what is good mileage for a used car

3 min read 15-04-2025

Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, but navigating the world of mileage can be tricky. What's considered "good" mileage depends heavily on several factors beyond just the numbers on the odometer. This guide will help you determine what's acceptable for different car types and ages, helping you make an informed purchase.

Factors Affecting "Good" Mileage

There's no magic number defining "good" mileage. It's relative and depends on several key factors:

1. Vehicle Age:

Older Cars (10+ years): Higher mileage is more common and acceptable. A car that's 15 years old with 150,000 miles might be perfectly fine, especially if well-maintained. However, exceeding 200,000 miles often signals the potential for more significant repairs.
Mid-Range Cars (5-10 years): Generally, mileage under 100,000 miles is considered good. Between 100,000 and 150,000 miles might still be acceptable, depending on the vehicle's history and condition.
Newer Cars (Less than 5 years): Mileage significantly below average for its age is ideal. Anything over 75,000 miles might raise some questions, unless it's a high-mileage vehicle type (like a taxi or delivery vehicle, which is usually specified).

2. Vehicle Type:

The type of vehicle also plays a significant role. A used sedan used for commuting will likely have more mileage than a weekend sports car. Consider these differences:

Sedans/Hatchbacks: These are frequently used for daily commutes and tend to accumulate higher mileage quicker.
SUVs/Trucks: Often used for longer trips or towing, but can still accumulate high mileage depending on usage.
Sports Cars/Luxury Cars: These often accumulate lower mileage due to their less frequent use.

3. Maintenance History:

Mileage is just one piece of the puzzle. A meticulously maintained car with 120,000 miles can be in better shape than a neglected car with only 60,000 miles. Always request a complete service history from the seller.

Image of car maintenance records

4. Driving Conditions:

Where the car was driven matters. Consistent highway driving is gentler on a car than stop-and-go city driving. City driving causes more wear and tear on components like brakes and transmission.

Average Mileage for Different Car Ages

Here's a general guideline, but remember that these are averages and individual circumstances vary:

Car Age (Years)	Average Mileage (Approximate)	Considered "Good" Mileage (Approximate)
1-2	15,000-30,000	Under 25,000
3-5	30,000-75,000	Under 60,000
6-10	75,000-150,000	Under 120,000
10+	150,000+	Under 150,000 (but condition is crucial)

Disclaimer: This table provides estimates; actual averages can vary based on region, vehicle type, and usage.

How to Evaluate Mileage Beyond the Numbers

Don't just look at the odometer reading. Investigate these aspects:

Comprehensive Inspection: Get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic. This is essential regardless of mileage.
Service Records: Request complete service records to see how well the car was maintained.
Test Drive: Take a thorough test drive to assess the car's performance and identify any potential issues.
Check for Accidents/Damage: Look for signs of prior accidents or bodywork repairs that could indicate underlying problems.

Conclusion: Focus on Condition, Not Just Mileage

While mileage is a factor, the overall condition of a used car is paramount. A lower-mileage car with neglected maintenance might be a worse buy than a higher-mileage car with a documented history of regular servicing. Prioritize a thorough inspection and careful evaluation to ensure you make a smart and safe purchase. Remember to always compare prices of similar vehicles with different mileage to get a better sense of the market value.