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The Odometer Statement for Illinois is an essential document in the process of transferring vehicle ownership. This form is required by both federal and state laws to ensure accurate reporting of a vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. It serves to protect both the seller and the buyer from potential disputes regarding the vehicle's condition and value. The form includes sections where the seller must certify the current odometer reading, affirming that it reflects the true mileage unless specific conditions apply, such as the mileage exceeding mechanical limits or discrepancies in the reading. Additionally, the document requires the seller's and buyer's signatures, along with their printed names and addresses, providing a clear record of the transaction. Completing this form accurately is crucial, as failing to do so may lead to legal consequences, including fines or imprisonment. By understanding the components of the Odometer Statement, individuals can navigate the vehicle transfer process with greater confidence and clarity.

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Secretary of State

 

Odometer Disclosure Statement for Title Transfers

Secretary of State

 

Vehicle Services Department

Federal and state laws require that you state the mileage

501 S. Second St., Rm. 014

in a transfer of ownership. Failure to complete or

Springfield, IL 62756

providing a false statement may result in fines and/or

 

imprisonment.

www.cyberdriveillinois.com

 

This space for use by

Secretary of State

I, _________________________________________________ , certify to the best of my knowledge that the odometer

Seller’s name (type or print)

reading now reads ________________________ (no tenths) miles and reflects the actual mileage of the vehicle described

below, unless one of the following statements is checked:

The mileage stated is in excess of its mechanical limits.

The odometer reading is not the actual mileage. Warning odometer discrepancy.

Year _______________ Make _____________________ Body Type_________________ Model ____________________

Vehicle Identification Number __________________________________________________________________________

Seller’s Signature ____________________________________________________________________________________

Seller’s Printed Name_________________________________________________________________________________

Seller’s Address _____________________________________________________________________________________

Street

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, ZIP

Seller’s Certification Date _____________________________________________________________________________

To be completed by the buyer

Buyer’s Signature ____________________________________________________________________________________

Buyer’s Printed Name ________________________________________________________________________________

Buyer’s Address _____________________________________________________________________________________

Street

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, ZIP

Buyer’s Acknowledgement Date _________________________________________________________________________

Printed on recycled paper. Printed by authority of the State of Illinois. June 2014 — 45M — VSD 333.3

Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Purpose The Odometer Disclosure Statement is required during the transfer of vehicle ownership to disclose the vehicle's mileage accurately.
Governing Laws This form is governed by both federal and Illinois state laws, which mandate accurate mileage reporting during title transfers.
Consequences of False Information Providing false information on this form can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment.
Seller's Responsibility The seller must certify the accuracy of the odometer reading and indicate if the mileage is not actual or exceeds mechanical limits.
Completion Requirement Both the seller and buyer must complete their respective sections of the form, including signatures and addresses, to validate the transaction.

Odometer Statement For Illinois: Usage Guidelines

After you complete the Odometer Statement for Illinois, you'll need to submit it as part of the vehicle title transfer process. This ensures that both the seller and buyer have a clear record of the vehicle's mileage. Here’s how to fill out the form step-by-step.

  1. Begin by entering the seller's name in the designated space. Make sure to type or print clearly.
  2. Next, write the current odometer reading in the space provided. Only include whole miles, without tenths.
  3. Check one of the boxes if applicable:
    • If the mileage exceeds the mechanical limits of the vehicle.
    • If the odometer reading does not reflect the actual mileage.
  4. Fill in the year, make, body type, and model of the vehicle.
  5. Provide the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the specified area.
  6. The seller must sign and print their name in the appropriate spaces.
  7. Enter the seller's address, including street, city, state, and ZIP code.
  8. Include the date of the seller's certification.
  9. The buyer will then need to sign and print their name in the designated areas.
  10. Next, the buyer should provide their address, including street, city, state, and ZIP code.
  11. Finally, the buyer must enter the date of their acknowledgment.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the purpose of the Odometer Statement for Illinois?

