how many miles are good on a used car

When you’re shopping for a used car, the number on the odometer can feel like the most important factor. It’s easy to get fixated on finding the lowest possible mileage, but the truth is, a car’s history and maintenance are often just as critical. So, how do you know what to look for? The question of how many miles are good on a used car doesn’t have a single, simple answer, but with a few guidelines, you can shop with confidence.

Looking Beyond a Single Number

Instead of searching for a magic mileage number, a better approach is to consider the car’s age and how it was driven. A car that is ten years old with 120,000 miles has averaged a very reasonable 12,000 miles per year—a common benchmark. More important than the total is the driving context. A highway-heavy 100,000 miles is often less stressful on a car than stop-and-go city driving for 50,000 miles.

How Many Miles Are Good on a Used Car for Your Budget?

Your budget plays a huge role in what constitutes “good” mileage. A car with 60,000 miles will cost more than an identical model with 100,000 miles. Often, the best value lies in that higher-mileage vehicle, provided it has been well cared for. Don’t automatically dismiss a car because its odometer reads higher than you imagined; a well-maintained higher-mileage car can be a much smarter buy than a neglected low-mileage one.

The Golden Rule: Maintenance Over Mileage

This is the most important tip you can take away. A full service history is worth its weight in gold. Look for a car with consistent oil changes, tire rotations, and records of any major services. A one-owner car with a thick folder of receipts is often a safer bet than a low-mileage car with an unknown past. Always have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to check for hidden issues, regardless of the odometer reading.

Modern Cars Are Built to Last

It’s also helpful to adjust your perspective for modern vehicles. While high mileage once signaled the end of a car’s life, today’s cars are engineered to last 200,000 miles or more with proper care. Seeing 150,000 miles on a well-kept modern sedan from a reliable brand shouldn’t be an immediate red flag, but rather a point for negotiation and a sign to be extra diligent during the inspection.

In the end, finding a good used car is about balancing mileage with proven care and a clean history. By focusing on the vehicle’s overall condition and maintenance records, you’ll be in a great position to find a dependable car that will serve you well for many miles to come.