Odometer Disclosure in a California Private Car Sale
The odometer reading documents how many miles the vehicle has traveled at the moment it changes hands. It is one of the most disputed facts in private vehicle sales, so getting it right protects both buyer and seller.
What is an odometer reading?
The odometer reading is the mileage shown on the vehicle's instrument cluster at the time of sale. Take a clear photo of the dashboard when both parties are together — it's the simplest way to lock in the fact.
Odometer status options
- Actual mileage — the reading reflects true miles traveled.
- Not actual mileage — the odometer was rolled back, swapped or otherwise does not reflect true miles.
- Exceeds mechanical limits — the odometer reached its maximum value (often 99,999) and rolled over.
- Unknown / discrepancy — the reading may not be reliable.
Why both parties should confirm
Buyer and seller should look at the dashboard together and agree on the number written in the bill of sale. A photo signed off at the same time removes ambiguity.
When California may require official forms
The California DMV uses REG 262 (Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment) for odometer disclosure in specific situations: when the title is not available, when there's an error or alteration in the odometer section of the title, when the title does not comply with current standards, or in cases of multiple transfers. REG 262 is not available online — it's typically issued by the DMV or licensed dealers.