Used Car Mileage Guide How Much is Too Much for a Used Car

Ultimate Guide: How Many Miles is Good for a Used Car to Buy Right Now?

Finding a sweet deal on a ride is a total thrill. You want a car that runs great without breaking your bank account. Many folks ask exactly how many miles is good for a used car when they start shopping. There is no single magic number that fits every driver out there. You have to look at the whole picture to find the best value. Modern cars are built much tougher than the old clunkers from years ago. This guide will help you spot a gem and skip the lemons easily.

Mileage tells you part of the story about a car’s life on the road. It represents the total wear and tear the engine has faced over time. However, a high number on the dash does not always mean a car is junk. Some cars with high mileage were actually babied by their previous owners. We will dive deep into what makes a used car a smart buy today.

Table of Contents

What Is Good Mileage for a Used Car?

Defining what is good depends heavily on how the car was built and kept. In the past, people thought a car was done once it hit a certain point. Nowadays, automotive technology has improved the durability of almost every vehicle. A car with 80,000 miles might still have half of its life left to go. You should focus on how those miles were put on the vehicle.

The perception of what is “worn out” has shifted quite a bit lately. Engineers use better materials and lubricants to keep engines humming for a long time. You can find plenty of reliable rides that have already crossed the six-figure mark. It is all about balancing the odometer reading with the price you pay. A high-mileage car at a low price can be a total steal for you.

  • Engineering Quality: Modern cars use better parts that handle heat and friction much better than older models.
  • Maintenance Levels: A car that got regular oil changes will always outlast a neglected low-mileage car.
  • Owner Habits: How the previous owner drove the car impacts its current mechanical health significantly.

The Average Annual Mileage Benchmark

Most people use a simple benchmark to see if a car was driven too much. The industry standard is usually around 12,000 miles per year for the average driver. If a five-year-old car has 60,000 miles, it is right on the money for average use. You can use this math to see if a deal is actually fair. It helps you spot cars that were used for long commutes or delivery work.

Calculating how many miles is good for a used car is simple math you can do. Just take the total number on the dash and divide it by the car’s age. This gives you the annual average for that specific vehicle. If the number is way over 15,000, the car might have been worked pretty hard. If it is under 10,000, you might have found a “low-mileage” sweetheart.

  • Standard Usage: Expect about 10,000 to 12,000 miles for every year the car has been on the road.
  • Low Usage: Anything under 8,000 miles per year is considered light use by most experts.
  • High Usage: Vehicles that clear 15,000 miles a year are often used for work or very long trips.

Is 100,000 Miles Still the Cutoff?

Back in the day, 100,000 miles felt like a death sentence for a car. People would trade them in quickly before they fell apart completely. Today, hitting 100k is more like a mid-life milestone for many vehicles. You don’t need to be scared of a car just because it has six digits on the dash. Many cars are just getting warmed up at that point if they were treated right.

Synthetic oils and better engine designs have changed the game for everyone. Parts stay lubricated longer and don’t wear down as fast as they used to. You can find many cars with 120,000 miles that still drive like they are brand new. Don’t let a round number on the odometer scare you away from a great deal. Look at the maintenance history to see if the car was truly loved.

Brand Reliability and Longevity

Some car brands are just built different when it comes to lasting a long time. You have likely heard that certain makes can go forever without major issues. When asking how many miles is good for a used car, the brand matters a lot. A Toyota or Honda with 150,000 miles is often a safer bet than other brands. These companies focus on making engines that just won’t quit on you.

Reliability varies between manufacturers because of how they design their parts. Some luxury brands might be flashy but cost a fortune to fix after 80,000 miles. Meanwhile, a basic GMC or Ford truck might chug along until 300,000 miles with basic care. It is smart to research which brands have the best track record for high mileage. Picking a sturdy brand gives you more confidence when the odometer is high.

  • Top Tier Reliability: Toyota and Honda are famous for hitting 200,000 miles without breaking a sweat.
  • Rugged Performance: Brands like GMC and Chevrolet often build trucks that handle very high mileage well.
  • Luxury Trade-offs: Some high-end European cars may require very expensive repairs as they get older.

High Mileage vs. Low Mileage: Pros and Cons

Choosing between high and low mileage is a classic car-buying struggle. High-mileage cars usually come with a much smaller price tag for you. This allows you to get a nicer model or a cooler trim level for less cash. You also won’t deal with the massive depreciation that hits new cars. However, you have to be ready for more frequent trips to the mechanic.

