional. One of the primary reasons for odometer manipulation is the ease with which a lower reading can increase resale value. As a result, experts recommend that buyers verify more than just the displayed mileage. They suggest checking service records, maintenance invoices, and historical data through official or commercial databases. This process helps uncover discrepancies, such as a car previously recorded at 180,000 kilometers being sold at 140,000 today, clear evidence of possible fraud. Modern vehicles store odometer data not only in the dashboard but also in electronic modules. This means that even if the driver's display is altered, diagnostic tools can sometimes reveal inconsistencies. Therefore, Escolano recommends that prospective buyers take their vehicles to an independent workshop for a thorough inspection before finalizing a purchase. Such checks, though time-consuming, can prevent costly mistakes. Ultimately, the key takeaway is simple: if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Buyers should always double-check the history of a used car, especially when the seller presents an unusually attractive offer. The issue is not merely about the number of kilometers driven, but rather about the hidden ones that the seller has failed to disclose. By paying attention to these details, buyers can avoid falling victim to common scams in the used car market.