Finding a Good Deal on Car Mileage 

One of the most crucial factors to consider is mileage. When deciding the overall value and longevity of your potential vehicle be sure to factor in mileage always. But what should you consider a “good deal” on car mileage? Here are some key points to help you better understand Mileage and what Mileage you should be searching for in a used car.  

Mileage Basics 

Mileage refers to the number of miles a car has been driven. Typically, the more miles the odometer reads, the more wear and tear the vehicle has experienced. This can impact the engine, transmission, suspension, and brakes, potentially affecting the reliability of the vehicle and may also lead to repair costs in the future. 

What is a “Good” Mileage? 

The definition of good mileage varies depending on: 

Age of the Car: An older car with high mileage might still be considered low compared to a newer vehicle with the same mileage.  

Highway vs city: Highway miles generally cause less wear than city miles. This is because of smoother driving conditions, therefore a car with higher highway mileage might be in better condition than a car with the same mileage but higher city mileage. 

Average per year: The average of miles driven per year is around 13,000 miles. So, a 6-year-old car with 78,000 miles may seem reasonable. However, a 4-year-old car that has 78,000 would seem unreasonable because that is an average of 19,500 miles per year.  

Price and Value 

Mileage is important, however it’s not the only factor that determines a car’s value. Other factors may include: 

Condition: Carefully inspecting the exterior and interior condition of a vehicle before you purchase it is crucial, as well as looking into the history of the vehicle (accidents, repairs, etc.) Here at Arbogast when a car is on our website, we include its history report through Carfax! Those reports include mileage, service records, accidents/damage reports, how many previous owners, and where it was last owned.  

Maintenance: Regardless of mileage, regular maintenance such as oil changes and timely repairs, can extend a car’s lifespan significantly. 

Demand: When there is a vehicle with high mileage but still has a higher price, this may be because the model is popular and in high demand.  This is reasonable if the vehicle is in good condition and has a reputation for reliability. 

How to find the Best Deal 

Research: Use online resources and tools to compare vehicles with similar mileage and determine which is going to be the best deal and the most reliable for you. 

Inspection: Have the vehicle inspected thoroughly before purchasing it to uncover any issues that you may be unaware of.  

Understanding the significance of mileage when purchasing a used car is crucial for assessing both its value and potential longevity. While there is no one-size-fits-all definition of what constitutes “good” mileage, factors such as the car’s age, usage (highway vs. city driving), and average annual mileage can greatly influence its condition and reliability.

When searching for a vehicle, it’s essential to consider not only the odometer reading but also its overall condition, maintenance history, and market demand. These factors collectively contribute to determining whether a car with higher mileage still represents a good deal, especially if it has been well-maintained and is in high demand.

At Arbogast, we prioritize transparency by providing comprehensive vehicle history reports through Carfax, which detail important information such as mileage, service records, and any accidents or damages. This empowers our customers to make informed decisions and ensures they receive a vehicle that meets their expectations for reliability and value.

Ultimately, conducting thorough research, comparing options, and having the vehicle inspected are crucial steps in finding the best deal on a car, regardless of its mileage. By taking these measures, you can confidently invest in a vehicle that suits your needs and provides reliable transportation for years to come.