What Is Good Mileage On A Used Car?

When you are searching the Denver market for a pre-owned ride, you will, of course, want to examine the physical condition, mechanical status, and mileage. So, what is good mileage on a used car? In the past, many would have said that good mileage for a used car means staying away from any model that has over 100,000 miles on the odometer.

However, with the recent advancements in automotive engineering and car care techniques, vehicles can run smoothly for many miles past the 100,000 mark. If a vehicle has been well-cared for, good mileage for a used car can vary. Find out what is good mileage on a used car and other important factors to keep in mind when shopping in Golden.

The Smart Way to Shop for a Used Car

Along with making note of the total number of miles on the odometer, you will want to consider a variety of other factors:

• Usage – The way a vehicle has been driven can say a lot about the condition. 75,000 miles of highway driving is much more forgiving than 75,000 miles of stop and go city traffic. Make sure you get to know the previous owner’s habits before you buy!
• Location – A model that comes from a cold, wet area may have more stress on its components than one from a dry and warm climate.
• Condition – Work with a trusted mechanic to determine if there are any underlying concerns with your intended upgrade. If any are detected, figure this into your budget.
• Maintenance – Explore the maintenance record of the vehicle. A model that is on track with its service record is likely in good condition and can offer a good value.

Choosing a Used Car Based on Mileage

Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer about good mileage for a used car. Each mile impacts vehicles differently, certain vehicles hold up better over time, and maintenance history can have a big impact. Rather than considering the miles that have already been accumulated, a good thing to focus on is the miles that the vehicle has left to give.

If you spot a model with 50,000 miles on it that is in good condition, you can rely on that car for many years to come. The same could be said for one with 100,000 miles or more. Many high-mileage cars can offer four to five years of reliable service at least. Typically, a driver will add 12,000 miles to their vehicle in a year, so keep that in mind when planning your enhancement.

Mileage vs. Age

Mileage is not a catch-all status indicator for vehicle condition. A newer car with higher mileage may be a better value than an older model with more miles. Consider the following when you are looking to buy:

• A vehicle that hasn’t been frequently used could have maintenance issues waiting to spring up. Mechanical issues, problems with seals and gaskets, and more can crop-up when a car is idle.
• Opt for a car with a well-documented service history whenever possible.
• Low mileage models often require a hefty investment.

If you want to enjoy a like-new model in Lakewood, you can save big by exploring our certified pre-owned lineup. Conversely, if you want a modest car bill, our models under $10k provide a prudent choice.

Find Used Cars In Golden

Now that you have come to realize that mileage is just one of a host of factors that must be examined when car shopping, you can upgrade like a pro. Our dealership is conveniently located near Arvada and is your one-stop-shop for all things auto. If you have any questions about buying pre-owned or the services we provide, contact us today!