Dealers pass car clocking probe

An investigation into "car clocking" in Worcestershire gave second-hand dealers a clean bill of health.

Trading standards officers visited 19 secondhand dealerships in the county including the Wyre Forest.

They examined 146 vehicles to verify whether the mileage displayed was genuine.

Only one vehicle, a Vauxhall Frontera, had a conflicting reading showing 107,600 miles compared to the 113,000 listed on the National Mileage Register in 2002. Inquiries are being made into its history through previous keepers.

During the investigation mileages were verified at each of the premises by looking at service histories and other documents such as MOT certificates.

The investigation did find that although nearly all claims on forecourts were correct, a number of inaccuracies occurred on traders' websites, such as cars not having electric windows, power steering and service histories.

Traders were told to rectify all mis-descriptions.

Trading standards spokesman Ian Bell said: "The results of this survey are very pleasing. Car clocking is a serious offence that carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison.

"We are here to see that consumers are not deceived and ensure legitimate businesses can compete fairly.

"Residents are also advised to ring up and check details listed on the internet or in adverts prior to going to view the vehicle to ensure all descriptions are correct."

Anyone wanting to report a suspicious vehicle or trader can call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.