Consumers warned of 'clocked' cars

Buyers of second-hand cars have been warned that car clocking is a "widespread problem" in Ireland.

The National Consumer Agency said today the practice, where the car's odometer is changed to give a reduced mileage, was increasingly common particularly with imported cars.

Launching the NCA's A Guide to Buying a CarActing Chief Executive Ann Fitzgerald said: "While most car dealers are completely reputable, there are some rogue operators out there.

"Any consumer purchasing a car should be armed with the information in this guide and know how to avoid being sold a lemon."

She said that the NCA takes the issue of car clocking seriously and conducts unannounced visits on car dealers.

"Our aim is to continue to stamp out such practices through raising the awareness of consumers and empowering them to identify these practices. We will also continue to work with the industry and prosecute offences where we find them," she added.

She said that few people were aware that private car sales are not covered by consumer legislation, do not include a guarantee and consumers cannot bring another consumer to the Small Claims Court if something does go wrong.

There is no obligation on a private seller to offer any information freely, she warned.

The NCA booklet provides a step-by-step guide to consumers buying a second-hand car from either a private individual or a car dealer. It advises consumers to ask the following questions of sellers:

• Has the car ever been crashed?
• Has any bodywork been done to the vehicle (by you or by others)?
• Has any major mechanical work been done on the vehicle (by you or by others)?
• What is the correct mileage for this vehicle?
• How many previous owners has the vehicle had?
• Is there any outstanding finance on the vehicle?
• When was the last full service carried out on the vehicle?
• Has the car been imported and if so, have all relevant charges been paid (VAT, VRT etc)?

Questions should also be asked when buying from a trader such as:

• Are you a member of any trade association?
• How long is the guarantee period on the vehicle?
• What does the guarantee cover? (parts, labour, etc)
• Can you arrange finance for this vehicle?
• If so, please list your Credit Intermediary Authorisation number