Interpretation ID: aiam1348
43 Columbine Lane
Kings Park
NY 11754;
Dear Mr. Klein: Your letter of December 3, 1973, indicates that the National Highwa Traffic Safety Administration Region II office referred you to this office for an explanation of your rights under the Federal odometer disclosure requirements.; After January 18, 1973, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Saving Act prohibited alteration, resetting, or disconnection of a vehicle odometer with the intent to defraud a purchaser. After March 1, 1973, regulations under the Act require each seller to make a signed, written disclosure of a vehicle's recorded mileage to his purchaser. If he knows the odometer reading is inaccurate, he must also state that the actual mileage is unknown. This statement must be made before the vehicle is sold.; If these regulations were violated in your particular case, as Troope Moran's investigation may indicate, a civil remedy is available to you under S 409 of the Act for $1,500 or treble damages, whichever is greater. To obtain your remedy, S 409 provides that you may bring a private civil action in State or Federal court.; You may wish to consult an attorney about the possibility of bringin an action in your case. I am enclosing the relevant portion of the Act and the odometer regulation for your information.; Sincerely, Lawrence R. Schneider, Chief Counsel