As a car owner, you may have come across situations where you need to reset the mileage on your car. Whether it’s because you’re selling your vehicle or you want to track your car’s maintenance, resetting the mileage can be a useful tool. However, many people are unsure of how to reset the mileage on their car. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to reset the mileage on most vehicles.
Why Would You Need to Reset Mileage on a Car?
There are several reasons why you might need to reset the mileage on your car. One of the most common reasons is if you’re selling your vehicle. If you’ve put a lot of miles on your car, you may not be able to sell it for as much money as you’d like. By resetting the mileage, you can make the car appear to have fewer miles on it, which can increase its value.
Another reason you might need to reset the mileage is if you’re leasing a car. Most car leases have a mileage limit, and if you go over that limit, you’ll be charged extra fees. By resetting the mileage, you can make it appear as though you haven’t driven as many miles as you actually have.
Is It Legal to Reset the Mileage on a Car?
In most cases, it is illegal to reset the mileage on a car. The Federal Odometer Act, which was passed in 1972, makes it illegal to tamper with or alter the mileage of a car’s odometer. If you’re caught resetting the mileage on your car, you could face fines and even jail time.
However, there are some situations where resetting the mileage is legal. For example, if you’re replacing the odometer on your car, you’ll need to reset the mileage to match the new odometer. Additionally, if you’re selling a car that’s more than 10 years old, you’re not required to disclose the mileage to the buyer, so resetting the mileage in this case is legal.
How to Reset Mileage on a Car
The process for resetting the mileage on a car will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, there are some general steps you can follow:
Step 1: Consult Your Owner’s Manual
Before attempting to reset the mileage on your car, you should consult your owner’s manual. The manual will provide you with specific instructions for resetting the mileage on your particular vehicle.
Step 2: Use a Diagnostic Tool
If your car has an electronic odometer, you’ll need to use a diagnostic tool to reset the mileage. You can purchase a diagnostic tool online or at an auto parts store. Once you have the tool, simply plug it into your car’s diagnostic port and follow the instructions to reset the mileage.
Step 3: Disconnect the Battery
If your car has a mechanical odometer, you can reset the mileage by disconnecting the battery. To do this, simply disconnect the negative battery cable, wait a few minutes, and then reconnect the cable. This will reset the mileage on your car.
Step 4: Take Your Car to a Dealer
If you’re unsure of how to reset the mileage on your car, or if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, you can take your car to a dealer. The dealer will be able to reset the mileage for you, but you’ll need to pay for the service.
Conclusion
Resetting the mileage on a car can be a useful tool, but it’s important to do it legally and responsibly. If you’re unsure of how to reset the mileage on your car, consult your owner’s manual or take your car to a dealer. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you’re resetting the mileage on your car safely and legally.