Title: Understanding the NC DMV Odometer Statement: Types and Description Introduction: The North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (NC DMV) requires individuals involved in vehicle transactions to provide accurate information about the vehicle's mileage through an Odometer Statement. This document plays a crucial role in preventing odometer fraud and ensuring transparency in the sale or transfer of motor vehicles. This article will delve into the details of the NC DMV Odometer Statement, its purpose, and different types available. 1. Basic Definition: The NC DMV Odometer Statement is a legal document used to disclose the current mileage of a vehicle during a sale, transfer of ownership, or any other relevant transaction. It contains essential information about the vehicle's odometer reading and serves as a protective measure to safeguard buyers against deceitful practices. 2. Purpose of the NC DMV Odometer Statement: The primary purpose of the NC DMV Odometer Statement is to prevent odometer fraud, which involves the deliberate alteration, resetting, or misrepresentation of a vehicle's mileage. This document empowers buyers to make informed decisions by providing accurate mileage information, reducing the risk of purchasing a misrepresented or faulty vehicle. 3. Types of NC DMV Odometer Statements: a. Odometer Disclosure Statement (ODS): The Odometer Disclosure Statement is the most common type and is used in most vehicle sale or transfer scenarios. It is mandatory for both sellers and buyers to complete this statement accurately. Sellers are required to provide the mileage read directly from the vehicle's odometer, while buyers must acknowledge the accuracy of the disclosed mileage. b. Odometer Disclosure Statement for Insurance purposes (OSI): The Odometer Disclosure Statement for Insurance purposes is used by insurance companies in specific situations. It is primarily required when a vehicle has been declared a total loss due to damage or theft. Insurance companies may need this statement to determine the fair value of the vehicle based on its recorded mileage. c. Odometer Disclosure Statement for Trailers (DST): This specific type of Odometer Disclosure Statement is used solely for trailers. It ensures that accurate mileage information is disclosed during the sale or transfer of trailers, just as it does for other motor vehicles. 4. Completing the NC DMV Odometer Statement: To correctly fill out a NC DMV Odometer Statement, both sellers and buyers must ensure accurate completion. Sellers must provide the current odometer reading, mileage, or tick marks directly from the vehicle's odometer and sign the statement. Buyers should verify the disclosed mileage and affix their signature, acknowledging the accuracy of the information provided. Conclusion: The NC DMV Odometer Statement is a crucial document designed to combat odometer fraud and protect buyers during vehicle transactions. By understanding the different types and accurately completing the appropriate statement, individuals can ensure transparency and make sound decisions when buying or transferring ownership of a motor vehicle in North Carolina.