11:02 am, July 21, 2015
THE risk of clocking fraud could escalate significantly if the MoT period was extended from three years to four, according to vehicle provenance specialists HPI.
The plans to consult on the proposal were announced in the budget – and they prompted an industry backlash concerning the risk to consumer safety, if vehicles are left without an MoT for an extra year from new.
However, HPI sees a hidden threat from clockers, who will take advantage of the extension to turn back the mileage and sell them on to unsuspecting buyers.
Neil Hodson, managing director, said: ‘There are clearly some safety concerns surrounding the idea of extending the MoT period by a further 12 months, but there is also an increased risk of fraud.
‘Whilst it’s fair to assume that older cars are the most likely to have their mileage reading altered, the reality is that around a third of all cars checked by the trade with HPI are found to have a mileage discrepancy within the first three years of their life.
‘Extending the period for a further fourth year would see the number of pre-MoT cars with a suspect mileage increase, putting used car buyers at significant risk.
‘Buying a clocked vehicle poses a real safety threat, not to mention the additional cost of unexpected repairs. We urge used car buyers to conduct an HPI Check to make sure the mileage isn’t going in reverse.
‘The proposed extension on the MoT offers motorists savings on one hand, but it could cost them a lot more if it gives clockers a free ride.’
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