Drivers thinking about buying ten popular used models have been urged to thoroughly check for any signs that it has a hidden history.
With sales of used cars falling, many motorists think it is the perfect time to get behind the wheel of a stylish pre-owned model for thousands less than expected.
However, analysis by the vehicle history checking service carVertical found that many popular used cars could be clocked. Matas Buzelis, carVertical’s Head of Communications, warned that getting a history report can help buyers choose a vehicle with confidence.
He advised: “A comprehensive car history report not only reveals when and how the odometer was altered but also shows how many miles were rolled back.
“This transparency allows buyers to better understand the vehicle’s actual wear and tear, ensuring they make informed decisions based on its true value. In an environment where odometer fraud remains a serious concern, these checks are the most effective way to avoid costly mistakes.”
According to carVertical, the Nissan Qashqai was the most clocked car of 2024, with 3.4 percent of all examples checked with the service having a fake mileage.
The Sunderland-built SUV is routinely one of the best-selling new cars in the UK, with many praising its spacious interior and lavish amounts of standard equipment.
The smaller Nissan Juke crossover was also included in the top 10, with 2.2 percent of models checked by potential buyers being sold with a fake mileage.
Another used model that is popular with scammers is the BMW 5 Series, with carVertical’s study finding that 3.3 percent of used models checked in 2024 had been clocked.
The German brand’s range of executive saloons and estates has been around for more than 50 years, with many buyers happy to pay premium for a seemingly genuine low-mileage example.
The BMW’s closest rival, the Audi A6, was also commonly clocked during 2025, with 2.9 percent of examples checked with carVertical having a hidden history.