The Odometer Statement is a legal document required in Illinois when transferring ownership of a vehicle. It certifies the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. This statement helps protect both the seller and buyer by ensuring accurate reporting of the vehicle's mileage, which is crucial for assessing its value and condition.

What happens if I provide false information on the Odometer Statement?

Providing false information on the Odometer Statement can lead to serious consequences. Both federal and state laws impose penalties for misrepresentation, which may include fines and possible imprisonment. It is important to ensure that the information you provide is accurate to avoid legal issues.

Who is responsible for completing the Odometer Statement?

The seller of the vehicle is primarily responsible for completing the Odometer Statement. The seller must provide their name, the vehicle's mileage, and sign the document. However, the buyer also needs to acknowledge the statement by signing it, confirming that they understand the mileage reported.

What should I do if the odometer reading is not accurate?

If the odometer reading is not accurate, the seller must check the appropriate box on the form to indicate that the odometer reading does not reflect the actual mileage. This is important for transparency and to inform the buyer of any discrepancies. It is advisable to document any issues with the odometer and communicate them clearly to the buyer.

Common mistakes

  1. Not Providing Accurate Mileage: One of the most common mistakes is failing to accurately report the mileage on the odometer. It’s essential to ensure that the number you write down reflects the true mileage of the vehicle. Double-checking this detail can prevent potential legal issues.

  2. Ignoring the Odometer Statements: Many people overlook the importance of the statements regarding odometer discrepancies. If the mileage exceeds mechanical limits or is not actual mileage, it’s crucial to check the appropriate box. Neglecting this can lead to misunderstandings later on.

  3. Missing Signatures: A frequent error is forgetting to sign the form. Both the seller and buyer must provide their signatures for the document to be valid. Without these signatures, the transfer of ownership could be questioned.

  4. Incorrect Vehicle Information: Ensure that all vehicle details, such as the year, make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), are filled out correctly. Errors in this information can create confusion and may complicate the title transfer process.

  5. Failing to Date the Certification: It’s important to date the seller’s certification accurately. A missing or incorrect date can create problems down the line, especially if questions arise about when the transfer took place.

Documents used along the form

When completing a vehicle title transfer in Illinois, the Odometer Statement is just one of several important documents you may need. Below is a list of additional forms that are often used in conjunction with the Odometer Statement. Each document plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth and legal transfer of vehicle ownership.

  • Vehicle Title: This is the primary document that proves ownership of the vehicle. It includes details such as the vehicle's make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The seller must sign the title over to the buyer during the transaction.
  • Bill of Sale: This document serves as a receipt for the transaction. It outlines the sale price, date of sale, and the names and addresses of both the buyer and seller. While not always required, it is a good practice to have one for record-keeping.
  • Application for Title: After purchasing a vehicle, the buyer must fill out this form to apply for a new title in their name. It typically requires information about the vehicle and the buyer, and it must be submitted to the Secretary of State's office.
  • Emissions Test Certificate: Depending on the age and type of vehicle, an emissions test may be required before the title can be transferred. This certificate confirms that the vehicle meets state emissions standards.
  • Proof of Insurance: Before registering the vehicle, buyers must provide proof of insurance. This document shows that the vehicle is insured in accordance with Illinois state laws.
  • Power of Attorney: If the seller cannot be present during the title transfer, they may need to provide a Power of Attorney document. This allows another person to sign on their behalf, facilitating the transfer process.

Having these documents ready can streamline the title transfer process and help avoid any potential legal issues. It is always wise to double-check requirements with the Illinois Secretary of State's office to ensure compliance with current laws.

