Cartell.ie, the online car history checking company, claims that Irish roads are awash with up to 50,000 clocked vehicles imported from the UK.

Jeff Aherne, Director with Cartell.ie comments, “We’ve been gathering data on UK imports since we set up business in 2006 and according to our most recent statistics at least 18.5% of vehicles imported from the UK are clocked. In real terms that’s approximately 50,000 vehicles.

The clocking rate in the UK is estimated to be 10% and it costs UK motorists £100 million in reduced car values. Cartell.ie is therefore extremely concerned given that the clocking rate for these imports is nearly twice that found in the UK itself. Aherne believes the reason the figures are so high in Ireland could be due to individuals not checking the vehicle before importing it, but it is suspected that some unscrupulous dealers may have imported these vehicles knowing their history.

When a vehicles odometer is interfered with and the mileage reduced, this is known as clocking. Clocking is a major safety concern, as a vehicle with more mileage than indicated may not have had the correct servicing at manufacturers recommended intervals. This leads to increased incidents of mechanical failure resulting in a vehicle having to stop at inopportune locations, for example motorways. In extreme cases it may invoke an accident during timing belt failure at high speeds.

“Not only is this a worrying trend but with the number of UK imports increasing dramatically as Irish consumers benefit from a weak Stirling, the likelihood is that the number of clocked cars will increase as well.” remarked Aherne.

According to the UK National Mileage Register 38% of Audi’s showed a mileage discrepancy; 25% of Volkswagens and 24% of Fords. However, Japanese cars faired better with Lexus showing 19% mileage discrepancy and Toyotas 14%.

“This is yet another case of buyer beware. Much has been written recently about the value of imported cars and while this is true, our advice is to have the cars history checked before you buy. It’s a small price to pay for safety and peace of mind.” concludes Aherne.

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