Low-mileage cars feel fresh and usually have very little wear on the inside. They often still have that new car smell and very few scratches. You get peace of mind knowing the parts haven’t been stressed much. The downside is that you will pay a much higher premium for that low number. It is a trade-off between saving money now or saving on repairs later.

  • High Mileage Perks: You get a lower purchase price and usually lower insurance costs every month.
  • High Mileage Risks: Expect to replace parts like alternators, water pumps, or suspension bits sooner.
  • Low Mileage Perks: The car usually looks pristine and has a much longer life ahead of it.
  • Low Mileage Risks: You might pay a lot more upfront for a car that still needs regular maintenance.

The Risks of Ultra-Low Mileage (The Garage Queen Exception)

You might think a 10-year-old car with only 10,000 miles is a perfect find. This is what some car fans call a “Garage Queen”. While it looks great, cars are actually designed to be driven regularly. If a vehicle sits for years, the rubber parts can get brittle and dry out. This can lead to leaks and electrical gremlins that are hard to fix.

Fluid systems in a car need to circulate to keep everything working right. When a car sits, gaskets can shrink and the battery can lose its ability to hold a charge. You might find that a car with “too few” miles ends up being a headache. It is often better to find a car that was driven moderately and serviced often. Always ask why the mileage is so low before you jump on the deal.

  • Brittle Seals: Rubber gaskets and hoses can crack if they aren’t lubricated by running fluids.
  • Fluid Degradation: Oil and brake fluid can collect moisture or break down even if the car isn’t moving.
  • Tire Flat Spots: Tires that sit in one spot for months can develop permanent flat spots and dry rot.

Factors Beyond the Odometer

The odometer is just one piece of the puzzle when you shop for a ride. You need to look at the “hidden” factors that affect how many miles is good for a used car. Two cars with the same mileage can be in totally different conditions. One could be a total peach while the other is a ticking time bomb. You have to investigate the car’s history to know for sure.

Think of the odometer like a person’s age; it doesn’t tell you how healthy they are. You need to know if the car lived a rough life or a pampered one. Checking the vehicle history report is the first step in this process. It shows you accidents, title issues, and where the car spent its time. This info is worth its weight in gold when you are spending big bucks.

Highway vs. City Miles

Highway vs. City Miles

How a car was driven is often more important than how far it went. Highway miles are generally much easier on a vehicle’s vital organs. On the highway, the engine stays at a steady temperature and the transmission stays in one gear. There is very little shifting and much less braking involved. A car with 100,000 highway miles might be in better shape than a city car with 50,000 miles.

City driving is a whole different story for a used car. Stop-and-go traffic puts a ton of stress on the brakes and the transmission. Every time the car idles at a light, the engine is still running even if the miles aren’t ticking up. This creates more wear per mile than cruising on the open road. Try to find out if the previous owner had a long highway commute.

  • Highway Benefits: Less wear on the clutch, brakes, and transmission due to steady speeds.
  • City Drawbacks: Frequent shifting and heavy braking lead to faster component wear.
  • Engine Stress: City cars idle more, which means the engine has more “run time” than the odometer shows.

Ownership and Maintenance History

Ownership and Maintenance History

A car with a stack of service records is a buyer’s dream. It shows the owner actually cared about the vehicle’s longevity. You want to see regular oil changes and scheduled maintenance performed on time. A high-mileage car with perfect records is often a safer buy than a low-mileage car with none. Consistency is the secret sauce for making a car last a long time.

The number of people who owned the car also matters quite a bit. A single-owner car is usually a better bet than one that changed hands five times. People who keep cars for a long time tend to maintain them better. They have a vested interest in keeping the ride reliable for themselves. Multiple owners can mean that maintenance was skipped as each person passed the car along.

  • Single Owner: These cars usually have the most complete service histories and consistent care.
  • Service Logs: Look for proof of oil changes, tire rotations, and major fluid flushes.
  • Rental History: Former rentals often have high miles but follow a very strict maintenance schedule.

The Role of Geography and Climate on Mileage

The Role of Geography and Climate on Mileage

Where a car spent its life can change how it handles high mileage. Cars from the “Rust Belt” face harsh winters and salted roads every year. Salt is a nightmare for metal and can cause the frame to rot away. A car with low mileage from a snowy state might have more structural damage than a high-mileage southern car. You should always look underneath the vehicle with a flashlight.

