How Much Mileage is Good On a Used Car?

When looking for a new-to-you car, you want to assess the physical and mechanical conditions and check the mileage. It’s commonly said that one should avoid a car that has over 100,000 miles, but that isn’t always the case. A vehicle that is well maintained could very well be a good buy despite the mileage. Pocatello drivers should consider condition, location, and usage – a trifecta of finding your used vehicle. Here is our Sayer Nissan guide to smart used car mileage:

How to Shop for a Used Car

Besides looking at the used car mileage, here are a few things you should consider when looking at a used car: 

• Usage – Where a car has been driven can cause it to wear down sooner. For example, 75,000 stop-and-go traffic miles are a lot harsher on a car than 75,000 highway miles. It’s important to get the owner’s driving history when assessing your vehicle.

• Location – different climates cause different levels of damage to a car. Dry, warm climates cause less stress than cold, wet climates. 

• Condition – A certified mechanic can properly determine if there are any mechanical problems or rust. Factor this into your vehicle costs. 

• Maintenance – Irregular servicing could cause future problems, make sure to check the maintenance history to ensure that routine services were taken care of. 

What is the Best Used Car Mileage?

How much mileage is good for a used car? There is no exact answer for this question, but there are particular things to consider. A used car with 50,000 miles that seems to function properly is very likely a good purchase. At the same time, if it is in good condition, a cheap used car with 100,000 miles can still last you a few years. The average driver drives around 12,000 miles per year, so this is a good baseline for assessing mileage. 

Used Car Mileage vs. Age 

A new car with high mileage might be a better option than an older car with lower mileage. Repair costs can be higher for a car that hasn’t been driven regularly because mechanical issues and problems with rubber seals and gaskets can develop. Having a well-documented history from the previous owner is highly recommended. Lastly, low mileage usually means a higher price tag.Considering a Certified Pre-Owned car that is like-new and low in mileage can be an ideal compromise. 

Find a Used Car in Ammon Today

Sayer Nissan has a variety of pre-owned cars available. We can help you find the best for you. If you are curious about vehicle specials and want to find deals near Rexburg contact us, and we’ll happily answer any questions.