Cazoo urges lawmakers to create a specific criminal offence for mileage alteration after a survey found 60% of used‑car dealers worried about rising clocking.

Cazoo has asked the UK Government to introduce a specific criminal offence for mileage alteration after a recent survey revealed that 60% of used‑car dealers are seeing an increase in clocking. The move aims to protect buyers and restore confidence in the second‑hand market.

Key takeaways

60% of surveyed used‑car dealers report rising clocking.
Cazoo proposes a new specific criminal offence for mileage alteration.
The proposal targets illegal mileage tampering that harms buyers.
Potential legal change could affect dealer compliance and inventory checks.

Survey highlights dealer concerns about clocking

The questionnaire, distributed to a cross‑section of independent used‑car retailers, asked respondents to rate the prevalence of mileage tampering. Over half indicated they were seeing more instances than in previous years.

Dealers said clocking not only erodes consumer trust but also creates pricing disputes and potential legal exposure. The consensus was that current penalties do not deter repeat offenders.

Cazoo’s call for a specific criminal offence

Cazoo argues that existing legislation treats mileage alteration as a generic fraud offence, which can be difficult to prove and prosecute. A dedicated statute would clarify the crime and streamline convictions.

The company suggests that the offence carry a custodial sentence and fines, providing a clear deterrent. It also recommends mandatory disclosure of verified mileage at the point of sale.

Regulatory response and industry debate

Lawmakers and trade bodies have begun discussing the proposal, weighing its impact on small dealers versus consumer protection. Some caution that added criminal penalties could increase paperwork and costs.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has signalled support for tougher measures, while urging clear guidance to avoid unintended consequences for legitimate mileage corrections.

What this means for dealers

If the offence is enacted, dealers will need to ensure that every vehicle’s mileage is verified through an independent check before listing. Failure to do so could result in criminal prosecution.

The change may also drive greater use of third‑party mileage verification services and encourage tighter internal controls, potentially raising acquisition costs but improving buyer confidence.

Frequently asked questions

Will existing fraud laws cover mileage alteration if the new offence is introduced?

Current fraud legislation can be used to prosecute mileage tampering, but proving intent is often complex. A specific offence would make prosecution more straightforward and carry clearer penalties, reducing reliance on generic fraud provisions.

How should dealers adapt their inventory processes now?

Dealers should start recording the source of mileage data for every vehicle, use recognised verification services, and retain documentation for audit. Introducing routine checks now will ease the transition if new legal requirements are confirmed.

Could the proposed offence affect trade‑in valuations?

Trade‑in values may become more conservative until mileage data can be independently confirmed. Dealers might factor verification costs into offers, and buyers may expect greater transparency, influencing negotiated prices.