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The mileage on an MOT history doesn't add up. What now?

Updated 29 Oct 2026

A lower mileage on a later MOT is a reason to ask questions, not proof of fraud. The free MOT history service shows the mileage recorded when the car was tested. A recording error, a replaced odometer or instrument cluster, and deliberate alteration can all result in a reading that does not follow the earlier pattern.

Check the evidence before deciding whether to buy.

Cause 1: a testing station recording error

DVSA says mileage errors can happen when a tester types the wrong number, including accidentally catching another number on the keyboard. A tester might also read the trip meter instead of the total mileage.

In a 2023 post, DVSA said it received over 14,000 requests each year to correct MOT mileage readings. This does not mean every drop is a mistake, but it shows that recording errors are a recognised issue.

A typo may be more likely if the next reading continues the earlier trend. Treat this only as a rule of thumb and look for supporting evidence.

Cause 2: a replaced odometer or instrument cluster

A faulty odometer or instrument cluster may have been replaced during the car’s life. The reading on the replacement unit may then not match the car’s previous MOT history.

Trading Standards guidance says that, for traders, failing to disclose that an odometer was found faulty and replaced may be a misleading omission. Ask for the invoice or other paperwork rather than relying only on a verbal explanation.

Cause 3: deliberate alteration

An odometer can be altered to make a car appear to have travelled fewer miles. This is sometimes called clocking.

Trading Standards guidance says traders must not alter an odometer to mislead, or supply a vehicle with a misleading mileage. The guidance is written for traders.

A mileage drop does not prove deliberate alteration. A steady MOT history does not prove that the mileage is genuine either.

How to check the readings

Start with the car’s MOT history. Note the mileage and date for every test, especially the readings immediately before and after the drop.

Consider:

Ask to see documents that may help explain the change, such as:

These documents may help you assess the explanation. Ask the seller to show the paperwork rather than relying only on what they say.

You can also consider a private vehicle history check. The GOV.UK consumer guide says a history check can show whether a vehicle has a mileage discrepancy. Check exactly what the service includes, because not every level of check includes mileage information.

Citizens Advice says you can use the free DVLA checker to compare the registration, MOT number, make, model and mileage with DVLA records. Its guidance also recommends asking the seller for the mileage and checking it against DVLA records.

For more on the limits of an MOT record, read what an MOT history does not show.

What to ask the seller

Keep your questions direct. For example:

  1. “The later MOT shows fewer miles than the earlier one. What happened?”
  2. “Has the odometer or instrument cluster ever been replaced?”
  3. “What paperwork do you have for that work?”
  4. “Do the service records support the mileage shown today?”
  5. “Can I check the paperwork and arrange a history check before deciding?”

A clear explanation with relevant paperwork may resolve the issue. A vague answer, changing account or refusal to show records leaves the question unanswered.

If you are buying from a trader, ask the trader to confirm the mileage and any known odometer replacement in writing. For a private purchase, you can keep the advert, messages and written statements about the mileage.

Citizens Advice gives a “false mileage reading” as an example of a problem that may give you legal rights. If you have already bought the car and the mileage turns out to be false, contact Citizens Advice.

You can find more checks for a private purchase in our guide to buying a car privately.

How to report a mistake on the MOT record

A seller may tell you that an MOT mileage entry is a mistake. GOV.UK has a service to report a mistake on an MOT record, so ask what evidence they have.

If the MOT was more than 28 days ago, the form covers mileage corrections. The evidence must show:

Examples include an invoice, emissions printout, service receipt, service history or job card. An MOT certificate or a photograph of the dashboard is not accepted for this process.

If the test was completed within the previous 28 calendar days, the testing station may still be able to correct the reading.

GOV.UK says a reply usually takes up to eight weeks, although it may take longer, so an unresolved correction is a reason to wait before buying.

When should you walk away?

Consider walking away if:

You can choose not to buy if the explanation remains uncertain and the evidence is incomplete. If you suspect the seller has given you fake details, Citizens Advice says you should not buy the car. For further help, contact Citizens Advice before committing to the purchase.

Sources

See a car's MOT history

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