On a 2002 x type, how reliable is the actual mileage that shows on the
display?

Can somebody tamper with the figures at some point ???????


Thanks,
Walter

 

Walter, to change a modern day speedo, you first need a very high end computer. Then you need to get into like 3 different computers to change all of the values to the same number. Only then willl the car accept a new speedo number.

So, is it something that someone can do. With enough will, there is always a way. But, the manufacturer's make it very difficult for the back yard mechanic to change it.

If you are truely worried about it, simply pay for a Carfax on your car. You should see where the mileage will be increasing with each entry (getting titled, major repairs, etc). If your mileage is now less than the last line, then you know the odometer has been messed with.

 

Just curious why you are asking? Seems like you have a concern about the mileage you are seeing on a car.

Like Thermo said, it is not impossible, but highly unlikely with all the resources available today to check out cars, along with how much more difficult it is to alter the mileage.

If your question instead is if the readout itself is accurate (like, does it show a mile when the car actually only went a half a mile), it is very accurate.

 

A 2002 X-Type is not a valuable car so maybe anyone who can tamper with mileage would not bother on it anyway.

 

Thermo! Is it true if you replace the ECM and instrument cluster of same car(A car) to another car (B car) they will work on the B car but show the mileage of the A car? If it does work like that some one might do that to sale the car with low mileage, I know down the line who ever buy it would have problem of difference VIN no.# when inspection.

 

The instrument cluster is a CAN BUS and display. I don't think it has the capability to store any info. That's where the modules come into play.
Let us know if you have any idea Thermo.

 

Keep in mind that the mileage is stored in multiple locations. Where those locations are is kept pretty tight. So, I am not sure exactly where the information is stored. I seem to remember seeing where 3 places was written at some point. So, even if you swapped out the instrument cluster and the ECU, you have only replaced 2 of the 3 locations. This is going to cause errors to pop up. Not to mention that the ECU needs to be programmed to the car itself. This is where I think you are going to find that the car is going to be immobilized until things are straightened out. This is where the PATS module, the ABS module, and who knows what all else would need to be all changed to make the parts of Car B work in Car A and make the Car B data show up.

 

Drive-by poster on this issue...