HPI has warned that the proposed changes to the MoT would see the risk of fraud from clockers escalate. The Government said in the Summer Budget is is to consult on whether to extend the time before a car needs its first MOT test from three years to four.
Neil Hodson, managing director for HPI, 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, increasing putting dealers and used car buyers at significant risk.
“The danger for the dealer is that they unwittingly part exchange a clocked car, leaving them at risk of Trading Standards and legal repercussions, not to mention the damage to their reputation.”
“A mileage check is a vital tool for dealers looking to operate best practice,” he said.
