How Much Mileage is Too Much for a Car: On Used and New Vehicles

Summary

In this insightful video, Brian from Honest Mechanic discusses how to assess the mileage of a used car. He highlights that while mileage is important, it’s not the only factor to consider. Key points include understanding average annual mileage, the impact of the car's age and maintenance history, and the significance of the type of driving (highway vs. city). Brian also emphasizes the reliability of specific makes, such as Toyota and Honda, known for their longevity. Ultimately, he advises having any used car inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure a sound purchase decision.

Takeaways

• 🚗 Mileage is a crucial factor in assessing a used car, but it's not the only determinant of its condition.
• 📅 The typical driver accumulates about 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year; significantly higher mileage may indicate more wear and tear.
• 🕰️ Compare the car's age with its mileage; newer cars with high mileage may have been used for long trips, while older cars with low mileage may have experienced more stress from short trips.
• 🔧 A well-maintained car with high mileage can be a better buy than a low mileage car that wasn't maintained properly.
• 🏙️ Consider the type of mileage; highway miles are generally less stressful on a car than city miles.
• 🛠️ Regular service and repairs are key to a vehicle's longevity and overall condition.
• 🌟 Some brands, like Toyota and Honda, are known for their durability and can surpass 200,000 miles with proper care.
• 📊 When evaluating a used car, consider how you plan to use it; lower mileage may be preferable for daily commutes.
• 🔍 Always have a used car inspected by a qualified mechanic and take it for a test drive to identify potential issues.
• 📋 Evaluate the car's history, intended use, and reliability of the make and model before making a purchase decision.

Q & A

What is the average annual mileage for a typical driver?

The typical driver clocks in about 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year.

How does high mileage on a newer car compare to low mileage on an older car?

A newer car with high mileage may have been used for long trips on less stressful highway conditions, while an older car with low mileage might have been used for short trips, which can be tougher on the car due to frequent cold starts.

Why is maintenance history important when evaluating a used car?

A car that has been well-maintained, even with high mileage, could be a smarter buy than a low mileage car that wasn't maintained properly. Regular service and repairs are key to a vehicle's longevity.

What type of mileage is less stressful on a car?

Highway miles are usually less stressful on a car compared to city miles, as highway driving often involves less stop-and-go traffic.

Which car brands are known for their longevity and reliability?

Brands like Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, Subaru, Mazda, Hyundai, and Kia are known for their durability and can handle high mileage well.

What should you consider regarding future use when buying a used car?

If you need a reliable vehicle for long daily commutes, a lower mileage car might be preferable. However, if the car is for occasional use, a higher mileage car might be acceptable.

What are the risks of buying a low mileage used car?

A low mileage car may have been used for short trips, which can be tougher on the engine due to frequent cold starts and less time operating at optimal temperatures.

What steps should you take before purchasing a used car?

Always have the used car inspected by a qualified mechanic and take it for a test drive to check for any underlying issues that might not be immediately apparent.

Is there a strict cutoff for how much mileage is considered 'too much'?

There isn't a strict cutoff for too much mileage; it’s essential to consider factors such as the car's average annual mileage, age, maintenance history, and type of mileage.

What are some examples of reliable car models from the mentioned brands?

Examples include the Toyota Camry, Lexus RX, Honda Accord, Acura MDX, Subaru Outback, Mazda 3, and Hyundai Sonata.