Government targets clocking with tougher action against used car dealers

The UK Government is proposing tougher action against used car dealers that manipulate vehicle mileages, making it easier for enforcement authorities to crack down on car clocking.

Under plans announced on 19 October, car clocking will be added to the list of banned practices under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024. It applies to businesses selling cars to fleets and consumers. 

The move aims to strengthen buyer protection by making it easier to take action against businesses that wind back odometers to disguise a vehicle’s true mileage when selling to consumers.

Although fraudulently selling a clocked car is already illegal, the Government said explicitly listing the practice among banned activities would help enforcement authorities tackle the scam more effectively.

The proposals are intended to protect purchasers from being misled about a vehicle’s history and value, while supporting legitimate motor retailers operating within the law.

The announcement forms part of a wider Government initiative targeting other issues. Ministers also unveiled changes to private parking rules, including longer grace periods and reduced charges for genuine mistakes.

Click here to read all news from FleetWise

Similar Stories

Back to blog