Buying a used car? Experts show how to spot odometer tampering

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Several auto dealers had their licenses revoked after investigators uncovered odometer fraud and other violations. 

Odometer fraud is resetting, disconnecting or changing a car's odometer to conceal the true mileage. According to the Wisconsin Department Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles, it costs customer's millions of dollars every year. 

The state took away licenses for these auto dealers for tampering with odometers and other violations.

1. L and A International Motors 

2. Mex Car Sales

3. Infinity Texas Auto Sales

4. Fast Motor Auto Sales 

The DMV is investigating customer complaints across the state. 

"DMV'S Dealer and Agent Section is committed to combating these activities but it can take several months to investigate and impose sanctions," Dealer and Agent Section Chief Michael Domke.

Before you buy a car, make sure this scam isn't happening to you. Experts recommend checking the history of the car with a reputable company. 

"It used to be done where anyone and their brother could do it or attempt to do it with the numbers that rolled. Nowadays, it takes professional equipment so now it's more of a business," said Roger Lockow, owner of Speedometer Service Co.

Lockow has been repairing odometers for decades. 

He advises people to check the dash to see if it has been tampered with. If the car is an older model, check the numbers to see if it's lined up. If not, it could be an indication someone had it apart. Another thing to look out for is if the mileage is in line with the age of the car. 

"It's really you got to go by your best judgement as far as what an average puts on a car and the car fax that's basically the best way to look at it. Just like I said if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is," said Lockow. 

For more tips on how to spot odometer tampering, click here.