What Is Good Mileage for a Used Car?

It’s a common misconception that you should stay away from a pre-owned car with over 100,000 miles. There are many factors that can play into what makes a pre-owned vehicle a “good choice,” but used car mileage isn’t always the best deciding factor. A lot of times, the condition the vehicle is in, as well as maintenance should also play a part in your decision. When searching for a new-to-you vehicle to take on your Mission commutes, you’re likely going to come across a variety of pre-owned vehicles that are less than stellar.

Fortunately, at Burns Motors, Ltd., we have a comprehensive inventory of vehicles that have been inspected by our team. We’re proud of what we do here, and our vehicles prove that. We also want to make sure you have the best car buying experience in the Edinburg area, so we’re here to help you through your automotive journey and answer questions like, “what is good mileage for a used car?” with this guide that we’ve put together.

Tips For Buying Pre-Owned Vehicles

When looking for a pre-owned vehicle, things like condition and maintenance are important factors that should be taken into account, along with the used car’s mileage. But what else should you look out for? Let’s explore those items below:

• • Driving History: 75,000 miles of city driving and 75,000 miles of highway driving put two totally different stresses on a vehicle. 75,000 miles of highway driving is typically easier on the vehicle’s parts, so it’s important to know the previous owner’s driving history before buying.

• Location: Where was the vehicle located for the majority of its life? A warmer, dryer climate is easier on vehicles than a colder, wetter climate.

• Maintenance: You’ll want to make sure the vehicle has had regular maintenance and no mechanical issues. Getting the vehicle inspected by a certified mechanic as well as the vehicle’s previous maintenance history is good insurance before purchasing a pre-owned vehicle.

Feel free to reach out to our service department if you need assistance with deciding if you’re making the right choice on a pre-owned vehicle

What Should You Consider – Mileage or Age?

So, to answer, “what is good mileage for a used car?” there’s not a steadfast answer. The better way to look at purchasing a pre-owned vehicle is by setting the expectation of the used car’s mileage lifespan. Meaning, if a used car has around 50,000 miles and it’s in working condition, it’s likely going to be a good buy. But if a more inexpensive vehicle has 100,000 miles, you can expect it to last at least another four years or so, based on its condition.

The average Pharr driver puts on about 12,000 miles per year on their vehicle, so keep this in mind when considering mileage vs. age. Furthermore, a newer car with higher mileage may be a better choice than a low-mileage older one. Before deciding on mileage or age, take these factors into consideration:

• An older car that has fewer miles typically means it has been sitting longer. As a vehicle sits overtime, rubber components and seals can begin to develop cracks resulting in mechanical issues.
• As long as the vehicle has a well-documented maintenance history, that’s more important than having lower miles.
• It’s also important to note that lower mileage vehicles are often more expensive, so a higher mileage vehicle might be the more budget-savvy choice.

Take-Home a Dependable Pre-Owned Vehicle Today from Burns Motors, Ltd.!

At Burns Motors, Ltd., we provide the highest quality vehicles with the highest quality customer service. Don’t forget to also check out our pre-owned vehicle specials for an even better deal. If you have any questions, please contact us online or visit us in McAllen. We’re here to hep you find the perfect vehicle, whether it’s a used or new car. For more car buying tips, check out our guide on the difference between coupes and sedans and whether or not you can lease a used car today!