Hot climates have their own set of challenges for aging vehicles. Intense sun can crack the dashboard and ruin the paint’s clear coat. High heat also makes rubber belts and hoses wear out faster than usual. Coastal cars might deal with salty air that corrodes electrical connections over time. Knowing the car’s “hometown” helps you predict what might break next.

  • Snowy Regions: Check for heavy rust on the frame, exhaust, and brake lines.
  • Desert Climates: Look for faded paint, cracked interior plastics, and brittle engine bay rubber.
  • Coastal Areas: Inspect for “bubbling” paint and corrosion on battery terminals or wire harnesses.

Technology and Safety Milestones by Mileage

Mileage isn’t just about the engine; it is also about the tech inside. A high-mileage newer car might have better safety features than a low-mileage older one. Features like backup cameras and blind-spot monitoring became standard fairly recently. If safety is your top priority, a 2020 model with 100k miles might be better than a 2010 with 40k. You get more modern protection for your family.

Digital screens and sensors also have a lifespan to consider. High-mileage cars have spent more time with the electronics powered on. Touchscreens can become less responsive or fail after years of heavy use. Advanced driver systems rely on cameras and radar that can be expensive to recalibrate. Consider if you are okay with older tech in exchange for a lower odometer reading.

  • Active Safety: Look for cars with automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist.
  • Infotainment: Check if the screen works smoothly and if it supports Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • LED Lighting: Modern headlights last longer and provide better visibility for night driving.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Hybrid Mileage

Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Hybrid Mileage

Buying a used EV or hybrid changes the rules for how many miles is good for a used car. You don’t have to worry about oil changes or spark plugs in a full EV. The biggest concern is the health of the high-voltage battery pack. Batteries naturally lose some capacity as they age and go through charge cycles. You should ask for a battery health report before you buy a used electric ride.

Hybrids are a mix of both worlds and are known for being very tough. They use regenerative braking, which means the traditional brakes can last much longer. The gasoline engine in a hybrid also runs less often than in a standard car. This means 100,000 miles on a hybrid might mean only 60,000 miles of actual engine wear. Hybrids are often some of the best high-mileage values on the market.

  • Battery SOH: The “State of Health” tells you how much original range the battery still has.
  • Regen Braking: Hybrid and EV brake pads often last twice as long as normal gas cars.
  • Electric Motors: These parts have very few moving pieces and rarely fail even at high mileage.

Financing and Insurance Implications

High mileage can affect more than just the car’s health; it hits your wallet too. Many banks have strict limits on how old or “used” a car can be for a loan. It can be harder to get a low-interest rate on a car with over 100,000 miles. Some lenders won’t even touch a car once it hits 125,000 or 150,000 miles. You might need to bring more cash to the table for an older high-mileage ride.

Insurance companies also look at the odometer when setting your rates. A car with very high mileage has a lower total value, which might lower your collision premium. However, it might also be closer to being “totaled” after a small fender bender. If repair costs exceed the car’s low value, the insurance company will just write it off. Always get an insurance quote before you finalize your used car purchase.

  • Loan Restrictions: Check with your credit union about mileage caps for used car financing.
  • Gap Insurance: Be careful about owing more than a high-mileage car is actually worth.
  • Total Loss Risk: High-mileage cars are easier to “total” because their market value is lower.

How Mileage Affects Value and Pricing

The odometer is the biggest driver of a car’s price in the used market. Generally, the price drops as the mileage goes up. This creates a “sweet spot” for buyers who want a bargain. You can often save thousands of dollars just by picking a car with 20,000 more miles. It is a powerful tool you can use during negotiations at the dealership.

Smart shoppers look at the depreciation curve for the specific model they want. Some cars lose value quickly at first but then level off. Buying a car after the biggest price drop saves you the most money. You get a reliable machine without paying the “new car tax”. Just make sure the price reflects the higher number of miles on the dash.

  • Price Negotiation: Use the high mileage to ask for a better deal or a lower interest rate.
  • Resale Value: Remember that when you sell the car later, its high mileage will also lower its value.
  • Trade-in Power: Low-mileage cars always fetch a better price if you decide to trade them in later.

How Many Miles Are Too Many?

