What is Good Mileage for a Used Car? A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding "Good Mileage" for a Used Car

When evaluating the quality of a used car, one of the primary metrics to consider is mileage. Mileage, along with condition and maintenance history, plays a crucial role in assessing the overall value of a car. But what constitutes "good mileage" for a used car? While a lower mileage figure might often seem ideal, it isn’t always the definitive indicator of vehicle quality. Several factors, including the vehicle's maintenance, condition, and even the type of miles driven, influence what qualifies as a good mileage. Let's explore these aspects in greater detail to help guide your decision.

Average Mileage for a Used Car: What to Expect?

On average, Americans drive around 11,500 miles annually. Before the pandemic, this number was closer to 14,300 miles per year. However, changes in commuting habits have led to slightly lower figures, particularly due to remote work. Knowing these benchmarks can help you determine whether the car you're interested in has below-average, average, or above-average mileage. For instance, if you're looking at a five-year-old car, average mileage would be around 57,500 miles (11,500 miles per year). A significantly higher or lower reading can give you valuable insights into how the car has been used.

Is a Low-Mileage Vehicle Always Better?

In general, low mileage is considered a positive attribute for a used car, but this does not automatically mean the car is a better option. For example, consider two identical 2019 Honda Civics: one with 34,000 miles and the other a certified pre-owned (CPO) with 58,000 miles. The CPO car might have better maintenance records, newer tires, and a clean accident history compared to the lower mileage car, which may lack service records and have a history of accidents. In this scenario, the higher-mileage vehicle could be the better choice, emphasizing that condition and maintenance are equally, if not more, important than mileage alone.

City Miles vs. Highway Miles: What Difference Do They Make?

Another consideration when looking at used car mileage is the type of miles accumulated—city versus highway miles. Highway driving generally causes less wear and tear on a car because it's consistent and steady, with fewer stops compared to city driving. A car that has spent most of its life on the highway will have experienced less strain on components like the brakes, transmission, and clutch compared to a car that's done predominantly city miles. Therefore, a higher-mileage car with mostly highway use could be in better condition than a lower-mileage car used primarily in city conditions.

Should High Mileage Be a Dealbreaker?

The 100,000-mile mark has long been seen as a threshold that many buyers hesitate to cross. However, modern vehicles are built to last well beyond this milestone. According to the Wall Street Journal, the average car on American roads today is about 12.1 years old and has covered over 151,000 miles. Many contemporary vehicles can comfortably reach 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more, provided they are well-maintained. Therefore, high mileage should not be an immediate dealbreaker; it should simply prompt further investigation into the car's maintenance history and overall condition.

The Vital Role of Maintenance in Evaluating Mileage

Maintenance is the single most important factor in determining whether a used car will provide reliable service, regardless of its mileage. A meticulously maintained car with high mileage may be more reliable than a low-mileage car with a poor maintenance record. Ideally, when buying a used car, you want to see a stack of maintenance receipts that prove regular servicing. Many automakers like BMW, Hyundai, and Jeep offer maintenance packages that cover the first few years of ownership, which can be a good indicator of early care. Without proper maintenance, a car’s mileage is less meaningful as a quality gauge.

Depreciation and Mileage: Understanding Value Loss

Depreciation is significantly affected by mileage, but its impact varies across car models. Let’s take a few examples:

• BMW 320i xDrive: A 2018 model with 20,000 miles is valued at $29,166, while the same model with 60,000 miles drops to $24,450—a 16% decline in value.
• Toyota Highlander XLE AWD: A popular choice, the 2018 model at 20,000 miles is valued at $36,994, but only drops by 8% to $33,971 when it reaches 60,000 miles, showcasing its reputation for durability and slow depreciation.
• Ford F-150 Platinum SuperCrew 4WD: This truck maintains much of its value, depreciating only by 11% from $53,616 at 20,000 miles to $47,850 at 60,000 miles.
• Nissan Leaf SV: The 2018 model shows a 14% depreciation from $21,506 at 20,000 miles to $18,462 at 60,000 miles. This indicates that electric vehicles may see higher depreciation rates, likely due to battery wear and concerns about long-term range.

The differences in depreciation highlight that some cars hold their value better despite mileage, while others depreciate more quickly. This information can be crucial when determining the value of a used car.

MotorVero's Take on Mileage and Vehicle Quality

MotorVero understands that mileage is just one piece of the puzzle when evaluating a used car. While a lower odometer reading can suggest less wear, it is crucial to consider the car's full story, including how it was maintained and what kind of driving conditions it endured. MotorVero helps users by providing comprehensive car histories and access to tools that assess both maintenance records and the types of miles driven, making the purchasing process more transparent and reliable.

Additional Tips for Evaluating Used Car Mileage

• Get a Vehicle History Report: Always check a car's history to identify any red flags, such as past accidents or skipped maintenance.
• Inspect Maintenance Records: Regular fluid changes and part replacements are key indicators of a car that's been well taken care of.
• Consider Vehicle Type: SUVs, trucks, and other vehicles designed for heavy use may have higher acceptable mileage compared to smaller commuter cars.
• Factor in Depreciation: Some models hold their value better despite high mileage. Researching depreciation trends can help you make a more financially sound decision.

Final Thoughts: Mileage Matters, But It’s Not Everything

When it comes to purchasing a used car, mileage is undoubtedly a critical consideration, but it shouldn’t be the only one. Maintenance records, condition, type of miles driven, and even the vehicle make and model can significantly impact the value and longevity of a used car. Through MotorVero, you can get the comprehensive information you need, including detailed history reports and expert insights, to ensure you make the best possible decision.