How Many Miles Should Be on a Used Car

Buying a used car? Mileage matters—but it’s not the only factor. While most experts agree that under 12,000 miles per year is ideal, a well-maintained high-mileage car can still be a great deal. Focus on service history, vehicle condition, and your driving needs to make the smartest choice.

Buying a used car can feel like navigating a maze—especially when you’re staring at the odometer and wondering, “Is this too many miles?” You’ve probably heard numbers thrown around: “Don’t go over 100,000,” or “Anything under 80,000 is safe.” But the truth is, there’s no magic number that guarantees reliability. What matters most is how the car was driven, maintained, and cared for over its lifetime.

Think of mileage like age. Just as a 70-year-old person can be in better shape than a 50-year-old, a high-mileage car with excellent upkeep can outperform a low-mileage one that’s been neglected. The key is understanding what those numbers really mean—and how to interpret them in context. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how many miles should be on a used car, so you can shop with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.

Whether you’re eyeing a compact sedan for city commutes or a rugged SUV for weekend adventures, knowing how to evaluate mileage will help you find a vehicle that fits your budget, lifestyle, and long-term needs. Let’s dive into the details and uncover what truly makes a used car a smart buy.

Key Takeaways

• Ideal annual mileage: Most experts recommend looking for used cars with fewer than 12,000 miles per year of age—so a 5-year-old car should have under 60,000 miles.
• High-mileage isn’t always bad: A well-maintained vehicle with 100,000+ miles can still run reliably, especially if it’s a known durable model like a Toyota or Honda.
• Check the service history: Regular oil changes, timing belt replacements, and brake inspections matter more than mileage alone.
• Consider your driving habits: If you drive mostly on highways, higher mileage may be less concerning than city driving, which causes more wear and tear.
• Beware of low-mileage red flags: Extremely low mileage (under 5,000 miles per year) can indicate long periods of inactivity, which may lead to dry rot, battery issues, or fuel system problems.
• Use mileage as a starting point: Always pair mileage with a pre-purchase inspection, vehicle history report, and test drive to assess true condition.
• Newer isn’t always better: A 3-year-old car with 70,000 miles might be riskier than a 7-year-old car with 85,000 miles and full maintenance records.

Understanding Average Mileage and What It Means

When shopping for a used car, one of the first things you’ll notice is the odometer reading. But what’s considered “normal” or “acceptable”? The average American driver racks up about 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year, according to the Federal Highway Administration. That means a 5-year-old car with 60,000 to 75,000 miles is right in line with national averages.

But averages don’t tell the whole story. Some people drive far less—maybe they work from home or live close to work. Others drive much more, especially those with long commutes or frequent road trips. So while 12,000 miles per year is a helpful benchmark, it’s just a starting point.

Why Annual Mileage Matters

Looking at annual mileage—total miles divided by the car’s age—gives you a clearer picture of how the vehicle was used. For example, a 10-year-old car with 90,000 miles averages 9,000 miles per year, which is below average and generally a good sign. But a 4-year-old car with 80,000 miles averages 20,000 miles per year—double the national average—and may have endured more wear and tear.

High annual mileage isn’t automatically a dealbreaker, but it does raise questions. Was the car used for long highway commutes (which are easier on engines) or stop-and-go city driving (which stresses components)? Was it regularly serviced? These factors matter more than the number itself.

Low Mileage: A Double-Edged Sword

You might think lower is always better—but that’s not always true. A car with extremely low mileage, say under 5,000 miles per year, can actually be problematic. Why? Because cars aren’t meant to sit idle for long periods. When a vehicle isn’t driven regularly, fluids can degrade, seals can dry out, and batteries can lose charge. Tires may develop flat spots, and fuel can go stale in the tank.

We’ve all heard stories of “garage queens”—cars that look pristine but have hidden issues from sitting unused. A 7-year-old car with only 30,000 miles might seem like a steal, but if it hasn’t been driven or maintained properly, it could need expensive repairs sooner than expected.

So while low mileage can be appealing, it’s important to ask: Why is the mileage so low? Was the owner elderly and rarely drove? Did the car sit in storage? These questions can help you avoid buying a time bomb disguised as a bargain.

The 100,000-Mile Myth: Should You Avoid High-Mileage Cars?

There’s a persistent myth in the used car world: never buy a car with over 100,000 miles. But this outdated belief doesn’t hold up in today’s automotive landscape. Thanks to advances in engineering, materials, and manufacturing, modern cars are built to last far beyond six digits on the odometer.

In fact, many vehicles now routinely reach 200,000 miles or more with proper care. Brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, and Subaru are known for their durability, and models such as the Camry, Accord, F-150, and Outback often become high-mileage champions.

