How To Check Mileage For A Used RAM Truck

When buying a pre-owned vehicle, one of the first things to verify is its mileage. High mileage can indicate significant wear and tear, while low mileage might suggest that the truck hasn’t been driven frequently enough to maintain optimal performance. Understanding how to check mileage for used RAM trucks can help you avoid potential pitfalls and make an informed decision before purchasing. Below are some effective ways to check and verify the mileage of a used RAM truck.

Examine the Odometer Reading

The easiest way to check the mileage for a used RAM truck is to look at the odometer reading on the dashboard. Start the truck and observe the odometer display for any inconsistencies. Modern RAM trucks have digital odometers, making them more reliable and less susceptible to tampering compared to older mechanical ones. If the display looks dim or unreadable, it might indicate an electrical issue, which could affect the accuracy of the reading.

Use the Vehicle History Report

A vehicle history report is an excellent tool to verify the accuracy of the mileage on a used RAM truck. Websites like Carfax or AutoCheck offer detailed reports that include recorded mileage at various points during the truck’s life, such as registration renewals, inspections, or service visits. Request the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the seller and purchase a report to ensure the mileage aligns with the truck’s reported history. Any discrepancies could be a red flag that the odometer has been tampered with.

Check for Wear and Tear

The overall condition of the truck can offer clues about its mileage. Look for signs of wear and tear on high-contact areas like the steering wheel, seats, and pedals. For example, if a RAM truck shows only 30,000 miles on the odometer but has heavily worn seats and faded buttons, it might indicate that the actual mileage is much higher. Similarly, inspect the tires—if they show significant tread wear and the mileage is supposedly low, the vehicle could have more miles than what’s displayed.

Inspect Maintenance Records

Ask the seller for any available maintenance records. Regular maintenance is a good indicator of the truck’s overall health and can also help you track the mileage over time. Compare the dates and mileage in these records with the current odometer reading to ensure everything matches up. Consistent maintenance at appropriate intervals helps verify that the mileage hasn’t been rolled back or misreported.

Use an OBD-II Scanner

If you want to delve deeper into the truck’s history, using an OBD-II scanner can reveal more information than just the odometer reading. This tool connects to your RAM truck’s onboard diagnostics system and can show the total number of miles driven according to the computer’s records. If the reading from the OBD-II scanner doesn’t match the odometer, it’s a strong indication of odometer tampering or other issues.

Have a Professional Inspect the Truck

If you’re still uncertain about the mileage after performing these checks, consider bringing the used RAM truck to our dealership for a comprehensive inspection. Our team of professionals can verify the mileage and thoroughly evaluate the vehicle’s condition to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Visit us today for a detailed assessment and reliable advice before making your purchase!