What is Good Mileage For A Used Car?

Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the conventional wisdom of 100,000 miles maximum is not applicable, especially for cars made after the turn of the century. Modern vehicles built with modern materials and regulations in mind tend to be much sturdier than what used vehicles were like decades ago, and that means that it can be a great idea to buy something with a higher mileage and thus cheaper price, if you know how to evaluate the car. Learn more from Tacoma Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram through this guide about how to find and evaluate used cars near Spanaway.

How to Shop for a Used Car

In addition to the mileage of a used car, these factors are at least as important:

• Usage – Highway miles are far easier on a vehicle driven bumper-to-bumper in the city. 
• Location – Warm and dry climates harm vehicles of all types far less than wet and cold climates. 
• Condition – Have a certified mechanic inspect the car or truck in question to find any potential issues. Figure this cost into your budget, as it’s worth it.
• Maintenance – Well maintained vehicles have well maintained service histories. Timely oil changes and other routine maintenance items are important to a vehicle’s health. Check the service history.

Selecting a Used Car Based on Mileage

What is “good” mileage on a used car? Depends on the car, frankly. As long as the model does not have any known design flaws, and has a good service history, buying a less than 15 year old car makes sense. Older than that, and you will start to see materials breaking down. Even then, you could still get several years out of that vehicle if need be. 

The Mileage vs. Age Difference

A newer car with high mileage could be better for you than a low-mileage older car, depending on how it was used. 

• A car that hasn’t been driven regularly will often have higher repair costs. Mechanical issues, or problems with rubber seals and gaskets, can develop if a car isn’t driven on a regular basis. 
• A vehicle with a well-documented maintenance history is preferable to one that has been neglected.
• Low mileage vehicles often come with a higher price tag. 

A certified pre-owned model combines the lower cost of a used vehicle with the warranty and confirmed reliability of a new car. If your budget allows for it, this is a great option.

Find Used and CPO Cars Near Puyallup Today

“Good” mileage for a used car does depend on the vehicle, and that’s why those without experience in finding used cars themselves could often use a hand. Here at Tacoma Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram we have that experience, and are more than willing to help out DuPont and Puyallup residents. Contact us today about our certified pre-owned specials!