Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, but only if you know what you’re looking for. One question buyers consistently ask is how many miles is good for a used car? Odometer readings matter because they hint at a vehicle’s history, future reliability, and potential repair costs. Yet the answer isn’t as simple as picking a number and sticking to it.
Let’s unpack what mileage means for a car, when it should worry you, and when it might not be a dealbreaker at all.
Why Used Car Mileage Matters
Mileage gives you a sense of how much wear and tear a car has experienced. Typically, the higher the mileage, the more parts that have worn down or been replaced. It affects everything from engine performance to suspension life and resale value.
However, and this is key, not all miles are created equal. A car with 100,000 miles of smooth highway driving might be in better shape than a 60,000-mile car that’s endured pothole-riddled city streets and stop-and-go traffic.
What’s the Average Mileage for a Used Car?
On average, a car in the United States is driven about 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. This means a 5-year-old vehicle with around 60,000 to 75,000 miles would be considered normal.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s generally considered “good” mileage:
| Car Age | Good Mileage Range |
| 1-3 years | 0 – 36,000 miles |
| 4-5 years | 36,000 – 75,000 miles |
| 6-9 years | 75,000 – 120,000 miles |
| 10+ years | Under 150,000 miles (if well maintained) |
As a rule of thumb, the lower the mileage, the better, as long as it’s been driven regularly and serviced properly.
When High Mileage Isn’t a Dealbreaker
Contrary to popular belief, a high-mileage car isn’t automatically a poor choice. Thanks to improvements in vehicle engineering and materials, many modern vehicles, especially those from brands like Toyota, Honda, and Subaru, regularly surpass 200,000 miles if they’ve been maintained well.
A well-cared-for car with 120,000 miles can sometimes be a better buy than a poorly maintained one with 60,000 miles. Here’s what to look for:
- Complete maintenance records
- Mostly highway driving history
- One or two previous owners
- Recent replacement of major wear items (like timing belts or brakes)
Automobile Actual Cash Value and Mileage
Understanding a vehicle’s automobile actual cash value (ACV) is crucial when shopping for a used car. ACV is the market value of the car based on its age, mileage, condition, and location. The higher the mileage, the lower the ACV unless the car has upgrades or a pristine service history.
For instance, if you find a car with 100,000 miles but brand-new tires, a fresh transmission, and a spotless record, it might be worth more than a lower-mileage car that’s been neglected.
Pro Tip: Always compare the asking price against the automobile actual cash value using valuation tools like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or NADA Guides before making an offer.
Highway Miles vs. City Miles
Not all miles wear a car down equally. Highway miles are generally easier on a car than city miles because they involve less braking, idling, and stop-start driving. Highway driving keeps the engine at a steady temperature and reduces strain on the brakes and transmission.
When buying a used car, ask the seller about their typical driving habits. A 110,000-mile car with mostly highway miles might be a better buy than a 75,000-mile car driven only in city traffic.
Mileage by Vehicle Type
Different types of vehicles age differently. Here’s a quick guide:
- Sedans & Hatchbacks: Typically reliable up to 150,000 miles with good maintenance.
- SUVs & Crossovers: Can last 180,000+ miles, but check for wear on suspension and drivetrain.
- Pickup Trucks: These are known to exceed 200,000 miles, especially from Ford, Toyota, or Chevrolet.
- Luxury Cars: May be less reliable at higher mileage due to expensive electronics and repairs.
Mileage vs. Condition
Mileage matters, but condition matters more. A lower-mileage car might still be a bad deal if it’s been in multiple accidents or neglected. Always:
- Check for rust or frame damage.
- Inspect tire wear patterns.
- Examine the interior for excessive wear.
- Run a vehicle history report.
- Get a trusted mechanic’s inspection.
A condition paired with reasonable mileage is the sweet spot for reliable used cars.
When Is Mileage Too High?
So, at what point should you walk away? While it depends on the car brand and how well it’s been cared for, generally:
- 150,000 miles is often the limit for buyers who want peace of mind.
- 180,000+ miles should only be considered for specific models known for exceptional longevity.
If the price reflects the mileage, and the car has an impeccable maintenance record, it might still be worth a closer look.
Pro Tip for Used Car Buyers
If you’re shopping for a used commuter car, consider this guide to the best used commuter car options. Reliable vehicles with excellent fuel economy and lower ownership costs are ideal for daily driving and often hold up well even at higher mileages.
Stay Informed on Market Trends
As vehicle prices and availability fluctuate, it’s smart to stay updated on reliable resources. According to Consumer Reports, brands like Toyota, Lexus, and Mazda consistently rank high for long-term reliability, making their higher-mileage vehicles safer bets than others.
To Conclude
To sum it up, how many miles is good for a used car? Ideally, under 100,000 miles if you want minimal risk, but up to 150,000 miles is fine for certain brands and well-maintained vehicles. Mileage is important, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Always consider the car’s condition, service records, ownership history, and automobile actual cash value before making your decision.
A high-mileage car that’s been cared for might outlast a low-mileage car that’s been neglected. Balance the numbers with common sense and a little homework, and you’ll drive away with a car that’s worth every mile.
