What is Good Mileage on a Used Car?

Used Car Odometer

While looks and comfort are important when searching for the perfect used car, mileage is also an important factor to consider. The mileage tells a story about the vehicle. It will let you know how often it was driven and give you a gauge on the overall health of the vehicle. You’ll generally hear that a vehicle over 100,000 miles is a bad option, but that’s not always the case. A vehicle with high mileage and a near-perfect maintenance record is better than a low mileage vehicle that’s been poorly maintained. Learn more about good mileage for a used car with Lexus of Clearwater and check out our used vehicle inventory online. 

In addition to looking at a used car’s physical and mechanical condition, you’re also going to want to check the mileage. While most would suggest that you should shy away from a used car that has over 100,000 miles, that isn’t necessarily a hard and fast rule. If the vehicle has been taken care of and is well maintained it could still be a very good buy. Some important factors for St. Petersburg area drivers to consider when shopping for a pre-owned vehicle include condition, location, and usage. Learn more in this guide from Lexus of Clearwater.

How to Shop for a Used Car

When shopping for a used car in Belleair, there are a few things you should consider in addition to the mileage:

  • Usage – Get a copy of the previous owner’s driving history to see how the car was used. A car driven 75,000 miles in stop-and-go traffic will wear down sooner than one that has racked up 75,000 miles on the open highway. 
  • Condition – There are some things you can’t identify with an untrained eye. Take the vehicle you’re interested in to a certified mechanic to get a professional inspection. They can notify you of any issues the car may have so you can factor those repairs into your budget if you’re still interested in the vehicle. 
  • Maintenance – Check the maintenance history of the vehicle to ensure that it has been kept up to date on routine services like oil changes. Irregular service history can be a sign of expensive problems in the future.
  • Location – Climate has a large impact on a vehicle. Cars that have been driven in a locale that has a dry, warm climate, undergo less stress than vehicles from areas that have a cold, wet climate.

Choosing a Used Car Based on Mileage

There is no perfect way to answer, “what is good mileage on a used car?” There are many factors. However, it’s best to think about how much mileage you’ll get out of a used car. If a used car has 50,000 miles and seems to be working pretty well, then it’s likely a good buy. However, a cheap used car with 100,000 miles can probably last you another four years so long as it’s in decent condition. The typical driver clocks about 12,000 miles per year, so keep this in mind when comparing mileage vs. age.

Mileage vs. Age 

A newer car with high mileage may well be a better choice than a low-mileage older car. In general, a St. Petersburg driver puts on 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. Keep this in mind as you’re comparing mileage and age. Don’t forget to take these factors into account when buying:

  • A car that hasn’t been driven regularly will often have higher repair costs. Mechanical issues, or problems with rubber seals and gaskets, can develop if a car isn’t driven on a regular basis. 
  • A vehicle with a well-documented maintenance history is preferable to one that has been neglected. This can save you from additional repair costs or surprises. 
  • Low-mileage vehicles often come with a higher price tag. 

Find Used Cars Lexus of Clearwater Today!

Because there are so many factors to consider, there is no perfect way to answer, “what is good mileage on a used car?”. If you want a certified reliable vehicle, check out our certified pre-owned inventory. Remember, a well-maintained vehicle is better than a low-mileage one. Don’t forget to see what used vehicle specials are available! 

Used Lexus Inventory

Lexus of Clearwater 28.022675, -82.738037.