Should You Buy a Car With High Mileage?
You have found the perfect 8-year-old preowned vehicle; the same make, model, and color you desired, with enticing features and an immaculate interior and exterior! But wait, you quickly realize that the mileage is 119,000 miles. You are in a dilemma. Should you go for it?
Well, it depends!
Well, it depends!
In this article, we will discuss what factors you should look at before buying a high-mileage vehicle, why you should even consider buying such a car, and the steps to follow to reach the right decision. But first, let’s do a bit of math.
What is Good Mileage?
The difference between a 5-year-old car and a 9-year-old car can be great. The simplest way to determine if a car has good mileage is by multiplying the age of the vehicle by the industry’s average amount of car usage in a year which is 12,000 to 15,000 miles. If that number is less or equal to the car mileage, there is a good chance it is a good buy. For example, a 5-year-old sedan with 72,000 miles on it is within the range.
(12,000x5=60,000/150,000x5=75,000)
In your scenario, your 8-year-old vehicle is within the range. (12,000x8=96,000/150,000x8=120,000)
Another way to look at this is by dividing the car’s mileage by its age. According to many industry experts, any result between 12,000 and 15,000 is acceptable.
What is Good Mileage?
The difference between a 5-year-old car and a 9-year-old car can be great. The simplest way to determine if a car has good mileage is by multiplying the age of the vehicle by the industry’s average amount of car usage in a year which is 12,000 to 15,000 miles. If that number is less or equal to the car mileage, there is a good chance it is a good buy. For example, a 5-year-old sedan with 72,000 miles on it is within the range.
(12,000x5=60,000/150,000x5=75,000)
In your scenario, your 8-year-old vehicle is within the range. (12,000x8=96,000/150,000x8=120,000)
Another way to look at this is by dividing the car’s mileage by its age. According to many industry experts, any result between 12,000 and 15,000 is acceptable.
What Factors Should You Consider Before Buying?
Many auto experts agree that 100,000 miles is generally the maximum mileage to consider when buying a used car; however, you should also look at the car model and make, maintenance history, location, and the pre-owner usage.
Many auto experts agree that 100,000 miles is generally the maximum mileage to consider when buying a used car; however, you should also look at the car model and make, maintenance history, location, and the pre-owner usage.
Model & Make
Choose a model known for reliability and low repair costs. Any car with over 100,000 miles will likely be out of warranty and may require significant maintenance or repairs, unless you buy an extended warranty. Choosing a vehicle with a strong reliability record and low maintenance costs can help keep future expenses manageable even if it was beyond 100,000 miles.
According to Consumer reports, Honda and Toyota are among the topmost problem-free vehicles even after traveling around 200,000 miles. You can access the full CR reports for a small fee and free cancellation at any time, using the following link:
https://www.consumerreports.org/join/?INTKEY=I7BCAT1
You can research reputable websites for car makes and models with good high-mileage ratings. For example, CarGurus suggests the following options:
According to Consumer reports, Honda and Toyota are among the topmost problem-free vehicles even after traveling around 200,000 miles. You can access the full CR reports for a small fee and free cancellation at any time, using the following link:
https://www.consumerreports.org/join/?INTKEY=I7BCAT1
You can research reputable websites for car makes and models with good high-mileage ratings. For example, CarGurus suggests the following options:
- The early-generation Jeep Cherokee or any Jeep with the previous generation’s 4.0-liter inline 6-cylinder could last for years.
- The Honda accord is among the most popular of Japanese-born car with high reputation for reliability.
- The Mercedes-Benz 300-Class can go 500,000 miles without requiring a new engine due to its bulletproof 3-liter 5-cylinder OM617 diesel engine.
- The Chevrolet Suburban has a true body-on-frame and a V8 engine to reduce its horsepower-per-liter measurement to about 53, which indicates less stress on the body and more longevity.
- The older Toyota Tacoma models are among the toughest and most reliable cars ever produced.
- For sports car models, the Mazda MX-5 Miata may be your only choice, preferably if it has never been driven on a track.
