Exempt Mileage Titles: What You Need to Know

Do you see "Exempt" on a car title? It means the odometer reading doesn't need to be shown. This is important when buying a used car.

An exempt mileage title is common. It doesn't always mean there's a problem. It means the law no longer requires mileage disclosure.

Federal law once required mileage disclosure. This was to protect buyers. It aimed to prevent odometer fraud. Odometer fraud is when someone rolls back the miles on a car.

The law has changed over time. Certain vehicles are now exempt from these rules. This impacts what's shown on the car's title.

Two main reasons lead to exempt mileage titles. These are based on the vehicle's age or the model year. Vehicles that meet these criteria don't need odometer disclosures.

Vehicles 20 years old or older are exempt. Also, vehicles from the model year 2010 or earlier are exempt. This is due to changes in federal regulations.

The first key factor is the vehicle's age. If a car is 20 years old or more, it's exempt. This means the current mileage doesn't need to be on the title.

This exemption exists because older cars often change hands. Mileage records may be less reliable. The government decided to ease the disclosure rules.

The model year is another factor for exemption. Cars with a model year of 2010 or earlier are exempt. The rules are about the car's manufacture date.

This model year rule mirrors the age-based one. It recognizes the challenges of tracking older vehicle mileages. The older the vehicle, the less strict the rules.

An exempt title does not automatically mean a bad car. It simply means the mileage isn't disclosed. You still need to check other important factors.

Focus on the car's overall condition. Look at its maintenance history. These details are key to assessing the car's true value. Don't let an exempt title scare you.

An exempt title still calls for due diligence. Review the vehicle's condition carefully. Ask for a vehicle history report. A report helps with informed decisions.

Check for signs of wear and tear. See if the maintenance records are available. These steps provide more details beyond the mileage. Look for accident history, too.

Vehicle history reports are very useful. They provide valuable data about a car's past. Use these reports to help make a smart buying choice.

These reports include accident details and title history. They may provide the car's mileage. Use a VIN lookup tool like AutoVinLookup. You can also use a VIN check from Carfax for a comprehensive report.

A good vehicle history report has key details. Look for accidents, title issues, and odometer readings. Verify the car's past to avoid problems.

Pay close attention to any reported accidents. Check the title for issues like salvage. Verify mileage when it’s available to make sure it's reasonable.

There are pluses and minuses when buying exempt title cars. You must weigh the advantages and disadvantages. This ensures you make the best decision.

Older vehicles can be cheaper. But they may need more repairs. Weigh the risks against potential savings. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Buying a car with an exempt title has upsides. You could get a better deal. Also, you can often find classic or vintage cars.

The lower price may be appealing. Older cars are sometimes more straightforward. They often lack complicated electronics.

There are also downsides to consider. Odometer fraud can be a worry. Maintenance records might be missing or incomplete.

Older cars may need more repairs. Parts can be hard to find. Be sure to inspect the car carefully.

Be aware of potential red flags when buying. Look for signs of tampering or fraud. Trust your instincts when something feels off.

Inspect the car thoroughly. Check the interior for wear and tear. Ask the seller lots of questions. If in doubt, walk away.

Use a VIN lookup to gather more information. A VIN decoder can reveal the car's history. It can help you make a confident choice. Check out a VIN decoder here.

The VIN is the Vehicle Identification Number. It is a unique code for your car. Use a VIN lookup to uncover a car’s past. You can learn about accidents or mileage discrepancies.

Always take the car for a test drive. This lets you assess how it feels. Pay attention to the car's performance and the way it runs.

Check the brakes, steering, and suspension. Listen for unusual noises. Ask a mechanic for a check-up before you buy.

If the odometer reading seems wrong, be cautious. It could be a sign of fraud or tampering. Always investigate any concerns.

Compare the mileage to the car's condition. If it seems too low, be wary. A vehicle history report can help spot inconsistencies.

If the odometer doesn’t match the title, it’s a big red flag. This mismatch requires serious investigation. It could point to fraud.

It's critical to verify the car's history. Use a VIN lookup tool to get details. If the numbers don’t line up, proceed with caution.

An exempt title can affect the car's resale value. Potential buyers may be wary of an older car. Be realistic about its future worth.

Disclose the exempt status to potential buyers. Be honest about any known issues. This helps create trust and maintain a fair value.

Here's a quick comparison to help you understand the main differences:

Here are some common questions and answers:

What does "exempt" mean on a car title?
It means the vehicle isn't required to have its mileage disclosed. This is often due to the car's age.

Is an exempt mileage title a problem?
Not necessarily. It just means the mileage isn't listed. Focus on the car's condition and history.

How old must a car be to have an exempt title?
The car must be at least 20 years old, or the model year must be 2010 or older.

Should I buy a car with an exempt title?
Yes, but do your research. Check the car's condition and history. Use a VIN lookup before you buy.

Where can I check vehicle history?
You can check vehicle history through services like AutoVinLookup. These sites provide valuable information.

Are there any risks with exempt titles?
There’s a slight risk of odometer fraud. Always inspect the car carefully. A thorough check is key.

Buying a car with an exempt mileage title requires care. Understand what it means. Do your research before you buy. Be smart about your purchase.

Always check the car’s history. Look at its condition. Use a VIN lookup and consider a test drive. With the right approach, you can find a good car.