What Is Good Mileage for a Used Car?

If you are considering buying a used car in Montgomery but worried about potential repair costs, take a look at our guide to used car mileage so you can answer the question “What is good mileage for a used car?” Don’t hesitate to reach out to us in Cincinnati if you have any questions! 

What Is Considered High Mileage for a Used Car?

Due to the exponential increase in vehicle repair costs over the lifespan of a car, most people purchasing older cars are looking for something below 100,000 miles. Taking into account that the average driver puts about 10,000-12,000 miles per year on their vehicle, there are some factors at play to consider:

• How many miles vs. age of the car: A vehicle that is a year old with 40,000 miles on it may be in worse shape than a five-year-old vehicle with 60,000 miles on it, because it has been extensively driven in a shorter span of time.
• Year of manufacture: Within the last decade, car manufacturing has improved significantly, which means there are now more recently used models that will last well over 100,000 miles, and even past 200,000 miles.
• Regularly Scheduled Maintenance: A vehicle with 15,000 miles on it that did not receive regular maintenance may have more issues than a vehicle with 30,000 miles on it that did receive regular maintenance. When purchasing, be sure to ask for proof of maintenance.

Additional Things to Consider When Buying a Used Car

• Model Generation: Sometimes when a model with a great reputation is redesigned after a few years for the new generation or “iteration,” it can go badly. Inversely, a vehicle that perhaps was less than stellar in the past may have been improved with a redesign. This can usually be sussed out on review websites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds.com.
• Vehicle History Report: A vehicle history report from the previous owner will show any repair reports, collisions, police records, and DMV records, that may tell you more about what wear and tear the car has sustained over the years. 
• Location: The Vehicle History Report will also tell you where this car has “lived”—dryer climates like southern California are gentler on vehicles than places with lots of humidity.
• Foreign Luxury Car Brands: Due to the cost of shipping high-end replacement OEM parts overseas, luxury vehicles can become expensive to repair. On the other hand, these brands often have excellent warranties if you are purchasing certified pre-owned, and luxury dealerships may provide perks while your car is being serviced.

Come to Columbia Hyundai for Your Used Car Needs

Test drive high-quality low mileage used cars for sale near Fairfield and Mason, and take a look at our used vehicle specials if you are ready to get a great deal on your next car!