Used Car Mileage vs Age: What’s More Important When Buying a Car?
How would you know that your’re getting your money’s worth when buying used car? Is it through the age or the mileage? Let’s see.
What is a good mileage on a used car?
A car’s mileage is an important aspect when buying used; our guide sets out what can be considered a good mileage
When buying a used car, there are plenty of things to consider, from the body style and the fuel type, to the colour and the gearbox. How many miles a car has covered is also an important factor.
If you’re concerned about the risks and benefits of buying a high mileage car, or simply want to know what is considered a good mileage for a used car, this guide will answer your questions.
Why does mileage matter?
Mileage matters because it gives you a good indication of how much wear and tear a vehicle has been put through.
Typically, when comparing two otherwise similar vehicles, the one with the lower mileage will be the more appealing because the mechanical components will have suffered less wear, while the bodywork will have seen reduced risk of dings and dents.
There’s no hard and fast rule, though, with plenty of other things to consider, so we’ll address these points too.
What is the average mileage of a car?
It’s often said that the average person does 10,000 to 12,000 miles per year, but those numbers are becoming increasingly outdated.
Since the 2000s, this number has dropped steadily to about 7,500 miles per year in 2019 (before the pandemic skewed the numbers), meaning that you can expect a five-year-old car to have about 37,500 miles and a 10-year-old car to have 75,000.
What is considered high and low mileage for a used car?
To get an idea of what is considered a ‘normal’ mileage for a particular used car, you can divide the quoted mileage by the number of years on the road.
If the result is higher than 7,500 this could be considered a high mileage car, and if the number is below, it’s low mileage.
For example, a three-year-old car with 30,000 miles on the clock has averaged 10,000 miles per year, meaning it has covered more than a typical car its age. However, a five-year-old car with 30,000 miles has covered 6,000 miles each year, making it low mileage.
How many miles can a car do before it dies?
There’s a psychological barrier that exists at 100,000 miles. Traditionally the advice has been to avoid cars that have hit six figures, but this isn’t necessarily true.
The reality is that cars can happily travel well beyond 100,000 miles – simply look at the American market, where people travelling long distances between cities regularly rack up more than 250,000 miles.
So should you buy a high mileage car? Again, unfortunately, there’s no straight answer. Cars will happily go well beyond 100,000 miles when maintained correctly, so a well-documented service history should put your mind at ease when considering a car that has travelled far and wide.
It’s also fair to say that cars run best when they are used. A fastidiously maintained 10-year-old car with 150,000 miles could be a far better prospect than a car of the same age that has only done 30,000 miles, but has sat for long periods of time getting flat spots on its tires, dried-up seals, rings and gaskets, gunged-up injectors, a stretched timing chain, and more potential defects besides.
What else is important when considering a used car’s age?
The figures above are a great guide, but they should not be taken as gospel, as many other factors should be considered.
Motorway miles
Many fleet-friendly models will likely have racked up their miles on the motorway, where the engine has had time to get up to temperature and the consistent speeds are not too taxing.
Here, 100,000 miles should be of little concern, assuming that the car has been well looked after.
Low mileage red flags
Low-mileage diesel cars could be more of a concern. These engines need to get up to temperature on long runs occasionally to clear the diesel particulate filter (DPF). If this hasn’t happened, it could clog up and cause issues.
Even with other fuel types, a very low mileage could indicate regular short, stop-start journeys, where the car doesn’t get up to temperature. This can increase wear and tear and could cause issues down the line.
Service history
A comprehensive service history is a sure sign that a car has been looked after throughout its life. The more miles on the clock, the more important these documents become.
Check the dates of each service to ensure the work has been regularly carried out, and query any large gaps.
So, what mileage is good for a used car?
As a basic guide, the typical car will travel around 7,500 miles per year. So you can multiply a car’s age by 7,500 to find a vague target mileage.
As we’ve discussed, though, there are other factors such as service history and the type of vehicle and driving that has taken place, so don’t be too rigid when looking at mileage.
Get your next used car with carwow
Now you’re ready to buy your next used car, head over to carwow to take a look at our offers.
You can search by make and model, but if you’re not sure what to buy, our handy guide will look at your wants and needs and point you in the right direction.
Looking to sell your current car to fund your next one? We can help with that too. Simply upload photos and details of your vehicle to receive offers from dealers.