Similar forms

The Odometer Statement for Illinois is an important document in vehicle transactions, particularly during the transfer of ownership. It serves to disclose the mileage of a vehicle accurately. Several other documents share similarities with this form in terms of purpose and function. Here are four such documents:

  • Bill of Sale: This document outlines the terms of the sale between a buyer and seller. Like the Odometer Statement, it provides essential information about the vehicle and confirms the transfer of ownership. Both documents require signatures from both parties to validate the transaction.
  • Title Application: When applying for a vehicle title, the applicant must provide details about the vehicle, including its mileage. Similar to the Odometer Statement, this application is crucial for legally establishing ownership and ensuring that all information is accurate to prevent future disputes.
  • Vehicle History Report: This report offers a comprehensive look at a vehicle's past, including previous ownership and mileage records. It serves a similar purpose as the Odometer Statement by ensuring transparency and helping buyers make informed decisions based on the vehicle's history.
  • Transfer of Title Form: This form is used to officially transfer the title of a vehicle from one owner to another. It includes necessary information about the vehicle and the parties involved, paralleling the Odometer Statement in its role in documenting the transfer process and protecting against fraudulent claims.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Odometer Statement for Illinois, it’s important to ensure accuracy and compliance with state laws. Here’s a helpful list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do provide the correct mileage reading without any tenths.
  • Do ensure that the odometer reading reflects the actual mileage of the vehicle.
  • Do check the appropriate box if the mileage is in excess of mechanical limits or if there is an odometer discrepancy.
  • Do include all required information, such as the vehicle's year, make, model, and VIN.
  • Don't leave any fields blank; every section must be completed for the form to be valid.
  • Don't provide false information, as this can lead to fines or legal consequences.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form, both as the seller and the buyer.
  • Don't overlook the importance of including your complete address, including city and ZIP code.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth transfer of ownership for the vehicle.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Odometer Statement for Illinois is crucial for anyone involved in a vehicle title transfer. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are eight common misconceptions about this important form:

  • It's optional to complete the Odometer Statement. Many people believe that providing an odometer reading is not necessary. In reality, both federal and state laws require this information during a transfer of ownership.
  • Only the seller needs to sign the form. Some assume that only the seller's signature is needed. However, the buyer must also sign the form to acknowledge the odometer reading.
  • It’s acceptable to estimate the mileage. Many think that an estimate is sufficient. The form requires the actual mileage reading, with no tenths included, to ensure accuracy.
  • Filling out the form incorrectly has no consequences. Some individuals believe that minor mistakes are inconsequential. In fact, inaccuracies or false statements can lead to fines or even legal penalties.
  • Odometer readings can be left blank. There is a misconception that leaving the mileage section blank is acceptable. The form must have a completed odometer reading to be valid.
  • The Odometer Statement is only for used vehicles. Some think this form is only necessary for used cars. It applies to all vehicles being transferred, regardless of age.
  • Once the form is signed, it cannot be changed. Many believe that the signed form is final and cannot be amended. If errors are found, a new form can be completed to correct the information.
  • Only the seller is responsible for the accuracy of the odometer reading. Some assume that the seller bears all responsibility. Both parties share the duty to ensure the information is accurate and truthful.

Being aware of these misconceptions can help ensure a smooth title transfer process. Always take the time to understand the requirements and complete the Odometer Statement accurately.

Key takeaways

Filling out the Odometer Statement for Illinois is an essential step when transferring vehicle ownership. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Legal Requirement: Both federal and state laws mandate that you disclose the vehicle's mileage during a title transfer.
  • Accuracy is Crucial: Ensure that the mileage you report is accurate. Providing false information can lead to serious consequences, including fines or imprisonment.
  • Understanding Odometer Readings: The form requires you to report the odometer reading without tenths. This means you should round down to the nearest whole number.
  • Check for Discrepancies: If the odometer reading is not the actual mileage or if it exceeds its mechanical limits, you must check the appropriate box on the form.
  • Seller and Buyer Information: Both the seller and buyer need to provide their names, addresses, and signatures. This ensures that both parties are legally recognized in the transaction.
  • Certification Date: The seller must date the certification to confirm when the mileage was disclosed. This is important for record-keeping purposes.
  • Keep Copies: After completing the form, make copies for your records. This can be useful in case of future disputes or questions regarding the vehicle's history.
  • Accessing the Form: You can find the Odometer Statement on the Illinois Secretary of State's website. It’s important to use the most current version of the form.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and compliant vehicle title transfer process in Illinois.