Usage
How a preowned car was used and in which locations it was driven can be a good indicator of the vehicle’s performance. Here are a few points to consider:
Although you cannot visually tell if a pre-owned vehicle was mostly driven on “good roads,” a comprehensive vehicle history from sources like Carfax can reveal clues about its primary location and environment including regions with severe winter weather or high humidity.
In addition, you can often spot major wear on a car’s transmission, suspension and other components before buying by conducting a thorough test drive. Listen for strange noises, pay attention to handling, and observe how the vehicle responds on various rough road surfaces, especially during acceleration, braking, and over bumps. Signs like rough shifting, clunking noises, excessive bouncing, or uneven tire wear can point to undesired issues.
Moreover, a vehicle with high mileage may have been used by previous owners for commercial purposes, such as ridesharing or delivery, which may suggest more wear on components like the engine, transmission, and brakes. A vehicle report may show you such usage patterns as well as the car’s geographic and service history. You can use this valuable information to better estimate the car’s remaining life, maintenance needs, and potential future costs and decide whether you want to move forward with the purchase.
Location
Cars that have been driven in a warm, dry climate will likely be in better shape than those that have undergone cold and wet conditions.
As previously mentioned, a detailed vehicle history can identify if the car was used in regions with rough conditions, like harsh winters or areas that use heavy road salt, which can cause corrosion and impact the undercarriage overtime.
How a preowned car was used and in which locations it was driven can be a good indicator of the vehicle’s performance. Here are a few points to consider:
- A car with over 100,000 miles driven on a highway may be in better condition than a car with lower mileage driven in the city because the stop-and-go traffic can be harsh on the vehicle’s components such as the brake pads.
- Poor road conditions can greatly impact a car’s performance over time by accelerating wear on parts like tires, suspension, alignment, and brakes. Bumps and potholes can put stress on suspension components like shocks and struts which is essential for a smooth ride and proper handling. So, steer away from a vehicle with high mileage that has been through rough roads.
- A hilly road and steep inclines make a car’s transmission more vulnerable to damage and breakdown over time.
Although you cannot visually tell if a pre-owned vehicle was mostly driven on “good roads,” a comprehensive vehicle history from sources like Carfax can reveal clues about its primary location and environment including regions with severe winter weather or high humidity.
In addition, you can often spot major wear on a car’s transmission, suspension and other components before buying by conducting a thorough test drive. Listen for strange noises, pay attention to handling, and observe how the vehicle responds on various rough road surfaces, especially during acceleration, braking, and over bumps. Signs like rough shifting, clunking noises, excessive bouncing, or uneven tire wear can point to undesired issues.
Moreover, a vehicle with high mileage may have been used by previous owners for commercial purposes, such as ridesharing or delivery, which may suggest more wear on components like the engine, transmission, and brakes. A vehicle report may show you such usage patterns as well as the car’s geographic and service history. You can use this valuable information to better estimate the car’s remaining life, maintenance needs, and potential future costs and decide whether you want to move forward with the purchase.
Location
Cars that have been driven in a warm, dry climate will likely be in better shape than those that have undergone cold and wet conditions.
As previously mentioned, a detailed vehicle history can identify if the car was used in regions with rough conditions, like harsh winters or areas that use heavy road salt, which can cause corrosion and impact the undercarriage overtime.
Maintenance History
Regular maintenance is crucial for a car to last a long time; therefore, you should consider how and where the car was cared for by the previous owner.
High-mileage cars can be a solid choice if they have a strong maintenance record and show no signs of major structural damage.
The number of previous owners can also have a significant impact on the car’s condition and maintenance. If one vehicle has higher mileage but only one previous owner, while another with lower mileage has had four owners in the same time frame, the higher mileage car might be a better option. Cars with a single owner are often better preserved than those with multiple owners.
Moreover, a high-mileage car in good visual condition is a strong indicator that it was well taken care of by its previous owners. It’s more than likely that it was receiving regular maintenance service.
To be on the safe side, check the vehicle’s maintenance record. If it is due for a major service, ask your mechanic for an estimate and factor it into your overall assessment of the vehicle.
Why Would You Consider a Vehicle with High Mileage?
Many people avoid high-mileage cars, believing they are riskier due to the assumption that more kilometers mean potential issues; however, buying such a vehicle can save you money.
