Is 100k miles too much for a used car?

There is no one answer as to what counts as too many miles on a used car. This will vary on the age and make of the vehicle. Firstly, you’ll need to put that 100k miles into the context of the car’s age. Average mileage on a vehicle will usually be in the range of 7,000-12,000 miles per year.

If the vehicle is only a few years old and already has 100k miles on the clock, it has seen a lot of usage and may be experiencing higher levels of wear and tear, which could quickly become costly through repairs. So, if we’re asking ‘is 100k miles a lot for a used car’ in relation to a newer vehicle, the answer could very well be, ‘yes’.

If the vehicle has been used for over 10 years, you are potentially getting a much better deal. 100k broken down over 15 years, for example, means the car has been driven less than 7,000 miles a year. However, a more modern vehicle also comes with its own technological advancements, so a 2018 car with 100k miles would potentially drive far better than a model from 2012.

Is a high mileage car worth buying?

Ultimately, you will need to research the different car models and how well they run after reaching 100k miles. If you have a specific car in your sights, you might want to ask about its service history and any accidents or issues from the previous owner.

The lower price and slower depreciation can make high mileage used cars attractive to drivers. A car that goes from 10,000 miles to 30,000 miles will depreciate more than one going from 100k to 120k, for example.

However, they come with many risks – including the lack of a valid warranty and the higher potential for wear and tear. They’re also less likely to be accepted for car financing. Whilst cars with mileage over 100k may be just right for some motorists, lower mileage vehicles come with a level of security that many drivers can’t ignore.

If you’re interested in financing an up-to-date low-mileage vehicle, why not get a car finance quote to get the ball rolling today?