Buyers of used cars in New South Wales are being urged to check vehicle histories after NSW Fair Trading issued 28 fines in just one month as part of a crackdown on odometer fraud. The operation targeted dodgy sellers manipulating odometer readings to inflate vehicle prices, with fines totaling more than $100,000.

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Widespread Fraud Uncovered

During the operation, 54 penalty notices were issued for offences ranging from odometer tampering to unlicensed motor dealing and failure to supply goods and services.

Among those caught, Andrew Rodney Leech pleaded guilty to operating without a motor dealer’s licence and odometer tampering. Investigations revealed that between 2020 and 2022, Leech sold 16 unlicensed vehicles, including one car where the odometer had been wound back by over 200,000 kilometres.

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Consumer Warning: How to Protect Yourself

NSW Fair Trading is warning buyers to take precautions before purchasing a used car to avoid falling victim to fraud. Key steps include:

  • Checking the vehicle’s history – Ensure there are no outstanding loans or past write-offs.
  • Verifying odometer readings – The NSW Government offers a free vehicle registration check, providing access to the last three annual odometer readings.
  • Confirming seller legitimacy – Avoid purchasing from unlicensed dealers operating online via platforms like Facebook Marketplace without proper accreditation.

Industry Crackdown and Penalties

The crackdown is part of broader enforcement efforts targeting misconduct in the used car industry. In 2024 alone, NSW Fair Trading took action against 21 licensed dealers and repairers, resulting in:

  • 10 licence cancellations
  • 13 disqualifications (including 3 permanent bans)
  • 1 suspension

Odometer tampering carries severe penalties, with fines of $1,100 per offence. If taken to court, sellers could face penalties of up to $55,000 per offence.

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Government Advice for Used Car Buyers

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong has urged buyers to stay vigilant and utilise government resources to verify a vehicle’s history.

“Unscrupulous sellers use odometer tampering to increase vehicle value, leaving buyers with unexpected repair costs,” Mr. Chanthivong said. “Whether purchasing online or through a licensed dealer, always check the Service NSW website for a free history report before making a purchase.”

For more details on consumer protections, visit the NSW Fair Trading website or check a vehicle’s registration through Service NSW.

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