TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General Ashley Moody has issued a Consumer Alert to warn Floridians about the increasing threat of odometer fraud. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this type of fraud costs American car buyers over $1 billion annually. The NHTSA reports that more than 450,000 vehicles are sold each year with false odometer readings, and a study from Carfax indicates that cases are on the rise.
“Odometer fraud preys on unsuspecting consumers, eroding trust and leaving financial and safety risks in its wake. It is crucial for Floridians to remain cautious and informed when making vehicle purchases to avoid falling victim to this crime,” stated Attorney General Moody.
Odometer fraud involves the disconnection, resetting, or alteration of a vehicle’s odometer with the intent to reduce the number of miles displayed. Deceptive sellers may roll back mileage readings to make vehicles appear more valuable. Attorney General Moody warns that even newer cars could be targets of such fraudulent activity.
To help Floridians avoid falling victim to odometer fraud, Attorney General Moody offers several tips:
- **Request Vehicle History Reports:** Obtain comprehensive vehicle history reports from reputable sources to verify mileage readings and uncover any discrepancies or inconsistencies.
- **Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly:** Conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle's interior, exterior, and under the hood to identify signs of wear and tear that may contradict the reported mileage.
- **Consult Trusted Professionals:** Seek assistance from qualified mechanics or automotive experts to assess the condition of the vehicle and detect any indications of tampering or fraudulent activity.
- **Exercise Caution:** Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true as they may indicate fraudulent schemes.
Odometer fraud should be reported to local law enforcement or by calling NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.
The Florida Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division issues Consumer Alerts to inform residents about emerging scams, new methods used in committing fraud, increased reports of common scams, or other deceptive practices. These alerts aim to prevent financial losses or harm caused by such activities. Anyone encountering a scam is encouraged to report it by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or visiting MyFloridaLegal.com. For recent Consumer Alerts and additional information on avoiding scams, visit MyFloridaLegal.com/ConsumerAlert.