Mileage - Odometer Readings - Ford F450

[X-Roughneck]

I sent this out as a PM to a few on the forum.  Without getting too specific is it possible that a newer RV (2016-2019 year model) with a V10 Ford F450 as the prime mover of the rig could have had the odometer disconnected to show lower mileage than what is actually showing on the odometer?  If the odometer was disconnected is there anyway this could be determined by pulling data from onboard computer?

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

No worries. The odometer cable cannot be simply disconnected from the counter as in olden days - the engine computer is literally counting the turns of the wheels and computing the miles.  If the ignition is on, the ECU is counting miles.  Anti-tampering software prevents even a dealer shop from simply reprogramming the ECU to alter the mileage. In short, it is extremely unlikely that anything liek that was done.

 

[rbrdriver]

Just curious, could the ECU be replaced, therefore starting over?

 

[X-Roughneck]

I talked to the seller again today for teh 3rd time.  He seemed legit on our two conversations prior, and today he explained without hesitation that he owns a double wide down in Florida that he and his wife go do during the winter to escape the cold.  He also said it was much cheaper to register the RV in FL as opposed to his home state up north.  We are going forward with the purchase and will have a full systems checks, crawl up under and scrutinize the exterior and engine compartment.

I am also go to run the VIN.  I am not sure of the cost but seems worth it.  I am guessing this is like Car Fax for RVs?

https://www.rvchecks.com/index.php

Does anyone out there run the VINs on RVs they are going to buy?

I had also PM-d a few of "The Gurus" of the board, and I appreciate their $0.02.

 

[Alfa38User]

Don't know about RVchecks but Car facts type info on an RV will not reveal much interesting info as RV dealers and servicing outfits rarely use those types of service. The most you will likely get would be state registration info and possibly tickets.

When replacing an ECU, reputable dealers also replace the mileage info, I think they are obliged to do so by law.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

When replacing an ECU, reputable dealers also replace the mileage info, I think they are obliged to do so by law.

They are indeed, but anyone altering the mileage on a vehicle is already violating both state & federal laws and obviously not reputable.

 

[skydivemark]

States that do smog checks log the checks along with mileage and can be tracked by websites like Carfax. But since it's registered in FL the smog (emission) checks are probably not being done.