Individuals or fleet managers purchasing second hand vehicles have been urged to be aware of the dangerous tactic of clocking by some unscrupulous sellers.

Vehicle information company HPI has highlighted the risks associated with clocked vehicles, as they may have done considerably more miles than the seller would like buyers to realise.

Nicola Johnson, consumer services manager for HPI, explained: "If vital components are excessively worn and/or not replaced as recommended by the manufacturer, that vehicle could be a real danger to the driver and other road users."

She added that general signs that a car may have been clocked include excessive wear and tear for the amount of mileage shown, while Ms Johnson warned the costs associated with bringing significantly older vehicles up to standard for buyers could run into the thousands of pounds.

The news follows the recent publication of data from CAP, which showed the UK's used car market underwent a surge in buying appetite in January, with a lack of new stock bolstering prices.

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Posted by Louise Carr, Account Manager, The Fuelcard People.