Most experts agree that 200,000 miles is a major threshold for any car. While many can go further, this is where big repairs become more common. You have to weigh the cost of a new transmission against the car’s total value. If a $3,000 repair hits a $2,000 car, it is usually time to move on. Every car has a point where it is no longer worth fixing.

Once a car hits 150,000 miles, you should expect to spend more on annual maintenance. Parts like the alternator, starter, and fuel pump might start to fail. If you aren’t handy with a wrench, these costs can add up fast at a shop. However, if the car was legendary for its build quality, it might still have life left. Trust your gut and the inspection results more than the number.

  • The 200k Limit: This is usually the point where most vehicles are considered “high risk” for buyers.
  • Repair Math: Stop fixing the car when the annual repairs cost more than a year of car payments.
  • Safety First: Ensure the frame and safety systems are still solid on very old, high-mileage rides.

How Many Miles Are Too Little?

We talked about “Garage Queens,” but how do you know if a low number is legit? You must verify the odometer accuracy with a history report. Sometimes, dishonest sellers might try to roll back the odometer to trick you. If a car looks completely beat up but has “low miles,” something is probably wrong. The physical condition should always match the number on the dash.

Look for wear on parts that the driver touches every single day. A car with 20,000 miles should not have a torn seat or a worn-down steering wheel. If the rubber on the brake pedal is completely gone, that car likely has many more miles than it shows. Use your eyes and your common sense to spot these red flags. A true low-mileage car should look and feel nearly brand new inside.

  • Odometer Fraud: Check the history report for any “mileage discrepancies” in the past.
  • Interior Clues: Heavily worn seats or pedals are signs of a car that was driven more than claimed.
  • Logbook Gaps: Long periods with no recorded service or mileage updates can be suspicious.

Common Repairs at Specific Mileage Intervals

Every car has a “to-do list” based on its mileage. Around 60,000 to 90,000 miles, many cars need a new timing belt. This is a big job that can cost a lot if you ignore it. If the belt snaps, it can destroy the whole engine in seconds. Always ask if this major service was already done on a car in this range.

Once you hit 100,000 to 120,000 miles, the suspension often needs some love. Shocks and struts might get bouncy or start leaking oil. You might also need new spark plugs or a transmission fluid flush to keep things smooth. Buying a car right after these jobs are done is a huge win for you. It means the previous owner spent the money so you don’t have to.

  • Timing Belt: Usually needs replacement every 70k to 100k miles on many engines.
  • Spark Plugs: Most modern cars need fresh plugs every 100k miles for best fuel economy.
  • Suspension: Listen for clunks or rattles when driving a car with over 100k miles.

The Critical Role of Professional Inspections

The Critical Role of Professional Inspections

Never buy a used car without having a pro look at it first. A pre-purchase inspection is the best money you will ever spend. A skilled mechanic can find leaks or rust that you might miss in the driveway. They can plug in a scanner to see if any hidden error codes are lurking in the computer. This gives you the full truth about the car’s mechanical health.

A good inspection includes a detailed test drive to check the engine performance. The mechanic will listen for weird noises and feel how the transmission shifts. They will check the brakes, tires, and all the electronics inside. This report is your best defense against buying a total lemon. It also gives you a list of things you can use to negotiate a lower price.

  • Computer Scan: Finds “pending” codes that haven’t turned on the check engine light yet.
  • Fluid Check: Dirty or burnt-smelling fluids are a sign of poor maintenance in the past.
  • Brake and Tire Check: Ensures you won’t have to spend $1,000 on new parts the week you buy it.
FeatureLow-Mileage Vehicles (Under 60,000 Miles)High-Mileage Vehicles (Over 100,000 Miles)
Service FrequencyStandard annual maintenance following the factory schedule.More frequent visits to the mechanic for wear-and-tear items.
Major Component RiskVery low; most major parts are still within their expected lifespan.High; parts like alternators, water pumps, and starters often fail.
Common RepairsOil changes, tire rotations, and cabin air filters.Timing belts, suspension bushings, and transmission flushes.
Tires and BrakesUsually on the original set or the first replacement.Likely on the third or fourth set; rotors may need resurfacing or replacement.
Warranty CoverageOften still covered by original factory or powertrain warranties.Usually out of warranty; repairs are paid entirely out of pocket.
Fluid ConditionFluids are generally clean and haven’t broken down yet.Fluids may be dirty or burnt-smelling if neglected by past owners.
Annual BudgetLower annual costs; focused on prevention rather than repair.Higher annual budget required; repairs can sometimes exceed car value.

