What Is Good Mileage On A Used Car?

Along with examining the physical condition of a used car and the mechanical competency, you will want to take mileage into consideration when shopping pre-owned. In the past, the general rule of thumb was to avoid any model with more than 100,000 miles on the odometer. However, with the recent advancements in automotive design and maintenance technology, vehicles can stay on the road much longer than ever before. Along with mileage, you will want to take note of the condition, location, and usage of the model that has caught your eye. Learn more about used car shopping and what is good mileage on a used car with our finance experts below!

The Smart Way to Shop for a Used Car

While good mileage for a used car can be a weighted factor, there are other aspects to ponder when shopping for a pre-owned model, including:

• Usage – A car that has been driven primarily in stop and go city traffic will have much more wear and tear than a vehicle that has the same mileage, but has spent its life on the highway. If you can, find out the driving habits of the previous owner as each mile on the odometer is not created equal.
• Location – If the vehicle you intended to purchase was from a dry, warm climate, it will likely be in better condition than a vehicle from a cold or wet area.
• Condition – Work with a certified mechanic to conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle. This is the best way to spot any issues that could crop up after your purchase. If any concerns are noted, consider how the cost of the repairs may work with your budget.
• Maintenance – The maintenance record of a vehicle can tell you a lot about the lifespan you can expect. An erratic service history may be indicative of a vehicle that won’t last.

Can You Determine Good Mileage for a Used Car?

Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer to the question, “what is good mileage on a used car?” As we discussed above, mileage is a sign of the status of a vehicle, but many other factors can also determine if a vehicle is considered a good buy. A good way to think about it is to examine how many miles you can get out of a used car. If a vehicle has 50,000 miles and is in good shape, that is likely a sound investment. If you prefer to stick to a more modest budget, you can easily secure the keys to a well-conditioned used car with about 100,000 miles. Such a model can be expected to last about another four years or so! On average, most Wheeling drivers clock 12,000 miles per year, so keep that in mind when comparing mileage vs. age.

Mileage vs. Age

In many cases, a newer car with higher mileage can be a better purchase than an older car with lower mileage. Along with considering mileage vs. age, points to keep in mind include:

• A vehicle that has remained idle for an extended period of time is likely to have accrued some mechanical issues. Problems with rubber seals and gaskets can lead to costly repairs.
• Strong service documentation is preferred over a spotty maintenance record.
• Low mileage vehicles are often more expensive.

If you prefer the savings of a used model while enjoying a like-new ride, a Certified Pre-Owned model is perfect for you.

Find Used Cars In Glen Dale Today

Now that you know that good mileage for a used car is just one of the many factors that must be taken into account when picking out a model, you can shop like a pro for your new-to-you ride. At Straub Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram near St. Clairsville, OH, we have a wide selection of used vehicles from all makes and models offered at competitive prices every day. What’s more, we provide rotating pre-owned vehicle specials to help our Moundsville customers save even more. Turn to us when looking for a good value in your automotive upgrade. Interested in a brand-new ride? Learn how to buy a new car with Straub Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today! Contact us to learn more about the services we offer.