Mileage fraud consultation – NFDA response

“Mileage fraud is a huge problem for the UK and urgent action needs to be taken. We are pleased to see that the government has taken the issue seriously and we have responded to the consultation outlining the implications of this practice and the urgent need to make it illegal”, said Sue Robinson, director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA).

The NFDA, which represents commercial vehicle and franchised car retailers across the UK, has been actively campaigning to raise awareness of mileage fraud and seek the outlawing of mileage adjustment companies in the UK.

Positively, the Department for Transport has recently included the issue of mileage fraud in their consultation on ‘Roadworthiness testing for fast tractors and other technical changes to vehicle testing’ – the NFDA has responded.

Mileage fraud is the practice of altering a vehicle’s odometer to show a lower mileage than that actually travelled, thereby increasing the re-sale value of the vehicle. Whilst this is not illegal, the practice of selling a vehicle to someone without notifying them that the odometer has been altered is.

Sue Robinson continued, “Mileage fraud is rapidly growing in incidence due to technology, financial gain and the lack of criminal penalties.

“With more businesses being able to easily offer mileage adjustment services, it becomes increasingly difficult for authorities to monitor the situation.

“The NFDA urges the Government to swiftly enact legislation to criminalise mileage adjustment and, hopefully, put an end to this activity which is not only an economic issue, but also has enormous implications on road safety.”