How To Check Mileage For A Used Ford
Shopping for a used car can be exciting, but it also comes with responsibilities—especially when it comes to verifying a vehicle’s condition and history. One of the most critical factors to look at is mileage. If you’re trying to check mileage for a used Ford, it’s essential to know how to do it properly and what the numbers can tell you about the vehicle’s overall wear, usage, and value.
Below, we’ll walk you through different methods to check mileage accurately, red flags to watch for, and why this step should never be skipped when buying a pre-owned Ford.
Use the Odometer
The first and most straightforward method is checking the odometer reading on the dashboard. Most modern Ford vehicles use digital odometers, making them more difficult to tamper with—but not impossible.
Tips for reading the odometer:
- Turn the ignition to accessory mode to illuminate the display.
- Verify the reading and take note of whether it’s in miles or kilometers.
- On digital screens, be wary of flickering digits or uneven formatting—these could indicate tampering.
Check the Vehicle History Report
To confirm the odometer reading and track how it has changed over time, get a vehicle history report through a service like CARFAX or AutoCheck. These reports pull data from title transfers, inspections, and service visits to log mileage.
Why it matters:
- Sudden drops or inconsistent mileage readings between records may indicate odometer rollback.
- A history report can also reveal if the car was used for fleet, rental, or commercial purposes—uses that may lead to more wear despite lower mileage.
Look at Maintenance and Service Records
Most dealerships and reputable service centers log mileage during regular maintenance visits. If the previous owner has service records, review them to see how mileage progressed.
What to look for:
- Consistent increases in mileage over time.
- Documentation from Ford-certified technicians adds credibility.
- Gaps in records could mean missed services—or attempts to hide mileage.
Use FordPass or Vehicle Telematics
Many newer Ford models are compatible with the FordPass™ app, which can sync vehicle data—including mileage—through the car’s onboard telematics. If the previous owner had FordPass set up, they might be able to show real-time mileage history.
Advantages:
- Mileage tracked directly by Ford’s system.
- More difficult to falsify than manual entries.
- Gives insight into driving behavior and maintenance notifications.
Inspect the Condition vs. Mileage
Sometimes the condition of a used Ford doesn’t match what the odometer says. Excessive wear on the pedals, seats, steering wheel, and door handles could signal more use than claimed.
Be cautious if:
- A car shows 30,000 miles but has worn floor mats and seat fabric.
- The steering wheel or gear shifter is heavily smoothed or faded.
- These mismatches might indicate tampering or heavy use.
Visit Fairway Ford of Canfield for Expert Help
Checking mileage is a vital step in buying a used Ford, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. At Fairway Ford of Canfield, our certified technicians can perform a complete multi-point inspection and help you verify the true condition and history of any pre-owned Ford you’re considering. We make sure our inventory of used vehicles is thoroughly vetted, with transparent records and trustworthy mileage data.
Whether you’re buying your first used car or trading in your current ride, our team is here to ensure you drive away with confidence. We invite you to visit us for expert service, honest guidance, and to browse our wide selection of reliable new and pre-owned Ford vehicles.
Stop by Fairway Ford of Canfield—where integrity and service come standard.
