How Many Miles is Too Many on a Used Car

Buying a used car instead of a new one is a good way to save money. Not only is the purchase
price lower, but you’ll also save when it comes to registration, taxes, and in some cases,
insurance. It’s a given that the cars you find at used car dealers will have some miles on them,
but how many miles should a used car have? Is there such a thing as too many miles when it
comes to used cars?

What Is Considered High Mileage?

The average driver puts 13,000 to 14,000 miles on their car every year. A car that averages
more than this is considered a high-mileage car. For many, 100,000 miles is considered high
mileage because, depending on the vehicle, it’s when a vehicle may start requiring more
expensive repairs.

Does Mileage Matter?

Mileage matters, but only to a certain point. There is a direct relationship between the lifespan
of the moving components and mileage. Since the moving parts are regularly used, it is
inevitable that they will wear down and eventually wear out, but a well-maintained car will
keep the components working for longer.

Advancements in technology have also increased the average lifespan of modern vehicles.
What used to last an average of eight years will now reliably run for 12 years, and this is partly
because of how parts are designed and made.

How Did the Car Get the Miles?

One of the questions you should ask when shopping at used car dealers is how it was used. Was
it a commuter car that drove up and down the highway for 80,000 miles, or was it driven hard
in city traffic? An older car with 50,000 miles on it is well below the average, but you have to
consider that the stop-and-go in city traffic is not good for an engine or its components.
It’s just as important to be wary of too few miles as it is to be wary of too many miles.

How Many Miles Is Too Many?

Ultimately, the question of how many miles is too many is up to you. If you find a used vehicle
that is in good condition and has 150,000 miles on it, it’s a better buy than finding a used car
that the previous owner didn’t take care of with 30,000 miles on it. Many well-maintained
vehicles, whether it’s a sedan, SUV, or truck, will go well over 100,000 miles and 200,000 miles
without needing extensive repairs.

How to Make a Used Car with High Miles Last

Used car dealers are the place to go when you want to find a great deal on a used car. When
you find one that works for you, even if it has high miles, you can make it last. Just make sure to
fix any problems as soon as possible, don’t ignore your check engine light or any other
dashboard lights. Also, drive it gently, and treat it with the care it deserves.