What Makes a High-Mileage Car Reliable?

So what separates a high-mileage car that’s on its last legs from one that’s just getting warmed up? It all comes down to maintenance and usage patterns.

A car with 120,000 miles that’s had regular oil changes, timely timing belt replacements, and consistent brake and transmission servicing is often in better shape than a 70,000-mile car that’s been neglected. Think of it like a marathon runner: someone who trains consistently and takes care of their body can run for decades, while someone who pushes too hard without recovery may burn out early.

Highway miles are also generally easier on a vehicle than city miles. Stop-and-go traffic puts extra strain on the engine, transmission, and brakes. In contrast, steady highway driving allows the engine to operate at optimal temperatures and reduces wear on components.

Signs a High-Mileage Car Is Still a Good Buy

If you’re considering a car with over 100,000 miles, look for these positive indicators:

– **Complete service records:** A detailed maintenance log shows the owner cared about the car.
– **Recent major services:** Has the timing belt been replaced? What about the water pump or transmission fluid?
– **Clean interior and exterior:** A well-kept appearance often reflects overall care.
– **Smooth test drive:** Listen for unusual noises, check for smooth shifting, and note how the car handles.
– **No signs of major repairs needed:** Avoid cars with visible leaks, smoke from the exhaust, or warning lights on the dashboard.

For example, a 2015 Honda Civic with 130,000 miles, full service history, and recent brake and tire replacements could be a far better investment than a 2018 Ford Focus with 85,000 miles and no records.

How to Evaluate Mileage in Context

Mileage alone doesn’t tell you if a used car is a good buy. To make a smart decision, you need to evaluate it alongside other critical factors. Think of mileage as one piece of a larger puzzle.

Vehicle Age and Mileage Together

A car’s age and mileage should be considered together. A 2-year-old car with 40,000 miles is averaging 20,000 miles per year—quite high for such a young vehicle. That could mean it was used for long commutes or frequent trips, which may have accelerated wear.

On the other hand, a 10-year-old car with 100,000 miles averages 10,000 miles per year, which is below average and suggests gentle use. Even though the mileage is higher, the car may be in better condition due to lower annual usage.

Use this simple formula:
**Total Miles ÷ Age in Years = Average Annual Mileage**
Then compare that number to the 12,000-mile benchmark. If it’s significantly higher, dig deeper into the car’s history.

Vehicle History Reports Are Essential

Always pull a vehicle history report using services like Carfax or AutoCheck. These reports reveal crucial details such as:

– Accident history
– Number of previous owners
– Title status (clean, salvage, rebuilt)
– Odometer rollback alerts
– Service and maintenance records (if reported)

For instance, a car with 90,000 miles might seem fine—until you discover it was in a major accident or had three previous owners in two years. That could indicate inconsistent care or hidden damage.

The Importance of a Pre-Purchase Inspection

No matter the mileage, always have a trusted mechanic inspect the car before you buy. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) can uncover issues that aren’t visible during a test drive, such as:

– Engine or transmission problems
– Suspension wear
– Frame damage
– Electrical faults
– Rust or corrosion

A PPI typically costs $100–$200 but can save you thousands in unexpected repairs. It’s one of the best investments you can make when buying a used car.

Best and Worst Mileage Ranges by Car Type

Not all cars are created equal when it comes to mileage tolerance. Some vehicles are built to last, while others may start showing issues earlier. Your ideal mileage range also depends on the type of car you’re buying.

Sedans and Compact Cars

Sedans like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Mazda3 are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. These cars often last 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper care.

– **Ideal mileage:** Under 80,000 miles for a 5–7 year old model
– **Acceptable range:** Up to 120,000 miles if well-maintained
– **Red flags:** High mileage with no service records, signs of rust, or transmission issues

For example, a 2017 Toyota Corolla with 75,000 miles and full maintenance history is likely to run smoothly for many more years.

SUVs and Trucks

SUVs and trucks, especially full-size models like the Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, or Chevrolet Silverado, are built for durability and heavy use. Many can exceed 200,000 miles.

– **Ideal mileage:** Under 100,000 miles for a 5–8 year old model
– **Acceptable range:** Up to 150,000 miles with regular maintenance
– **Red flags:** Frame rust, transmission slipping, or excessive oil consumption

A 2016 Ford F-150 with 110,000 miles and recent transmission service could be a solid workhorse for years to come.

Luxury and Performance Vehicles

Luxury cars like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi often have higher maintenance costs and may require specialized repairs. While they can last a long time, they’re more sensitive to neglect.