Key Takeaways for Maintenance Planning

  • Consistency is Key: A high-mileage car with a perfect stack of service records is often a safer buy than a low-mileage car with no history.
  • The Timing Belt Factor: When shopping in the 60,000 to 90,000-mile range, always check if the timing belt has been replaced, as this is a high-cost preventative job.
  • Predicting Future Costs: High-mileage vehicles are easier to “total” because their market value is lower, meaning a single major repair can make the car financialy unviable.
  • The Inspection Advantage: For high-mileage cars, a pre-purchase inspection is the best money you can spend to identify hidden leaks or computer error codes.

Essential Maintenance Checklist: Questions to Ask the Seller

Has the vehicle ever been involved in an accident or had body repairs?

Even minor fender benders can lead to long-term alignment issues or hidden frame damage. It is important to know if the car has a clean title or if it has been rebuilt.

Do you have the complete service records and receipts?

A car with a paper trail is always a safer bet. Look for consistent oil changes, brake services, and any major repairs that were performed during the owner’s tenure.

Why are you selling the vehicle right now?

Understanding the seller’s motivation can help you gauge the car’s reliability. If they are selling because they upgraded, that is usually a good sign. If they are selling quickly after a major repair, proceed with caution.

When was the last time the tires and brakes were replaced?

Tires and brakes are significant expenses. Knowing their age helps you calculate if you will need to spend an extra thousand dollars shortly after the purchase.

Has the timing belt or water pump been replaced recently?

For cars in the 60,000 to 100,000-mile range, this is the most critical question. If these haven’t been done and the car requires them, you should negotiate the price down significantly.

Are there any current leaks or warning lights on the dashboard?

Ask specifically about oil leaks or cooling system issues. Sometimes sellers reset the “Check Engine” light right before a viewing, so asking this upfront creates a verbal record.

How many people have owned this car before you?

Fewer owners typically mean more consistent maintenance. A car that has changed hands four times in three years is a major red flag for hidden mechanical problems.

Was the car primarily driven on the highway or in the city?

As discussed in this guide, highway miles are much easier on the engine and transmission. A commuter car used for long highway trips is often in better mechanical shape than a grocery-getter used for short city bursts.

Are there any “quirks” or features that don’t work perfectly?

Every older car has a quirk, such as a window that rolls down slowly or a radio knob that sticks. If a seller is honest about the small things, they are more likely to be honest about the big things.

Has the car ever failed an emissions or safety inspection?

This can indicate underlying engine health issues or exhaust problems that could be expensive to fix before you can register the car in your name.

Does the car have a spare key and the original owner’s manual?

While small, having the original accessories and a spare key is a sign that the previous owner was organized and likely took good care of the vehicle.

Are you comfortable with me taking the car to a mechanic for an inspection?

A seller who refuses a professional inspection is almost certainly hiding something. A confident seller will have no problem letting a pro look under the hood.

Summary Tips for the Buyer

  • Listen to the Tone: If the seller is hesitant or vague about maintenance, they probably didn’t prioritize it.
  • Verify the VIN: Take the Vehicle Identification Number and run your own report to see if their answers match the official record.
  • Check the Fluids: Even if you aren’t a mechanic, pulling the dipstick to see if the oil is jet black or at the right level tells you a lot about the current owner’s habits.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

Buying a used car is a big journey that takes a bit of research. Now you know that the odometer is just one part of a much bigger story. Focus on finding a car that was maintained well and driven reasonably. A well-cared-for car with 120,000 miles is a better friend than a neglected one with 60,000. Always prioritize the car’s actual condition over the number on the dash.

Remember to use all the tools at your disposal before you hand over your cash. Check the history reports, get a professional inspection, and do a long test drive. Look at the brand’s reputation and see if the price fits your budget and future repair plans. By being a smart shopper, you can find a reliable ride that serves you for many years. Good luck finding your next favorite car on the lot!

Frequently Asked Questions About Used Car Mileage

Is there a specific mileage where a car’s value drops the most?

The most significant drop in value, known as the depreciation curve, typically occurs at the 30,000, 60,000, and 100,000-mile marks. Many buyers use these round numbers as psychological barriers, making it easier for you to find a bargain just past these milestones.

