What Is the Best Mileage to Buy a Used Car?

What is the best mileage to buy a used car? This is the question that all of us wonder about every time we buy a vehicle. Overall mileage always plays a crucial role in making the final decision. However, what exactly is the ideal mileage for a second-hand vehicle? Some may say that the ideal mileage for a car is 12,000 miles per year. Although that might sound reasonable, mileage can vary drastically depending on several factors. The model of the vehicle, maintenance, and owner’s driving manners can change the actual reality.
Most people prefer to buy cars with lower mileage, but mileage is not always the most important factor in a car’s overall value. Sometimes, higher-mileage cars may turn out to be way better maintained than a newer car with a lower model. We will discuss how to detect the best mileage to buy a used car.

The Importance of Mileage When Buying a Used Car

The Odometer is the device that tracks and measures your car’s mileage. You can convert the overall mileage into several statistics and determine your vehicle’s overall condition. The odometer showing is crucial for various reasons.

1. The Relationship Between Mileage and Vehicle Wear

As a car gains miles on the road, its components gradually experience wear and tear. Consequently, the engine, transmission, suspension, and other critical elements deteriorate. That is why higher mileage naturally should have increased wear and tear. This generally requires frequent repairs and costs more to owners. Therefore, vehicles with more mileage are considered to require maintenance and repair costs than vehicles with lower odometer readings.

2. How Mileage Can Determine the Vehicle Age

You may think that vehicle age is easy to determine. You have the manufacturer’s information about the vehicles. So you can easily check the date and determine the age. However, the “real” age of the vehicle goes beyond the date written on the documents. The reality is that a 10-year car with 200,000 miles should be considered older than a well-maintained automobile that is 20 years old and covers 150,000 miles. This is why mileage is sometimes seen as a better indicator of a vehicle’s age than an actual date shown on the paper.

3. Can Vehicle Mileage Affect Resale Value?

Every time we buy a new automobile, we consider the future resale price. If you buy a car with too much mileage on the odometer, it will be difficult to resell it for a high price. Experienced drivers usually try to determine the best mileage to buy a used car. This will help them resell their cars for a higher price and, in some cases, even make a profit.

What Factors You Should Consider When Buying a Used Car?

Mileage is an essential factor in vehicles, and it provides valuable data. Although it is considered one of the most important parts of your car, mileage shouldn’t be seen as the only consideration while buying an automobile. There are several other aspects that can significantly affect vehicle condition and change how you assess it.

• Maintenance: When you assess a car, one of the first things that you need to check is the maintenance records and physical signs of wear. This might include service records, proof of oil changes, any previous tunings, or maintenance. This will give you a clearer idea of how well the vehicle was maintained.
• Driving Conditions: Total miles create a picture of vehicle usage. However, the owner’s driving habits and the environment will create a bigger image of the car. Imagine how much difference it can make by just comparing whether you drive on a highway or in busy city centers. If you usually drive on a free highway, it will be easier for the car to maintain its condition. On the other hand, frequent drives in a busy city center will accelerate the depreciation of its parts.
• Manufacturers and the Model: Some car manufacturers are famous for their high-quality materials and longevity. Their vehicles are durable for a longer period and rarely lose original efficiency. Most cars have a typical lifespan, and people usually know which brand to trust.
• Your Intended Usage and Purpose: Cars are manufactured for various purposes. If you choose the wrong car for your purposes, it will definitely impact your vehicle’s lifespan and efficiency.

What Is the Best Mileage to Buy a Used Car?

Twelve thousand miles a year is considered the best mileage for a normal vehicle. There are three categories: low mileage (under 30,000 miles), moderate mileage (30,00-100,000 miles), and high mileage (over 100,000 miles). Remember, these are not the ultimate guidelines to asses a vehicle and check different aspects.

