When buying a used car, consumers often check the mileage to assess the vehicle’s quality. So, what’s a good mileage for a used car?
When purchasing a used vehicle, you want one that can transport you thousands or tens of thousands of miles without breaking down or encountering major issues. Typically, a car with fewer kilometers traveled will accompany you for a longer duration. However, this usually means a higher price. You need to balance financial considerations with the distance you intend to cover to make the optimal choice.
The average annual mileage for a regular commuter is around 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year (19,312 to 24,140 kilometers per year). For instance, a 5-year-old car might have covered 60,000 to 75,000 miles (96,000 to 120,000 kilometers), while a 10-year-old car could have reached 120,000 to 150,000 miles (192,000 to 240,000 kilometers).
At a certain point in a car’s lifespan, repairs tend to become more frequent. This isn’t solely determined by the car’s “age” or mileage, but it often occurs around 8 to 10 years and reaches 100,000 to 120,000 miles (160,000 to 192,000 kilometers). This is inevitable as no car runs indefinitely without issues.
If there’s a specific “age” and mileage to avoid, it’s typically a decade-old car with an odometer reading in the six-digit range.
Moreover, buying a slightly older car by 1 to 2 years that’s been consistently maintained and accident-free might be a better choice than a seemingly newer car that has been in accidents or poorly maintained. While there are many considerations when buying a used car, the overall condition is the most crucial factor.
Be cautious of a seemingly new-looking car that has significantly surpassed the average annual mileage of 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year (19,312 to 24,140 kilometers per year).
Any car displaying a much higher annual mileage suggests excessive use, leading to increased maintenance needs. These expenses can be reduced if you opt for a car with lower mileage.
However, according to experts, while mileage is crucial, it’s not the only factor. When assessing overall condition, pay attention to the exterior, interior, engine, maintenance history, etc., to make the most satisfactory purchase decision.