How does the engine type affect what is considered high mileage?

Diesel engines are often built with heavier-duty components and can frequently reach 300,000 to 500,000 miles with proper care. Gasoline engines are generally considered high-mileage once they surpass 150,000 to 200,000 miles.

Does a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) status override high mileage concerns?

A CPO vehicle must pass a rigorous inspection by a trained technician, which often provides more peace of mind than a standard used car. Even if the mileage is slightly higher, the extended warranties included with CPO cars protect you from costly repairs.

Can I trust the odometer reading on every used car?

While most are accurate, you must verify odometer accuracy by cross-referencing the vehicle history report with the physical condition of the car. Look for inconsistencies in the maintenance history where mileage might have been recorded incorrectly or rolled back.

What is the impact of multiple previous owners on a high-mileage car?

A high-mileage car with a single owner is often better because it suggests a consistent maintenance history. Multiple owners can lead to gaps in routine service, as each person may have had different standards for vehicle care.

How do EPA ratings and fuel economy change as a car gets older?

As an engine experiences wear and tear, carbon buildup and friction can cause a slight dip in MPG compared to the original EPA ratings. Regular fluid changes and engine performance tuning can help maintain better fuel economy over the car’s lifespan.

Is it worth buying a high-mileage luxury brand?

Luxury brands often feature advanced car engineering, but they also come with much higher repair costs for specialized auto parts. A high-mileage luxury sedan might be affordable to buy but very expensive to keep on the road.

Does a car’s appearance always match its mechanical condition?

Not necessarily; a car can have a pristine interior condition but have serious engine health issues or brake issues. Always prioritize a professional inspection of the mechanical components over the visual appearance.

How does stop-and-go traffic impact a car differently than highway miles?

Stop-and-go traffic causes more wear and tear on the transmission and cooling system due to constant shifting and lack of airflow. Highway miles allow the vehicle to operate at a steady temperature, which is much better for long-term reliability.

What should I look for during a test drive of a high-mileage vehicle?

Pay close attention to engine performance, unusual vibrations, and how the transmission shifts. Listen for any grinding sounds that could indicate brake issues or worn suspension parts.

Are there specific car models known for being long-lasting vehicles?

Yes, certain makes like Toyota, Honda, and GMC are frequently cited in automotive research for reaching 200,000 to 300,000 miles. Choosing one of these long-lasting vehicles reduces the risk of buying a high-mileage car.

How does “Buy Here Pay Here” financing work for high-mileage cars?

In markets like Austin or San Marcos, Texas, BHPH dealerships offer easy-approval financing for older vehicles. This is a good option for those on a tight budget who need a car immediately, even if the mileage is higher.

Why is a pre-purchase inspection so important for older cars?

A pre-purchase inspection by a professional mechanic can identify hidden problems like lubrication leaks or control system errors. This checklist helps you understand the true vehicle status before you commit to the purchase.

Do high-mileage cars have a lower trade-in value?

Yes, mileage is a primary factor in determining market value and depreciation. As the odometer reading climbs, the resale value naturally drops, which is why high-mileage cars are often sold as a bargain.

What parts are most likely to need replacement on a car with 150,000 miles?

You should expect to look at auto parts like the water pump, alternator, and various suspension bushings. These are common repair costs associated with the natural lifespan of a vehicle.

Does “garage kept” really make a difference for a used car?

A garage-kept vehicle is protected from extreme weather, which preserves the paint and prevents rubber parts from drying out. Even with average mileage, these cars often look and perform better than those left outside.

How does car age compare to mileage in terms of importance?

A newer car with high mileage is often better than an extremely old car with low mileage because the automotive parts are more modern and less likely to have suffered from inactivity. Rubber components like tires and belts can fail due to age regardless of use.

What are the benefits of buying from a large used car inventory?

Shopping at a dealership with a large pre-owned inventory gives you more car models and car makes to compare. This allows you to find the best balance of mileage, condition, and price within your budget.

Are hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) reliable at high mileage?

Hybrids and EVs have fewer moving auto parts in their motors, which can lead to excellent vehicle longevity. However, you must check the battery health, as replacing a battery pack can be a very costly repair.

Should I worry about a car that was previously a rental?

Rental companies usually follow a very strict routine service and vehicle preparation schedule. While they often have higher annual mileage, they are typically well-maintained and can be a high-quality used car deal.

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