What Is Good Mileage On A Used Car?

When shopping for a used car around Houma and Thibodaux, what should you consider? In addition to the condition and appearance of the vehicle, what is good mileage on a used car? The answer isn’t so clear cut these days. In the past, cars with over 100,000 miles on the odometer were considered past their prime. But now, it’s common to find cars with well over 200,000 miles, and plenty of life left! Learn more about the factors to consider while shopping for your next vehicle, and find out what is considered good mileage for a used car.

What Factors Matter in a Used Car?

Determining what is good mileage on a used car is just part of the package. When searching for your next car, it’s important to weigh the following factors:

• Usage – City driving is harder on a car than highway miles due to the frequent stops. A city car with 75,000 miles in stop and go Lafayette traffic will probably not last as long as one that has racked up 75,000 miles of highway driving.
• Location – Extreme temperatures are harder on cars than mild climates, and humidity can also cause issues. Try to learn about the owner’s driving history if possible.
• Condition – While you can and should inspect the car yourself, a certified mechanic can help you determine if there are any issues that you might miss – such as mechanical problems or rust. Figure the cost of repairs into your budget.
• Maintenance – A well-maintained vehicle will last longer than a neglected car, so try to get the service history of any vehicle you consider. Spotty service history might indicate mechanical problems down the line.

Good Mileage for a Used Car

Why is it so hard to determine good mileage for a used car? Mileage reflects how many miles have been driven, but we prefer to think about how many miles are left. So if you find a car with 50,000 miles in good shape, that’s probably a good choice if it fits you budget. But if you’re on a tight budget, a well-maintained car with 100,000 miles might be a good bargain. It may run for four more years if it’s in good condition, and you could save a lot of money by choosing a cheaper model. Keep in mind that most drivers log around 12,000 miles per year when trying to work out the potential lifespan of your next car.

Mileage vs. Age

Don’t forget to consider the age of the car when looking at the mileage. A newer car with more miles may actually be a better buy than an older car with fewer miles. Why?

• Cars work the best when they are driven regularly. Mechanical issues, like problems with rubber seals and gaskets, can occur when a car sits in a garage for long periods of time.
• A well-documented maintenance history should move a vehicle to the top of your list over a neglected model.
• Lower mileage cars may have their perks, but they almost always carry a higher price tag than higher mileage models. If you want a low mileage car with extra assurances, consider a Certified Pre-Owned model.

Start Shopping at Morgan City Toyota

We’ve gone over the basics, now put your new knowledge to work. Take a look at our pre-owned vehicle inventory at Morgan City Toyota, and let our experts help you find just the right car at just the right price. Contact us today to get started!