How Many Miles Are Acceptable on a Used Car?

When shopping for a used car, one of the most important factors to evaluate is the vehicle's mileage. The odometer reading provides insight into how much wear and tear the car has endured. But what number of miles should raise a red flag?

This comprehensive guide examines typical mileage ranges for pre-owned vehicles by age and establishes reasonable limits for acceptable mileage. Learn to assess if a car's mileage aligns with norms for that model year. Plus, find tips for estimating a used car's remaining life and inspecting high mileage vehicles thoroughly during test drives.

Why Used Car Mileage Matters

Mileage gives a baseline indication of a used vehicle's condition. Lower miles typically equate to:

• Less wear on parts like bushings, belts, hoses
• Less likelihood of major repairs needed
• Potential for longer remaining vehicle lifetime
• Stronger resale value down the road

Meanwhile higher miles suggest:

• More repairs and maintenance imminent
• Components nearer to failure due to aged wear
• Shorter projected usable remaining lifespan
• Lower resale value in the future

While not definitive, mileage provides an objective starting gauge of how gently or harshly a car was operated.

Average Annual Mileage Rates

The typical driver travels between 10,000-15,000 miles annually. Those totals can help benchmark if a car's mileage seems appropriate for its age.

For example, a 5 year old car with 50,000 miles averages about 10,000 miles per year, well within normal range. But a 10 year old car with 150,000 miles was likely driven roughly 15,000 miles annually, potentially indicative of extensive highway use.

Compare the car’s total miles to average annual rates to assess if mileage aligns with expected norms.

Acceptable Used Car Mileage by Age

Here are general mileage guidelines by used vehicle model year:

1-3 years old

• Average miles: 36,000 miles
• Upper limit: 50,000 miles

4-6 years old

• Average miles: 54,000 miles
• Upper limit: 75,000 miles

7-10 years old

• Average miles: 100,000 miles
• Upper limit: 150,000 miles

Over 10 years old

• Average miles: 120,000+ miles
• Upper limit: 250,000 miles

Mileage exceeding upper limits suggests harder than average use. Closely inspect maintenance records and mechanical condition.

Mileage Benchmarks for Popular Used Models

Here are common mileage ranges by model for popular used vehicles:

Toyota Camry

• 3 years - 30,000 miles
• 5 years - 60,000 miles
• 10 years - 130,000 miles

Honda Accord

• 3 years - 30,000 miles
• 5 years - 65,000 miles
• 10 years - 150,000 miles

Honda Civic

• 3 years - 23,000 miles
• 5 years - 55,000 miles
• 10 years - 115,000 miles

Toyota RAV4

• 3 years - 27,000 miles
• 5 years - 68,000 miles
• 10 years - 128,000 miles

Compare mileage to model benchmarks to gauge if a used car aligns with segment norms.

High Mileage Used Car Considerations

Once a used vehicle surpasses 100,000 miles, additional precautions apply:

• Maintenance history - Confirm regular oil changes, tune-ups, and major repairs. Gaps in service raise concerns.
• Highway vs city miles - Highway miles are easier than stop-and-go city wear and tear.
• Single vs multiple owners - More owners raises likelihood of missed maintenance or abuse.
• Brand reputation - Toyota or Honda over 100k miles differs from domestic models.
• Thorough inspection - Check for leaks, loose parts, worn belts and hoses. Test all functions.
• Lower resale value - High mileage cars have less eventual trade-in or private party worth.
• Cost of repairs - Upcoming maintenance bills may erase savings from lower purchase price.

While not dealbreakers, higher mileage vehicles call for cautious inspection and evaluation to buy confidently.

Estimating Used Car Lifespan by Mileage

As vehicles age, projected lifespan shortens. Mileage offers some guidelines on years of use potentially left:

Mileage	Estimated Years Left
60,000 miles	10+ years
100,000 miles	5-10 years
150,000 miles	2-5 years
200,000+ miles	Under 2 years

This assumes properly maintained vehicles and average annual mileage of 12,000. Luxury brands may exceed projections while poor maintenance shortens lifespan.

Odometer Rollback Fraud

Buyers must also watch for odometer fraud where sellers illegally roll back the mileage to boost resale value. Warning signs include:

• Mileage inconsistent with vehicle's age
• Very low miles on dated cars
• Present owner unsure of mileage history
• Service records show dramatic drops in mileage
• Dashboard wear inconsistent with claimed miles

Run a vehicle history report to spot mileage inconsistencies and indicate potential rollback fraud.

Questions to Ask About High Mileage

If considering a high mileage used car, ask:

• Has mileage been verified as accurate?
• Were all maintenance and oil changes done per factory schedule?
• Have any major repairs or part replacements been done?
• Does condition match expectations for the mileage?
• How is this model rated for longevity at higher miles?
• What mechanic inspections have been performed already?

Detailed answers provide insights on how the vehicle was cared for.

Things to Inspect on High Mileage Test Drive

When test driving an older, high mileage used car, scrutinize:

• Engine noise or smoking upon startup
• Delayed acceleration or lack of power
• Transmission shifting smoothness
• Unusual vibrations, shakes or drivetrain noises
• Function of all interior controls and electronics
• Warning lights illuminated on dash
• Braking responsiveness and pedal feel
• Alignment and wheel balance
• Suspension and steering tightness

Don’t ignore any odd behaviors that could signal upcoming repairs.

Is Buying a High Mileage Used Car Worth It?

Potential advantages:

• Substantially lower purchase price
• Often still plenty of good miles left
• Chance to buy a nicer car for less money
• Opportunity to purchase desired vehicle features

Key drawbacks:

• More frequent repairs and costs likely
• Higher risk of breakdowns and failures
• Lower resale value in the future
• Closer to eventual scrapping or salvage

Weigh benefits against concerns to determine if you’re comfortable with higher mileage tradeoffs.

Mileage Thresholds By Used Car Category

These general mileage limits apply when car shopping:

Vehicle Type	Maximum Mileage
Economy commuter car	150,000 miles
Midsize daily driver sedan	130,000 miles
Luxury SUV	100,000 miles
Sports car	70,000 miles
Off road pickup truck	250,000+ miles

Luxury and performance models reach thresholds quicker than rugged trucks or basic economy cars designed for high mileage.

FAQs

How many miles are too many on a 10 year old used car?

Around 150,000 miles on a 10 year old car is approaching the upper limit. Closely inspect vehicle history and maintenance records above that figure.

Does more highway or city driving impact acceptable mileage?

Highway mileage is generally easier on cars than stop-and-go city driving. Prioritize highway vehicles when considering higher mileage cars.

What are signs of odometer rollback fraud?

Watch for mileage discrepancies on vehicle history reports. Also beware of abnormally low miles for a car's age. Confirm miles with maintenance records.

Is 150,000 miles too high for a Honda or Toyota?

Not necessarily - 150,000+ miles on well maintained Honda/Toyota vehicles may still have adequate life left if you plan to drive mileage-intensively. But maximize savings on purchase price.

Should I buy an older car with low miles or newer car with more miles?

It depends on many factors, but lower miles, even on an older car, may indicate less wear. Prioritize reviewing maintenance history as well to make the best choice.

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