Low Mileage Cars: Under 30,000 Miles

Automobiles with 30,000 miles or less are seen as low-mileage. Suh vehicles are a great choice for those who are looking for almost new vehicles with most of their factory warranty remaining. These cars are good choices for multiple reasons:

• Minimal wear and tear on a car;
• It comes with the latest technological systems and features;
• Will have a higher resale price;

Moderate Mileage: Between 30,000-100,000 Miles

Most vehicles record moderate mileage on the dashboard. This number may vary from 30,000 miles to 100,000 miles. Of course, the lower the miles, the better. Moderate-mileage cars have a good balance of price and remaining lifespan.

• The major depreciation has already occurred in a car;
• Prices are a lot lower compared to lower mileage vehicles;
• The vehicle and its major parts still should be in a good condition;

Example: A five-year-old Toyota Camry with 60,000 miles may offer great value, combining reliability with an affordable price point.

High Mileage Autos: Over 100,000 miles

Vehicles in this class can offer considerable discounts but may require more thorough inspection and selection. If maintenance or small repairs are not an issue for you, it might be the best choice. However, it also has some risks.

• Many parts can be at their expiration time;
• The resale price is significantly decreased;
• Frequent repairs and maintenance expenses;

For instance, a ten-year-old Honda car might have a lower price tag, but it comes at its price. It can require a lot of money for maintenance and different services. In addition, you never know how when the parts will break down or exceed their lifespan.

How to Check Correct Mileage of Car

To check the correct mileage of a car, you can take some steps:

1. Start by reviewing the car’s odometer. It records the mileage a vehicle travels. But make sure the display isn’t tampered with. Check it by looking for signs of irregular digits or inconsistencies in the reading.
2. Compare vehicle miles with the service records and maintenance history. Any mismatch with the information can be a potential fraud.
3. Get the verified records through a vehicle history report. This will provide you with detailed information, including past mileage records.
4. If you’re buying a used car, let the professional mechanic check the vehicle’s data.
5. Check the physical signs of manipulation. Look for worn-out pedals, steering wheels, or seat cushions, which might signal higher usage than what’s reported.

Tips for Buying a Used Car Based on Mileage

Now that we’ve gone over the different mileage ranges, here are some practical recommendations to help you make the best selection when purchasing a used car:

1. Set a limit for car mileage in advance. Don’t be too strict, but have a range in mind so that you can more easily filter the cars of your liking.
2. Calculate yearly mileage. Divide total miles by car age to calculate average annual use. This might help you identify automobiles that have been driven more or less than usual.
3. Be skeptical of automobiles with extremely low mileage for their age, even if low mileage is normally considered excellent. Long periods of inactivity can lead to a variety of issues.
4. Prior to purchasing a secondhand automobile, have a thorough inspection from a trustworthy technician, regardless of mileage. They can discover possible problems and give you a better idea of the vehicle’s genuine condition.
5. Examine the vehicle history report.Websites such as Carfax or AutoCheck may offer important details about an automobile’s past, such as maintenance records, ownership history, and accident history.

Mileage Blocker Tool for Increasing Mileage Efficiency During Car Testing

The Mileage Blocker helps testers check cars without adding extra miles. Designed by the SKF team for legal automotive testing, this tool stops the system from recording miles while the car is running. It’s made in Germany with high-quality parts and works with most car brands and models. The Mileage Blocker also has a mobile app, making it easy to control from your phone. You can install it yourself by following simple instructions.
You can find this device on the Super Kilometer Filter website and order it anytime. If you have questions, their customer service team is ready to help. This tool is useful when you want to test vehicles while preserving the best mileage to buy a used car.

Takeaway

The best mileage to buy a used car depends on various factors, and it’s essential to understand how mileage impacts vehicle value and condition. While 12,000 miles per year is often considered ideal, factors like maintenance, driving habits, and the car’s model can significantly alter its condition. Low-mileage cars (under 30,000 miles) tend to have minimal wear and hold a higher resale value. Moderate-mileage vehicles (30,000 to 100,000 miles) offer a balance between affordability and lifespan. High-mileage cars (over 100,000 miles) can be cheaper but often require more frequent repairs. Ultimately, focus on the overall condition, not just the mileage.