What is The Best Mileage For a Used Vehicle?
Good Mileage For used cars
When buying a used car, mileage is a crucial factor. Lower mileage generally indicates less wear and tear, but factors like age, make, model, and condition also matter. Service history, driving environment, and storage can also impact value. Understanding what constitutes good mileage for a used car can help you get the most value for your money. At Crossroads Ford of Lumberton, we’ll delve into the details of used car mileage, the factors that influence a car’s value, and how to assess a used car’s condition beyond just the odometer reading.
How Many Miles Is Too Much For A Used Car?
The average American driver puts well over 10,000 miles on their car annually. Using this as a benchmark, you can estimate a used car’s expected mileage based on its age. This baseline helps you determine what is good mileage for a used car. A 10-year-old ride with only 70,000 miles would be considered low mileage on a used car and could actually be a good deal. Conversely, a five-year-old car with 140,000 miles would be seen as high mileage, raising concerns about its condition and longevity.
How Mileage Impacts Pricing
Good mileage for a used car is a crucial factor in determining its value. Generally, lower-mileage cars command higher prices due to less usage and a potentially longer lifespan. However, high-mileage cars can still be a good option, particularly if they’ve been well-maintained. While they may require more regular repairs and maintenance due to age, a lower purchase price can offset these costs, especially if the car is likely to continue running smoothly for years to come. When evaluating a used car, consider its overall condition, maintenance history, and price in addition to mileage. A high-mileage car with a clean maintenance record and a low asking price might be a better value than a lower-mileage car with a history of neglect and a higher price tag. Ultimately, good mileage for used cars is just one of the factors in making a decision. Other considerations depend on your budget, driving needs, and risk tolerance.
Why Is High Mileage Bad?
While high mileage can be a red flag for some, it doesn’t always signal a bad car. Highway driving, with its steady speeds and fewer stops and starts, is generally less taxing on a vehicle than city driving. However, high-mileage cars require careful upkeep. A thorough inspection of the maintenance history is crucial, including consistent oil changes, timely repairs, and adherence to manufacturer recommendations. Consider your driving habits as well. If you commute long distances or frequently take road trips, a car with high mileage is not good mileage for a used model, as it might reach its typical lifespan sooner. Before making a purchase, always review the vehicle history report for any accidents, recalls, or other issues. A professional mechanic can also provide valuable insights into the car’s condition and potential problems. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about a high-mileage vehicle.
Beyond Mileage: Factors Affecting Used Car Condition
While good mileage for a used car is a valuable indicator of a car’s potential lifespan, it’s not the only factor to consider. The car’s history, including driving conditions and ownership changes, can significantly impact its condition. City driving, with its frequent stops and starts, can be more demanding on a vehicle than highway driving. Cars with a single owner are often better maintained than those with multiple owners. A detailed maintenance history is a crucial indicator of a well-cared-for car, regardless of mileage. Regular oil changes, timely repairs, and other preventive maintenance demonstrate a commitment to keeping the vehicle in good condition. By considering these factors in addition to mileage, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing a used car.
Mileage & Used Car Value
The odometer reading is a key indicator of a used car’s condition and potential future performance. Lower mileage generally suggests a better ride quality and fewer immediate repairs. However, maintenance history, driving environment, and brand reputation are also crucial factors to consider. Ford is a well-respected brand renowned for producing durable and reliable vehicles. Even with higher mileage, vehicles that have been consistently maintained can offer excellent value. When evaluating a used Ford beyond its good mileage for used cars, be sure to inspect the vehicle thoroughly, review its maintenance history, and consider your driving needs to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Best Mileage for a Used Car: Finding Your Ford
The ideal mileage for a used car depends on various factors. While cars with under 50,000 miles are generally preferred, well-maintained high-mileage vehicles from reputable brands can also be excellent options depending on your intended use. Factors like the car’s make, model, maintenance history, and your personal driving needs should be considered when evaluating a used car. Good mileage for a used car is just one piece of the puzzle. Assessing the car’s condition, maintenance history, and usage provides a clearer picture of its value and reliability. Whether you choose a used car with good mileage or a well-maintained high-mileage vehicle, informed decision-making ensures you get the best value for your investment. For a safe, reliable used car, explore our selection at Crossroads Ford of Lumberton today!
