Options When a Used BMW Car's Title Shows Odometer Tampering

Buying a used car from a dealership, like BMW, can sometimes lead to unexpected issues. Recently, a customer received their car title and noticed that the odometer may have been tampered with and saw that the title was marked "brand". This is a serious matter that needs to be addressed immediately. Although the dealer’s reputation and potential fraud should be considered, there are various steps you can take to resolve the issue.

Understanding the Issue

Before delving into the options available, it is important to understand the implications of an odometer having been tampered with. An odometer rollback can significantly reduce the actual mileage of a vehicle, making it potentially more valuable than its true condition suggests. If the title is marked as "brand," it indicates that the vehicle may have suffered significant damage and has been repaired, which can affect the car's overall value.

Steps to Take

To address this issue, you should take the following steps:

1. Review the Paperwork

It is crucial to carefully review all the paperwork you received when you purchased the car. Look for any mentions of an odometer rollback or an indication that the car is a "title brand." The ownership transfer document (bill of sale) and the odometer disclosure are especially important.

Remember, the dealer is required to disclose this information at the time of purchase. If you missed this during the purchase, make it a priority to review it now.

2. Contact the Dealership

The first step should be to contact the dealership and present your findings. Ask them to reverse the transaction and refund your money, including taxes and DMV fees. The dealer may not have been aware of the tampering, especially if the title was 'washed' or transferred through another state.

Historically, dealerships have been cooperative in such situations to avoid reputational damage. In a case I was involved with, a car had a clean Carfax report, but had been reconstructed and the title 'washed.' The customer brought it back, and we helped them by buying the car back, reimbursing insurance payments, and selling them another car at cost.

3. Seek Legal Advice

If the dealership is uncooperative or if you suspect fraudulent practices, consider seeking legal assistance. A lawyer can help you build a case and take further action to recover your losses.

One of the first actions you should take is to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and report the suspected tampering.

4. Contact the DMV

It is essential to inform the DMV of the suspected odometer tampering. Although the likelihood of a dealership engaging in this practice is low due to the potential consequences, it is still a necessary step to ensure the vehicle's history is accurate.

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles

For those in Virginia, you can contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to report your suspicions. Here is the contact information:

Website: https://dmv.volleystate.gov/ Phone: (804) 367-Help (4357) Email: Address: P.O. Box 1760, Richmond, VA 23218

Documentation and Evidence

When dealing with an odometer tampering issue, it is crucial to gather as much documentation and evidence as possible. Collect:

A copy of the Carfax report. A copy of the bill of sale or ownership transfer document. The mileage measurement form (affidavit) that was provided at the time of purchase. Photographs or video evidence showing the odometer or any signs of tampering.

These documents will help you build a strong case and provide evidence to any legal action you decide to take.

Conclusion

When you encounter an issue like odometer tampering or a "title brand" mark on a used BMW car, it is imperative to take immediate action. Review the paperwork, contact the dealership, and if necessary, seek legal advice and report the issue to the DMV. By following these steps, you can protect your rights and ensure you are treated fairly in the transaction.