Quick Answer
If you bought a clocked car that was sold without disclosing the true mileage, you likely have a claim. From a dealer it breaches the Consumer Rights Act, letting you reject it or claim compensation. Selling a clocked car as genuine is fraud, so gather evidence and act quickly.
Clocking and the law
Winding back an odometer isn't itself illegal, but selling a car without disclosing that the mileage is false is fraud under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations. If the mileage was misrepresented, you have grounds to challenge the sale.
Your rights by seller type
From a dealer, a clocked car is 'not as described' under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 — you can reject it for a refund (usually within 30 days) or claim compensation. From a private seller you have fewer rights, but proven misrepresentation still gives you a case.
Steps to take
- Get the MOT mileage record to prove the discrepancy
- Run a history check to document the true mileage trail
- Keep the advert, receipt and any mileage claims in writing
- Write to the seller setting out the claim and remedy you want
- Escalate to trading standards or small claims if refused
Document the true mileage
Pull the full mileage record to evidence clocking — check any reg for its true history.
Document the true mileageFrequently Asked Questions
How do I prove a car was clocked?
The MOT mileage record is the key evidence — it shows the mileage at each test, exposing any reading that dropped or jumped. A history check compiles this into a clear trail.
Can I get a refund for a clocked car?
From a dealer, yes — a clocked car is not as described, so you can usually reject it for a refund or claim compensation. Private sales are harder but misrepresentation still gives you a route.