Some of the comments suggest that odometer readings are not important, and
that one should rely more on the condition of the vehicle. While condition
matters, the odometer reading must be accurately represented, both on the
vehicle odometer and on the title when transferring the vehicle, or
include a statement that the true mileage is unknown due to a stated
reason.  Altering the mileage reading on a motor vehicle is a felony under
federal law and most state laws. Altering the mileage reading on the
title, which is a security instrument under law, is securities fraud. If a
fraudulent title has passed through the mail, it's mail fraud.  Odometer
fraud has been characterized as perhaps the largest consumer fraud in
America, so it follows that odometer readings are, in fact, important.