What is Good Mileage On a Used Car?

On top of assessing the physical and mechanical condition of a used vehicle, it’s also important to ask, “what is good mileage for a used car?” While you may have been told by other shoppers to stay away from used models over 100,000 miles, good mileage for used cars isn’t decided by the number of miles on the odometer. A well-maintained used car with higher mileage can still be a good buy for your Waterbury commutes. Learn more about what is good mileage on a used car and other factors to consider with Honda of Watertown, and settle into your daily trips in a model that fits your needs. 

What to Consider When Shopping for a New Car

How much mileage is good for a used car can vary depending on a number of factors. While looking at the mileage, you should also consider: 

• Usage – A vehicle that has driven 75,000 miles in stop-and-go traffic around Southbury will wear down quicker than one that has put on 75,000 miles on the open highway. Getting an idea of the previous owner’s driving history can key you in to whether a used model is good for your needs. 
• Location – Also consider where the car is coming from. Cold and wet weather will put more stress on vehicles than models driven mainly in dry, warm climates.
• Condition – Spring for the cost of a certified mechanic to inspect the vehicle. They can determine if there are any issues, like mechanical problems or rust, that will need to be addressed before purchasing. 
• Maintenance – Be sure to also get an idea of the maintenance performed on the vehicle. You’ll want to make sure that it has been kept up to date on routine services like oil changes, as irregular service can lead to more expensive issues in the future.

Evaluating Good Mileage for a Used Car

So, what is good mileage for a used car? There’s no perfect answer for that. “What is good mileage for a used car?” is best answered by considering how you’ll be driving around Torrington. Keep in mind that the typical driver puts on about 12,000 miles per year. When faced with a used car that has 50,000 miles that seems to be in good condition, you’ll find that it’s likely a good buy. However, a more affordable model with 100,000 miles can probably last you another four years, making it also a good option. Consider this as you decide what is good mileage on a used car. 

Weighing Mileage vs. Age

You may find that a new model with higher mileage is a better choice than an older car with low mileage. Be sure to keep these factors in mind: 

• While an older car may have low mileage, it can also mean that it hasn’t been driven regularly and can lead to higher repair costs. Vehicles that aren’t driven on a regular basis can experience mechanical issues or problems with rubber seals and gaskets. 
• A well-documented maintenance history should be valued higher than an inexpensive used car that has been neglected. 
• When you’re looking to conserve your budget, it’s low mileage vehicles that often come with a higher price tag. 

If you’re looking for a like-new vehicle with low mileage, it’s worth considering a Certified Pre-Owned model. 

Find a Pre-Owned Honda with Honda of Watertown!

If you have more questions about how much mileage is good for a used car, don’t hesitate to contact us at Honda of Watertown. For other tools to help you through the car buying process, take a look at our vehicle finder service to find the right vehicle for your Watertown commutes, or explore more financing tips on our financing and insurance information page.