Odometers

Odometer Certification
Chapter 625 ILCS 5/3-112.1

The law requires a written mileage disclosure statement for all vehicles, except vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 16,000 pounds or more, vehicles 10 years old or older and vehicles manufactured without an odometer.

The seller must provide the purchaser with a written statement of the registered mileage.

The statement must be completed prior to the sale and include:

• Odometer reading at the time of the sale/transfer
• Date of the sale/transfer
• Seller’s name, address and signature
• Complete vehicle description
• Vehicle identification number (VIN)
• Purchaser’s name, address and signature

Purchasing from a Dealer

An Illinois licensed vehicle dealer must provide the following:

• Bill of sale
• Odometer statement
• Copy of Illinois Tax Form

Purchasing from a Non-Dealer

Everything that applies to a licensed used vehicle dealer also applies to a private seller, except for providing a bill of sale and an Illinois Tax Form.

Inspect the Vehicle

• Odometer — make sure it progresses properly.
• Check the brakes, steering, alignment and acceleration.
• Inspect the tires. Low-mileage vehicles typically have the original tires.
• Check batteries, hoses, clamps and belts.
• Look for excessive interior wear: seats, floor mats and brake pedal.

Used Car Buying Tips

• Have a qualified mechanic examine the vehicle. This may help avoid unexpected repair costs.
• Never sign blank documents. An unscrupulous dealer may complete the document to his benefit only.
• Review the title — The vehicle’s current mileage should be greater than the mileage shown on the title.

Alterations or eraser marks invalidate the title. NEVER purchase a vehicle with an altered title. If the dealer does not have the title, do not purchase the vehicle until a title is provided.

What You Should Know

• Make sure the seller’s identification matches the name on the title.
• Check the meeting location to be sure it is a permanent location, not a temporary meeting place.
• Verify the telephone number of the seller. Unlisted numbers or pager numbers are difficult to trace should problems arise with the vehicle.
• Determine the reason the vehicle is being sold: family financial hardship, fast cash, and mechanical problems.
• Verify that the issue date on the title coincides with the seller’s reason for disposing of the vehicle.
• Pay attention to the seller’s story. Inconsistencies often indicate illegal sales.
• Compare the vehicle to a similar model from another seller.

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