What is Good Mileage on a Used Car?

One question we frequently hear at Midway Motors Chevrolet in McPherson is, “What is good mileage on a used car?” Good mileage for a used car can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. And while cars of the past used to struggle to hit 100,000 miles, it’s no longer unusual to find cars hitting 200,000 miles or more on the odometer! Find out what is considered low mileage on a used car, and learn what else you should factor into your used car shopping experience.

What Factors Matter When Car Shopping?

Low Mileage on a used car is great, but it’s not the only thing that matters when looking for your next vehicle. Here are some of the main factors to consider when shopping around Salina and Hutchinson:

• Usage – A car with 75,000 miles of stop-and-go city traffic will go through a lot more stress and strain than a car with 75,000 highway miles. Look into the previous owner’s driving history before buying to get a better idea of the car’s condition.
• Location – Location can also affect your vehicle’s longevity significantly. Dry, warm climates are much easier on a car than cold, wet climates.
• Condition – While your used car doesn’t have to be perfect, it pays to get an inspection by a certified mechanic. They can point out any issues you may miss, so you can factor those costs into your budget.
• Maintenance – If the car hasn’t been properly maintained, this can be a red flag. Always prioritize cars that have a long and regular maintenance history.

Choosing a Used Car Based on Mileage

Many Great Bend drivers want a straightforward answer to “What is good mileage on a used car?” However, the truth is that there are just too many differences between cars to come up with a number. Instead of focusing on good mileage for a used car, think about the remaining mileage on the car. A quality used car with 50,000 miles has plenty of life left. In fact, even a well-maintained car with 100,000 miles probably has around four years left in it – and you’ll probably get a great deal on it. Keep in mind that most drivers log approximately 12,000 miles per year.

Mileage vs. Age

Finally, don’t overlook the relationship between mileage and age. Low mileage on a used car can actually be a bad sign if the car is very old. Why?

• Cars perform at their best when driven regularly and maintained regularly. A car that sits unused will often develop issues with components like rubber seals and gaskets, which can be costly in the long run.
• If the car has a spotty maintenance record or no maintenance at all, then low mileage on a used car is not worth it for most drivers.
• Low mileage models have a higher price tag, so you might get a better deal for a vehicle that has been actively driven a little bit more.
• If low mileage is important to you, consider certified pre-owned options that offer like-new quality at a pre-owned price.

Explore Used Cars Near Mcpherson Today

We’ve gone over good mileage for a used car and the other factors that matter the most, so why not put those lessons to work? Visit Midway Motors Chevrolet in McPherson in Mcpherson to start shopping for your next vehicle or contact us with your questions. We’d love to help you find the perfect vehicle. In the meantime, feel free to explore more car buying tips!