What is Good Mileage on a Used Car?

In addition to looking at a used car's physical and mechanical condition, you'll also want to check the mileage. While most would suggest that you should shy away from a used carwith over 100,000 miles, that isn't necessarily a hard and fast rule. If the vehicle has been taken care of and is well-maintained it could still be a good buy. Some important factors for Dumas-area drivers to consider when shopping for a pre-owned vehicle include condition, location, and usage. Learn more in this guide from Street Volkswagen of Amarillo.

The Smart Way to Shop for a Used Car

When shopping for a used car there are some things you should look at in addition to the mileage:

• Usage — A car driven 75,000 miles in stop-and-go traffic will wear down sooner than one that has racked up 75,000 miles on the open highway. Make sure you get the previous owner's driving history before you buy.
• Location — Vehicles driven where the climate is mostly dry and warm undergo less stress than vehicles from areas that have a cold, wet climate.
• Condition — Get a certified mechanic to inspect the vehicle to determine if there are any issues, such as mechanical problems or rust, that need to be dealt with. Figure this cost into your budget.
• Maintenance — Check the vehicle's maintenance history to ensure that routine services like oil changes have been kept up to date. An irregular service history can be a sign of expensive problems in the future.

Choosing a Used Car Based on Mileage

There is no perfect way to answer, “What is good mileage on a used car?” There are many factors. However, it's best to think about how much mileage you'll get out of a used car. If a used car has 50,000 miles and working pretty well, it's likely a good buy. However, a cheap used car with 100,000 miles can probably last you another four years as long as it's in decent condition. The typical driver clocks about 12,000 miles per year, so keep this in mind when comparing mileage vs. age.

Mileage vs. Age

A newer car with high mileage may be a better choice than a low-mileage older car. Make sure to take these factors into account when buying:

• 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 vehicle isn't driven regularly.
• A vehicle with a well-documented maintenance history is preferable to a neglected one.
• Low-mileage vehicles often come with a higher price tag.

Find Used Cars Near Pampa Today!

There's more to consider than just the mileage when shopping for a used car. At Street Volkswagen of Amarillo, we have a wide selection of high-quality used vehicles for you to choose from. Check out our used vehicle specials to find some of the best deals available in the Hereford area, and please contact us in Amarillo if you have any questions.