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The Texas Odometer Statement form, officially known as VTR-40, plays a crucial role in the vehicle ownership transfer process. It is designed to ensure that both buyers and sellers provide accurate mileage information, complying with federal and state laws. This form requires the seller or their agent to certify the vehicle's odometer reading, affirming that it reflects the actual mileage unless specific conditions are met. These conditions include instances where the odometer reading exceeds mechanical limits or is not the true mileage. Acknowledgment from the buyer is also necessary, confirming awareness of the odometer disclosure made by the seller. It is important to note that this form cannot be used alongside title transfer documents that already meet odometer disclosure requirements, such as the Texas Certificate of Title issued after April 29, 1990. Failing to complete the form accurately or providing false information can lead to serious consequences, including fines or imprisonment. This underscores the importance of honesty and diligence when filling out the Texas Odometer Statement.
Texas Odometer Statement Preview
(Seller/Agent Name)
ODOMETER DISCLOSURE
STATEMENT
DHT # 142235
Federal and State Law require that you state the mileage in connection with the transfer of ownership. Failure to complete or providing a false statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment. This form may not be used in conjunction with title transfer documents, which comply with federal and state odometer disclosure requirements such as Texas Certificate of Titles issued on or after April 29, 1990.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION
Year
Make
Body Style
Model
Vehicle Identification Number
I, ______________________________________________, certify to the best of my knowledge that the odometer reading is
the actual mileage of the vehicle described above unless one of the following statements is checked:
Odometer
Reading |
(No Tenths) |
1.The mileage stated is in excess of its mechanical limits.
2.The odometer reading is not the actual mileage.
WARNING – ODOMETER DISCREPANCY.
Date ofSignature of Seller/AgentPrinted Name (Same as Signature) Statement
If titled in a firm’s name, print the firm’s name on the line above.
Street Address |
City |
State |
Zip Code |
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF ODOMETER DISCLOSURE BY BUYER/AGENT
I am aware of the above odometer certification made by the seller/agent.
Date of |
Signature of Buyer/Agent |
Printed Name (Same as Signature) |
Statement |
|
|
If purchased by a firm, print the firm’s name on the line above.
Street Address |
City |
State |
Zip Code |
WARNING: TRANSPORTATION CODE, §501.155, PROVIDES THAT FALSIFYING INFORMATION ON ANY REQUIRED STATEMENT OR APPLICATION IS A
Common mistakes
-
Neglecting to provide accurate mileage. The odometer reading must reflect the actual mileage. Providing incorrect information can lead to serious legal consequences.
-
Failing to check applicable statements. If the odometer reading is not the actual mileage, you must check the appropriate box on the form to indicate this discrepancy.
-
Omitting the vehicle identification number (VIN). This critical piece of information must be included to uniquely identify the vehicle being sold.
-
Not signing the form. Both the seller and buyer must sign the document. A missing signature can invalidate the form.
-
Using the form for title transfers incorrectly. This form should not be used alongside title transfer documents that already meet federal and state requirements.
-
Ignoring the acknowledgment section. Buyers must acknowledge the odometer disclosure made by the seller. Failing to complete this section can lead to disputes later.
-
Not providing complete contact information. Ensure that both parties fill in their full addresses, including city, state, and zip code, for proper identification.
-
Overlooking the warning about falsifying information. Understanding the legal implications of providing false information is crucial. This can lead to severe penalties.
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Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Texas Odometer Statement form, it is crucial to ensure accuracy and compliance with the law. Here are eight essential dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
- Do provide the correct odometer reading without any tenths.
- Do check the appropriate box if the odometer reading is not the actual mileage.
- Do include your signature and printed name in the designated areas.
- Do ensure that all information is legible and clearly written.
- Don't provide false information on the form, as it can lead to severe penalties.
- Don't forget to include the vehicle's complete description, including the VIN.
- Don't use this form for title transfers that do not meet federal and state requirements.
- Don't neglect to inform the buyer/agent of any discrepancies in the odometer reading.
Misconceptions
When dealing with the Texas Odometer Statement form, there are several misconceptions that can lead to confusion. Understanding these can help ensure a smoother transaction when transferring vehicle ownership.
- Misconception 1: The Odometer Statement is optional.
- Misconception 2: The form can be used with any title transfer documents.
- Misconception 3: Only the seller needs to sign the form.
- Misconception 4: The odometer reading can be estimated.
- Misconception 5: Odometer discrepancies are not a big deal.
- Misconception 6: The form is only for private sales.
- Misconception 7: Falsifying information is just a paperwork issue.
Many people believe that completing the Odometer Statement is not necessary. In reality, federal and state laws require this statement during the transfer of ownership. Failing to provide accurate mileage can result in serious consequences.
Some assume that the Odometer Statement can accompany any title transfer paperwork. However, it cannot be used with title transfers that already meet odometer disclosure requirements, such as the Texas Certificate of Title issued after April 29, 1990.
It's a common belief that only the seller's signature is necessary. In fact, both the seller and the buyer (or their agents) must sign the form to acknowledge the odometer disclosure.
Some think it’s acceptable to provide an estimated odometer reading. This is incorrect. The form requires the actual mileage to be stated, and providing false information can lead to legal repercussions.
Many believe that discrepancies in odometer readings are minor issues. In reality, they can indicate fraud or tampering, and failing to disclose them can lead to severe penalties.
Some people think the Odometer Statement is only necessary for private transactions. However, it is also required for dealership sales and any transfer of ownership involving a vehicle.
Finally, some may view falsifying information on the form as a simple mistake. This is a serious offense. Under Texas law, it is classified as a third-degree felony, which can lead to significant legal consequences.
Detailed Guide for Using Texas Odometer Statement
Completing the Texas Odometer Statement form is essential for ensuring a smooth transfer of vehicle ownership. After filling out the form, both the seller and buyer must sign to acknowledge the odometer reading provided. Below are the steps to accurately complete the form.
- Begin by entering the seller's or agent's name at the top of the form.
- Fill in the vehicle description section, including:
- Year
- Make
- Body Style
- Model
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- In the section labeled Odometer Reading, write the mileage without tenths.
- Check one of the following statements if applicable:
- The mileage stated is in excess of its mechanical limits.
- The odometer reading is not the actual mileage.
- Sign and date the form in the Signature of Seller/Agent section.
- Print the name of the seller or agent in the Printed Name section.
- If the vehicle is titled in a firm’s name, print the firm’s name on the designated line.
- Provide the street address, city, state, and zip code of the seller or agent.
- In the Buyer/Agent section, the buyer must sign and date the form to acknowledge the odometer disclosure.
- Print the name of the buyer or agent in the Printed Name section.
- If purchased by a firm, print the firm’s name on the designated line.
- Finally, provide the street address, city, state, and zip code of the buyer or agent.