What is Good Mileage on a Used Car?

Customers around Denham Springs and Hammond often have plenty of questions about used car mileage. What is considered good mileage for a used car? What is the best gas mileage for used cars? That depends on a number of factors. While cars of the past didn’t last past 100,000 miles or so, modern vehicles are incredibly durable and safe. It’s no longer surprising to find vehicles with 200,000 or more miles on the odometer in Gonzales! So, what is a good mileage on a used car these days? We’ll walk you through some considerations, so you can shop for your next car with confidence.

The Smart Way to Shop for a Used Car

Good mileage for a used car can vary. A higher mileage car in great condition will be a better buy than a low mileage car that’s been neglected in storage. So here are some of the factors to keep in mind:

• Usage – How was the car driven in its previous life? A car with 75,000 miles in stop-and-go traffic will have more wear and tear than a car with 75,000 miles on the open highway.
• Location – Where was the car driven primarily? A dry, warm climate is far less stressful than a cold, wet climate.
• Condition – What is the car’s condition? If possible, get a certified mechanic to inspect the vehicle. If any problems are found, try to work the cost of the repairs into your budget. Some problems are easy to resolve, while others are much more expensive.
• Maintenance – What is the car’s maintenance history? An irregular service history can hide potential mechanical problems, so always prioritize a car with a well-documented history of proper maintenance.

Choosing a Used Car Based on Mileage

Determining what is good mileage on a used car is complicated because it’s important to think about the big picture. Instead of thinking about how many miles the car has on the odometer, think about how many miles it has left. Remember that the average driver logs around 12,000 miles per year. That means that a well-maintained car with 100,000 miles might have another four years of use – which might be perfect for a college student or a driver on a tight budget.

Mileage vs. Age

When shopping around Gonzales for low mileage used cars, another factor to consider is the mileage vs. age of the vehicle. An older car with few miles could be a good buy, but it could also be a risk. Here are the reasons why:

• Cars perform the best when driven and maintained regularly. A car in storage can develop mechanical issues, like broken rubber seals and gaskets, and these issues can be expensive.
• Even if a car has been driven minimally, it still needs regular oil changes and maintenance. Components break down over time, so make sure the vehicle has been inspected and serviced over time.
• If you’re looking for a low-mileage car with extra reassurances, consider shopping our Certified Pre-Owned models. These are like-new cars that have been reconditioned and inspected, and they even include a warranty package.

Shop Baton Rouge Low Mileage Used Cars at Ralph Sellers Chevrolet

Want to know more car shopping tips? Visit Ralph Sellers Chevrolet to chat with our experts or contact us at any time. We can help you determine the best options for your driving needs, and we’d be happy to introduce you to our used car inventory at your convenience.