What does the federal odometer law declare is unlawful?

The federal odometer law specifically makes it unlawful to operate a vehicle with a disconnected odometer. This regulation is in place to ensure the accuracy of a vehicle's mileage, which is an important factor for buyers assessing the potential value and condition of a vehicle. When an odometer is disconnected, it cannot provide an accurate reading of how far the vehicle has traveled, which can lead to misleading information for prospective buyers.

Maintaining a functional odometer is crucial, as it helps prevent fraud related to mileage. This law aims to create transparency in vehicle sales and protects consumers from buying vehicles that might have had their mileage tampered with or are otherwise misrepresented. By ensuring that odometers are operational, the law promotes fair dealings in the automotive marketplace.