Most of a car’s depreciation happens within the first 100,000 miles. After which the rate of value loss slows. For instance, a car with 150,000 miles may be priced lower than one with 80,000 miles and is likely to hold its value over time.
When comparing similar models, the price gap between different mileages can be minimal. This means you could potentially break even on your initial investment and use that money toward your next car. In addition, opting for a high-mileage car gives you the opportunity to negotiate the price with the seller.
Another reason for considering a high-mileage car is the fact that high-mileage can be associated with its overall health. This is because consistent use of a vehicle aids in lubrication and helps burn off carbon buildup. Proper lubrication prevents engine and gearbox wear, while burning deposit improves airflow and efficiency.
High-mileage cars can be a solid choice if they have a strong maintenance record and show no signs of major structural damage.
The number of previous owners can also have a significant impact on the car’s condition and maintenance. If one vehicle has higher mileage but only one previous owner, while another with lower mileage has had four owners in the same time frame, the higher mileage car might be a better option. Cars with a single owner are often better preserved than those with multiple owners.
Moreover, a high-mileage car in good visual condition is a strong indicator that it was well taken care of by its previous owners. It’s more than likely that it was receiving regular maintenance service.
To be on the safe side, check the vehicle’s maintenance record. If it is due for a major service, ask your mechanic for an estimate and factor it into your overall assessment of the vehicle.
Why Would You Consider a Vehicle with High Mileage?
Many people avoid high-mileage cars, believing they are riskier due to the assumption that more kilometers mean potential issues; however, buying such a vehicle can save you money.
Most of a car’s depreciation happens within the first 100,000 miles. After which the rate of value loss slows. For instance, a car with 150,000 miles may be priced lower than one with 80,000 miles and is likely to hold its value over time.
When comparing similar models, the price gap between different mileages can be minimal. This means you could potentially break even on your initial investment and use that money toward your next car. In addition, opting for a high-mileage car gives you the opportunity to negotiate the price with the seller.
Another reason for considering a high-mileage car is the fact that high-mileage can be associated with its overall health. This is because consistent use of a vehicle aids in lubrication and helps burn off carbon buildup. Proper lubrication prevents engine and gearbox wear, while burning deposit improves airflow and efficiency.
What Steps Should You Take for a Car with High Mileage?
To summarize what we have covered above, follow this comprehensive list of steps that can help you make an informative decision:
Conclusion
To summarize, high-mileage cars can be a smart investment when chosen carefully. Although they may seem risky to some, it often reflects consistent use and maintenance, particularly if the car is in good condition. In addition, these cars tend to retain value better over time. With a comprehensive inspection and knowledge of its upkeep, a high-mileage car can provide dependable performance and good resale potential, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers.
Happy Driving!
- Research car models known for good mileage ratings.
- Read independent reviews from popular car sites and actual customer reviews on car forums for that specific model.
- Familiarize yourself with the common issues that high-mileage vehicles encounter to help you calculate your maintenance costs.
- Compare the asking price of the car you found to the average market price as well as your budget.
- Compare the car’s mileage with its age to determine whether the ratio is acceptable.
- Research car insurance with adequate coverage for the high mileage vehicle.
- Visually inspect the car’s interior and exterior. Check for signs of damage like scratches, dents, or tears in the upholstery. Inspect under the undercarriage for rust, leaks, holes or any other mechanical problems.
- Review the vehicle’s history report through sources such as Carfax. This will provide you with vital information about the previous owners, repairs, accidents, damage, and maintenance.
- Check the car’s performance by test-driving it. Make sure that everything is working properly.
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase to spot potential issues such as engine trouble or rust, that could turn into bigger problems down the road.
- Once satisfied, negotiate a good price by pointing out to the seller that it is a high mileage vehicle.
Conclusion
To summarize, high-mileage cars can be a smart investment when chosen carefully. Although they may seem risky to some, it often reflects consistent use and maintenance, particularly if the car is in good condition. In addition, these cars tend to retain value better over time. With a comprehensive inspection and knowledge of its upkeep, a high-mileage car can provide dependable performance and good resale potential, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers.
Happy Driving!
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