– **Ideal mileage:** Under 60,000 miles for a 5–7 year old model
– **Acceptable range:** Up to 90,000 miles if serviced at dealerships or specialists
– **Red flags:** Check engine lights, electrical issues, or expensive repair history

A 2018 BMW 3 Series with 50,000 miles and full dealer service records is a safer bet than one with 70,000 miles and unknown maintenance.

Tips for Buying a Used Car Based on Mileage

Now that you understand how to interpret mileage, here are some practical tips to help you make the best decision when shopping for a used car.

Set a Mileage Budget

Before you start shopping, decide on a maximum mileage you’re comfortable with based on the car’s age and type. For example:

– For a 5-year-old sedan: aim for under 60,000 miles
– For a 7-year-old SUV: under 85,000 miles
– For a 10-year-old truck: under 120,000 miles

This helps narrow your search and prevents you from falling in love with a car that’s too high-mileage for your comfort level.

Prioritize Maintenance Over Mileage

If you’re torn between two similar cars—one with lower mileage but no service records, and one with higher mileage but full maintenance history—choose the one with the records. Regular oil changes, brake inspections, and timely repairs are far more important than a few thousand miles.

Ask the seller for maintenance receipts or check if the car was serviced at a dealership (records are often stored in manufacturer databases).

Test Drive with Purpose

During the test drive, pay attention to how the car feels. Does the engine sound smooth? Do the gears shift without hesitation? Are there any unusual vibrations or noises?

Take the car on different road types—highways, hills, and city streets—to see how it performs under various conditions. A high-mileage car that drives smoothly is often a better bet than a low-mileage one that feels sluggish or noisy.

Negotiate Based on Condition, Not Just Mileage

Use mileage as a negotiating tool, but don’t let it overshadow the car’s overall condition. If a car has 90,000 miles but needs new tires, brakes, and a timing belt, those repairs could cost $2,000–$3,000. Factor that into your offer.

Conversely, a well-maintained high-mileage car might be worth paying a little more for, especially if it’s a known reliable model.

Consider Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Options

If you’re worried about high mileage or unknown history, consider a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle. CPO cars are typically late-model, low-mileage vehicles that have passed rigorous inspections and come with extended warranties.

While CPO cars cost more than non-certified used cars, they offer peace of mind and often include perks like roadside assistance and maintenance packages.

Conclusion: Make Mileage Work for You

So, how many miles should be on a used car? The short answer: it depends. There’s no universal threshold that applies to every vehicle, but using 12,000 miles per year as a guideline is a smart starting point. A 5-year-old car with 60,000 miles is generally in good shape, while one with 100,000 miles may still be reliable if it’s been well cared for.

The real key is looking beyond the odometer. Evaluate the car’s age, service history, driving conditions, and overall condition. A high-mileage car with a clean bill of health can be a fantastic value, while a low-mileage car with hidden problems can turn into a money pit.

Remember, buying a used car is about finding the right balance between cost, reliability, and your personal needs. Don’t let mileage scare you away from a great deal—or lure you into a bad one. With the right knowledge and a little due diligence, you can drive away in a used car that’s built to last.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 100,000 miles too much for a used car?

Not necessarily. Many modern cars are designed to last well beyond 100,000 miles, especially if they’ve been properly maintained. Brands like Toyota and Honda often reach 200,000 miles or more. Focus on service history and overall condition rather than mileage alone.

What’s the ideal mileage for a 5-year-old used car?

A 5-year-old car with under 60,000 miles is generally considered low-mileage and a good find. This averages 12,000 miles per year, which aligns with the national average. However, a car with 70,000 miles but excellent maintenance records can still be a smart buy.

Can a car with 150,000 miles be reliable?

Yes, if it’s been well-maintained. Many trucks and SUVs, like the Toyota Tacoma or Ford F-150, are known for lasting 200,000+ miles. Check for recent major services, clean interior/exterior, and a smooth test drive to assess reliability.

Why would a used car have very low mileage?

Low mileage could mean the car was rarely driven—perhaps by an elderly owner, stored for long periods, or used as a second vehicle. While appealing, extremely low mileage can lead to issues like dry seals, battery failure, or fuel degradation.

Should I avoid a car with high mileage but low price?

Not automatically, but proceed with caution. A low price on a high-mileage car could indicate hidden problems. Always get a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report to uncover potential issues before buying.

How do I check if a car’s mileage is accurate?

Use a vehicle history report (like Carfax or AutoCheck) to check for odometer rollback alerts. Compare mileage across service records, inspections, and previous listings. Inconsistent numbers could indicate tampering.