How to set VDO odometer mileage

[Aleman]

Hi guys - I just replaced my speedo, and I want to adjust the mileage so it matches the mileage on the old speedo. Does anyone have a write-up for adjusting mileage on a VDO odometer?

I know this subject is taboo, since the info could be used for unscrupulous purposes, but it could be really helpful for someone doing an honest speedo swap.

[audiquattrot]

should be the same writeup for replacing the gears on the odo. when you pull the gears, the counter can be adjusted (rolled back/forward)

[Aleman]

should be the same writeup for replacing the gears on the odo. when you pull the gears, the counter can be adjusted (rolled back/forward)

Hmm. Tried that, but the numbers were locked by a series of black gears that runs along the top edge. I popped that loose, changed the numbers, and popped it back into place. Odo doesn't work now. I think I reassembled it wrong.

I'm going to recheck the gears this weekend.

[ELVA164]

I dunno, mine just spun up or down when I changed the gears. That said, I did it to add the missed mileage because I'm a goody two-shoes :( I do have a Motometer cluster; maybe they don't have those gears you mentioned.

[Das Delfin]

Mine is a VDO and has been clocked back and still works.. actually everything still works. I want to pop it open and adjust the mileage but it might be more trouble than it's worth

[jeffnhiscars]

The plastic odo gears prevent the reset. Take them out and use a fine air nozzle and compressor to spin the number wheels. I don't recall which wheel to spin (I think tenths) and watch the air pressure so you don't over spin it or damage anything.

Once it starts to turn it doesn't take long to commit odo fraud :)

[Aleman]

Good suggestions here! Thanks all!

[Gregs///M]

We reset mileage all the time. My method is simple. Disassemble the whole speedometer assembly, even remove the circuit board, motor, gears, and all plastic.

Then set miles and reassembly.

Seriously, its not easy and takes a lot of practice to get it done quickly. I recommend using tape to hold the numbers into place while you put the plastic toothed gears in place that retain the numbers, the tape will prevent the numbers from floating up or down if that makes sense.

[ST1G]

I made a tutorial for doing it a while back, never was approved by the DIY section moderator.

[dnguyen1963]

I made a tutorial for doing it a while back, never was approved by the DIY section moderator.

Because it is illegal to temper with the odometer. I know a lot of you guys are honest, but it could also affect a lot of uniformed buyers.

[ST1G]

Because it is illegal to temper with the odometer. I know a lot of you guys are honest, but it could also affect a lot of uniformed buyers.

Except in most (if not all) states cars older than 10-15 years are exempt from odometer gear readings.

[jeffnhiscars]

Except in most (if not all) states cars older than 10-15 years are exempt from odometer gear readings.

The law governing the "odometer statement" is federal and cars over 10 years old are exempt. However.....again...HOWEVER...any false representation "intended to mislead" and causing someone to pay more than they might otherwise have, could pose risks. So if you take a 200k car, roll it back to 120k and sell it as such, it's not a violation of federal odometer laws but never the less opens you to a claim of fraud.

Just sayin :)

[dnguyen1963]

The law governing the "odometer statement" is federal and cars over 10 years old are exempt. However.....again...HOWEVER...any false representation "intended to mislead" and causing someone to pay more than they might otherwise have, could pose risks. So if you take a 200k car, roll it back to 120k and sell it as such, it's not a violation of federal odometer laws but never the less opens you to a claim of fraud.

Just sayin :)

Exactly...buyers always ask about the mileage on E30.

[estoguy]

I took my replacement apart and hand rolled. It's a little fiddly but didn't take too long. There is a DIY on E30tech.

[Coupelx]

The law governing the "odometer statement" is federal and cars over 10 years old are exempt. However.....again...HOWEVER...any false representation "intended to mislead" and causing someone to pay more than they might otherwise have, could pose risks. So if you take a 200k car, roll it back to 120k and sell it as such, it's not a violation of federal odometer laws but never the less opens you to a claim of fraud.

Just sayin :)

Not changing mine is fraud. At 160k, its about 100k short.