What is Good Mileage for a Used Car?

When Williston shoppers comb through the many used car listings, they tend to focus on condition and mileage. So, what is good mileage for a used car? What is considered “good mileage” for a used car can actually vary quite a bit. Back in the day, many shoppers wrote off any car with over 100,000 miles on the odometer. But now, cars are far more durable than before — and it’s not surprising to see well-maintained cars with over 200,000 miles! Find out how much mileage is good for a used car with Ryan Chevrolet, and start shopping for your next vehicle in Minot

What Factors Matter When Buying Used?

Before we dive into “What’s good mileage for a used car?”, it’s important to remember that each used vehicle is different. That’s why it’s important to look at the big picture when shopping around Williston. Here are some of the most important factors to weigh when choosing your next car:

• Usage – Not only should you ask how much mileage is good for a used car, but how has that car been used. A car driven 75,000 miles in stop and go traffic will wear down sooner than one that has 75,000 miles on the highway. Try to learn about the history of the car before you commit.
• Location – Climate can affect the wear and tear of the car as well. A dry, warm climate, is much less stressful than a cold, wet climate.
• Condition – While you should take a good look at any car you’re considering, we recommend getting a certified mechanic to inspect the vehicle as well. They can determine whether or not there are other issues you may be missing, so you can factor those repair costs into your budget.
• Maintenance – Beyond what’s good mileage for a used car, what’s the maintenance record of the car? An irregular service history might indicate issues down the line, so always prioritize a well-maintained vehicle over one without regular care.

What is a Good Mileage to Buy a Used Car?

So, what is a good mileage to buy a used car? There’s no clear cut answer, because what’s good mileage for one used car may be different than the other. Instead of thinking about how many miles the car has on the odometer, think about how many miles are left. 

A well-maintained car with 50,000 miles may have plenty of life left in it. And in fact, a car with 100,000 miles in good condition might have four or so years left for your New Town travels — and you’ll probably pay quite a bit less. When considering how much mileage is good for a used car, remembered that most Belcourt drivers travel around 12,000 miles per year.

What about Mileage vs. Age?

Determining what is a good mileage to buy a used car is also complicated by another factor: the car’s age. Take a look at a few scenarios:

• An old car with very low mileage might actually have issues from not being driven sufficiently. Rubber seals and gaskets can start to break down if the car isn’t used routinely, and that can lead to higher repair costs.
• Always prioritize a car with a well-documented maintenance history over one that has been neglected. Maintenance is key to keeping your car in great shape for the long run.
• Low mileage cars are often more expensive, so if you’re on a budget, you might want to prioritize maintenance history and condition over pure mileage.
• For like-new vehicles with low mileage, don’t forget to check out Certified Pre-Owned options. They even come with a warranty for extra peace of mind.

Explore Used Models at Ryan Chevrolet

We’ve gone through the basics of used car mileage, but if you still have questions, we’d love to help. Contact us at Ryan Chevrolet to find out all about your options, and stop by our dealership for a test drive in Minot.