What is Good Mileage on a Used Car?

Determining what is “good” mileage on a used car can be more complicated than you might think. While one driver in Darlington might prefer a certified model with few miles, a driver on a budget might prefer the savings of a higher mileage vehicle with an impeccable maintenance record. Modern cars are more durable than ever, so it’s not uncommon to find vehicles in Dillon with over 200,000 miles on the odometer! In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to establish “good mileage” for your used car, and how to weigh mileage against other factors at the dealership. 

What Factors Matter on the Used Market?

Sure, it’s a good idea to do some research on what “good” mileage on a used car is – in terms of the number on the odometer – but it’s also important to consider a range of other factors when shopping a used inventory. Here are just a few:

• Usage – Driving 50,000 miles on the highway is easier on a car than 50,000 miles in stop-and-go traffic – or 50,000 miles of heavy towing! Try to get the previous owner’s driving history if possible.
• Location – A dry, warm climate is also much easier on a car than a cold, wet climate. Depending on the climate, you might need to check closer for things like corrosion and water damage.
• Condition – We recommend finding a certified mechanic to inspect the vehicle. If they find minor issues, it’s not necessarily a dealbreaker, but you’ll need to factor the repair costs into your budget.
• Maintenance – A spotty maintenance history can be a red flag, because it means the car has not been inspected and fixed as needed. You might find expensive surprises after you make your purchase, so always prioritize a car with a good maintenance record.

Determining Good Mileage for a Used Car

In some ways, “good mileage” for a used car is a matter of your personal preferences, so there’s no definite right or wrong answer. Instead of focusing on what is good mileage on a used car, you can instead ask yourself, “How many miles does the car have left?” For example, a car with 100,000 miles might have another four years or so left. If this car is priced affordably and well-maintained, it could be a steal of a deal. But if you’re looking for a longer term commitment, a car with 50,000 miles might be perfect for you. Most Sumter drivers average around 12,000 miles per year, so keep that in mind during your calculations.

Mileage vs. Age 

You might be surprised to learn that a newer car with many miles may well be a better choice than a low-mileage older car. Why? 

• Cars perform the best when they are driven regularly. Mechanical issues can develop in vehicles that are rarely driven, and all of those cracked rubber seals and broken gaskets can lead to major repairs down the road.
• An older car in storage may have few miles, but also few trips to the service center. Prioritize vehicles with a well-documented maintenance history when possible.
• If you’re on a tight budget, low-mileage vehicles are almost always priced higher than higher-mileage options. If you shop smart, you can usually find a better deal.
• Prefer newer vehicles with lower miles? Don’t forget about certified pre-owned models. These vehicles are inspected and reconditioned, and they even come with a warranty.

Find Used Cars Near Sumter Today

Now that you know how to shop for your next used car, why not put these skills to use at Nissan of Florence? Our team can help you comb through our used inventory to find just the right vehicle. Contact us to get the ball rolling in Florence.