Tracking explained

Odometer and Mileage Explained

Your odometer is the record of how far your vehicle has travelled, and it matters for tax, servicing, insurance and resale.

Updated 26 September 2026 · TrackerPrices SA

Quick answer: An odometer measures the total distance a vehicle has travelled. “Mileage” is the everyday word for that distance, even though South Africa measures it in kilometres. Mileage is also used to mean fuel consumption.

Reading your odometer

Most cars show the total (odometer) and a resettable trip meter on the dashboard display. Write down the total reading for your SARS logbook on 1 March and at the end of February each tax year.

How trackers record distance

Trackers calculate distance from GPS positions or read the odometer from the CAN bus. Fleet systems use this for trip logs, fuel reports and service reminders, which also makes a digital logbook easier.

Odometer tampering (clocking)

Some sellers wind back the odometer to raise a car’s price. Protect yourself when buying:

Check the service book and invoices for matching readings.
Compare wear on pedals, steering wheel and seats with the reading.
Get a vehicle history report. See VIN checks and vehicle codes.

FAQ

Common Questions

What does mileage mean?+

The distance a vehicle has travelled, shown on the odometer. It can also mean fuel consumption.

Can a tracker be used for a SARS logbook?+

Trip reports from a tracker can support your logbook, but make sure the logbook shows date, distance, destination and business reason for each business trip.