Motorists have been warned about rogue traders tampering with vehicle mileage to push up sale prices.
A UAE car service centre has shown how easy it can be to dial back an odometer, prompting experts to raise the alarm with would-be customers looking for a bargain.
A popular social media video from Berlin Auto Service Centre in Al Ain shows how the meter reading of a Mercedes was cut from 114,000 kilometres to 38,000km.
Check RTA records to see if the car has suddenly lost miles between registrations, in particular if the mileage is low compared to the wear and tear of the car
Christopher Milbourne,
Dubizzle
In a recent incident, a buyer from Abu Dhabi found out that the Dh115,000 four-wheel drive she acquired second hand had done 300,000km, not the 65,000km advertised.
She took legal action against the seller, and a court ruled that the contract could be torn up and a full refund rewarded.
It was a victory for consumer rights, but a legal expert says buyers need to act fast to ensure justice is done.
“The UAE’s Civil Transactions Law protects the customers from cheating,” Mohammed Najeeb told The National.
“If the car buyer discovered a hidden flaw in the car like odometer rollback, then he has the right to file a case within six months of purchase.
“Car buyers have the right to cancel the contract and get a refund.
“Rollback is a type of cheating by the seller to cover flaws. The buyer should have a proof of odometer rollback presented to court, like a certificate from the car’s manufacturer.”
Article 555 of the law states that, if the buyer provides a guarantee of more than six months, the seller can still file a case.
Drivers urged to be vigilant
Ali Hassan, from second-hand car dealer Souq Al Haraj in Sharjah, said mileage greatly affects a vehicle's value and can help to indicate how long it will be roadworthy.
“As most cars have digital odometers, it can be rolled back by removing the vehicle’s circuit board to change the reading or using rollback equipment that hooks right into the electronics,” Mr Hassan said.
He advised buyers to conduct extensive checks, including service history, before agreeing to buy.
“There is a full check-up for the car at verified centres in the UAE. I always ask my clients to take the car for a test before buying it from my shop. Buying a car with hidden flaws means paying more than the vehicle is worth,” he said.
Dubizzle, the online classified ads website, advises prospective buyers to take steps to protect themselves from fraud.
“Check the Roads and Transport Authority records to see if the car has suddenly lost miles between registrations, in particular if the mileage is low compared to the wear and tear of the car, like the interior and steering wheel,” said Christopher Milbourne of Dubizzle.
“To avoid fraudulent behaviour, we recommend always opting for a pre-inspection report.
“At the Dubizzle cars hub in Al Quoz, we offer a highly detailed inspection service by our experts which provides you with a full report highlighting issues for complete transparency and peace of mind.”
Tips to avoid being caught out
- Buy a used car from a reliable source;
- Have the car independently inspected by an accredited garage;
- Ask for a detailed service history as the odometer readings will be registered at the service time;
- Check brake and gas pedals for wear and tear, as excessive wear on the pedals is an indication the mileage may be greater than displayed.
How to keep your car safe in the UAE heat - in pictures
ELIO
Starring: Yonas Kibreab, Zoe Saldana, Brad Garrett
Directors: Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, Adrian Molina
Rating: 4/5
5 of the most-popular Airbnb locations in Dubai
Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:
• Dubai Marina
The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104
• Downtown
Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure. “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154
• City Walk
The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena. “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941
• Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152
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Who's who in Yemen conflict
Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government
Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council
Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south
Habrish 'rebels': Tribal-backed forces feuding with STC over control of oil in government territory
The specs: 2018 Audi RS5
Price, base: Dh359,200
Engine: 2.9L twin-turbo V6
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Power: 450hp at 5,700rpm
Torque: 600Nm at 1,900rpm
Fuel economy, combined: 8.7L / 100km
The Ashes
Results
First Test, Brisbane: Australia won by 10 wickets
Second Test, Adelaide: Australia won by 120 runs
Third Test, Perth: Australia won by an innings and 41 runs
Fourth Test: Melbourne: Drawn
Fifth Test: Australia won by an innings and 123 runs
