What is good mileage for a used car?

Why mileage matters when buying a used car

Mileage is an indicator of how much a car has been driven and the likelihood of wear and tear. Cars with higher mileage are more likely to have dents and scratches, faded paint, worn tires or brakes, or damaged interior features. But not all used cars with high mileage are duds — many cars are well-maintained and have plenty of life left in them. Modern engineering and technology have produced cars that keep running well after the 100,000-mile mark.

Mileage also plays a significant role in the resale value of a car. Cars with higher mileages tend to cost less than cars with lower mileages. If you're looking for a budget-friendly purchase, consider looking at cars with higher mileages. It's important to note that mileage is just one factor to consider during the used car buying process — learn more about what to look for when buying a used car.

How many miles is too many for a used car?

There's no magic mileage number that makes a used car off-limits. Every car is different, and as we mentioned, engineering and technology have significantly improved the longevity of many makes and models. With responsible maintenance, many cars can go 200,000 miles and beyond. That said, it's reasonable to approach cars with 100,000 miles or more with caution.

It's also important to consider how you'll be using the car. If you don't drive frequently or over long distances, a car with higher mileage and a lower cost might make the most sense. If you intend to put a lot of miles on the car or require high performance, you may want a car with lower mileage.

Does mileage affect car insurance rates?

Your car's mileage is only one factor in determining your insurance rate. High-mileage cars are typically valued lower than low mileage, which could mean less expensive car insurance premiums. But if your high-mileage car is an older model, its lack of safety features could increase your rate. A more relevant factor in determining your rate may be how you intend to use your car. Insurers are often more interested in how many miles you'll be putting on the car than how many are already on it. For example, someone who drives 7,000 miles annually will likely receive a lower rate than someone who drives 30,000 miles annually.

You may also want to consider low-mileage insurance or usage-based insurance. Learn more about how low annual mileage affects your insurance.