How kilometres affect your car's market value
After the exact variant, kilometres are one of the biggest reasons two valuations of the same car differ. Here's why, and how they're usually taken into account.
Fewer kilometres, higher value
A car with fewer kilometres is usually worth more than the same car with more. AFCA's definition of market value says it: "Can fluctuate, depending on individual factors such as lower usage and the way in which the vehicle has been looked after."
Which reading counts
The reading that matters is the odometer at the date of loss. If the insurer used a different figure, for example from an old service record, you can give them the correct reading with evidence such as a photo, a recent service invoice or an inspection report.
Adjusting comparable cars
Cars for sale rarely have exactly the same kilometres as yours. A common approach is to compare the average kilometres of the comparable cars with yours, and adjust the average price for the difference at a set rate.
How DisputeX does it
DisputeX compares your car's kilometres with the average of the comparable cars and adjusts at a set rate per 10,000 km. The rate and a worked example are on the How we calculate page.
Questions people ask
Do comparable cars need exactly the same kilometres?
No. Kilometres can differ. The price is adjusted for the difference between the comparable cars' average and your car's kilometres.
What if the insurer used the wrong kilometres?
You can send the insurer the odometer reading at the date of loss with evidence, such as a photo or a recent service record.
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Start your checkDisputeX is a document preparation service and doesn't hold an Australian financial services licence. DisputeX gives general information and a calculation based on the information and listings you provide. It isn't legal or financial advice or an opinion on your claim. We're not your insurer, a law firm or a claims representative, and we don't contact your insurer for you.
