How Many Miles Is Too Many for a Used Car?
One of the first things many shoppers look at when searching for a used car is the odometer.
But is there a specific mileage number that automatically makes a used car a bad purchase?
Not necessarily.
Mileage is important, but it is only one part of the equation.
The vehicle's maintenance history, age, condition, previous use and overall mechanical condition can be just as important.
Is 100,000 Miles Too Many?
A vehicle reaching 100,000 miles doesn't automatically mean it is at the end of its useful life.
Many modern vehicles can accumulate substantial mileage when properly maintained.
The more important question is:
How was the vehicle maintained?
A well-maintained vehicle with 110,000 miles may be a more attractive purchase than a poorly maintained vehicle with substantially fewer miles.
Maintenance Matters
Look for evidence of regular maintenance.
Depending on the vehicle, that can include:
Oil changes
Brake service
Tire replacement
Fluid changes
Battery replacement
Cooling system maintenance
Major scheduled services
Service records can help tell the story.
Check the Carfax
Age Matters Too
Mileage should be considered together with the vehicle's age.
For example, an older vehicle with unusually low mileage isn't automatically better.
A vehicle that sat unused for extended periods can have its own maintenance concerns.
How Was the Vehicle Used?
Consider how the vehicle was driven.
Highway miles can be different from constant stop-and-go city driving.
A pickup truck used for towing or heavy work may have experienced different wear than a similar truck primarily used for commuting.
Inspect the Vehicle's Condition
Look at the entire vehicle.
Consider:
Tires
Brakes
Suspension
Engine
Transmission
Interior
Exterior
Warning lights
Maintenance history
High Mileage Can Sometimes Mean Value
Higher-mileage vehicles can sometimes offer shoppers an opportunity to purchase a particular make, model or trim at a lower price than a lower-mileage example.
The important thing is to evaluate the specific vehicle.
Current Used Inventory in Crestwood
Champion Motorsports' inventory includes vehicles across a range of years and mileage levels, allowing shoppers to compare different vehicles rather than relying on mileage alone.
Browse our current used-car inventory and compare vehicles by year, price and mileage.
https://www.champmotorsports.com/
