Should I Purchase a Newer Used Car with Over 100,000 Miles?

Miles or Years More Important When Buying a Used Car?

When you’re looking for that perfect combination of affordability and reliability, the used car market can be stressful. There are so many different choices available and it can be risky to drive home in a vehicle that was previously owned by someone else. If you find yourself wondering, “are miles or years more important when buying a used car,” then we are here to help. Keep reading to learn more about choosing the perfect used car.

Are Highway Miles Better Than City Miles?

The short answer is yes. If you are buying a used car and it has a lot of miles on it, it’s probably a better buy if the vehicle was driven primarily on the highway. City driving requires more frequent stops and accelerations. Doing that more often puts a bigger strain on your vehicle and can lead to parts wearing out or needing replacement more frequently. Highway miles, while still important to consider, are easier on the vehicle overall because the engine is not being forced to work with extremes of stopping and going.

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Is it Better to Buy an Older Vehicle with Fewer Miles? 

So if the number of miles is throwing you off, you might consider an older vehicle with less miles under its belt. This can be a great way to save money, but also comes with considerations. If a vehicle is more than 9 years old and has only 30,000 miles on it, there’s a good chance that it wasn’t driven regularly. A vehicle that spent a lot of time sitting outside or in the garage without being driven is prone to issues and parts needing to be replaced. Certain things like hoses and filters are likely to wear out when unused.

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How Can I Be Sure the Vehicle is a Safe Choice?

If you are questioning a used vehicle, there are two great ways to check on its history and maintenance. The first thing is to use a vehicle history check. Most dealerships will offer a free vehicle history on used cars, showing things like maintenance and repair at service centers throughout the vehicle’s life. However, if the car in question was maintained or repaired at home, those records will not show up. The best way to get a good idea of the reliability of a vehicle is to have it inspected by a trusted technician. If you get the green light from someone you trust, you are more likely to drive home in a reliable used car.