Shopping for a used car today is exciting as it’s easy to get a model within a comfortable price range. There are a lot of used cars available on the market and some are from top manufactures like Toyota and Honda. Just remember that when buying a used car, there are risks. However, you can minimize your risk by considering certain criteria when looking at a used car with high mileage. Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking at a used car with high mileage.
Asking Price
Going for a used car with high mileage can save you quite a bit of money. Research the asking price of used vehicles within the exact mileage of the car you’re considering to get an idea of its asking price. Even if it’s a reasonable price, you should try to negotiate the price down further. You may be able to get a better asking price if you point out parts that will need to be replaced or maintenance that will need to be performed. This will affect the overall price of the car, so it’s a good idea to negotiate.
History Report
Several providers offer reports detailing the history of the vehicle’s previous owners. A history report will include how many people have owned the vehicle, its maintenance reports, any accidents, and other claims, such as services to address manufacturer recalls. If the used car you’re looking at has been in an accident or has had a salvage title, it’s probably best to consider getting another car to avoid any future issues. A used vehicle with only one or two previous owners and that has been maintained by professional mechanics is a car worth considering.
It’s important to consider the area the car was driven as well. If it was primarily driven in places with harsh winters, snow and salt could have caused parts to corrode and rust. While you can always do an inspection for corroded and rusted parts, it’s usually a good idea to start looking at another used car. Replacing these parts will just add to the overall price of the car.
Inspect the Vehicle’s Interior and Exterior
Before you go on a test drive, look at the undercarriage and engine for rust, leaks, and holes. Start by inspecting the body and detecting all damages, noting the most significant ones, such as uneven doors and a hood that does not align properly. Take time to inspect the interior of the vehicle for its cleanliness and overall condition. The condition of the seats is vital as it determines how comfortable the car is. Contact a professional mechanic to inspect it before buying it and ensure they check the engine and transmission and look for chassis or suspension problems that might affect the vehicle’s usage.
A car with high mileage but that is in good condition visually is a sign that it has been well-taken care of by its previous owners. They likely took just as good care of the working components, such as the engine and transmission. However, it’s always a good idea to check these components too.
You’ll want to check for wear and tear on parts like brakes, belts, suspensions, hoses, and electrical systems. These parts will likely be pretty worn down on cars with higher mileage, so it’s important to have them checked. You can have these parts replaced, but just be sure to take into account the age of the vehicle. Some parts may be hard to find or they may be costly.
There are some repairs that you can expect if you’re looking at a high mileage used car. For instance, some parts, like the transmission, need to be replaced after a certain number of miles. Be sure to take this into account as it could add to the total cost of the car.
You’ll also want to take into account the maintenance schedule. Manufacturer’s recommended scheduled maintenance for 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles, and 90,000 miles. If the car you’re looking at is anywhere near these mileage points, you’ll want to take it in for maintenance. Before you do, you can get a quote to see if it’s within your budget as this price will be added on to the overall car cost. The 90,000-mile maintenance check is usually the most expensive, so keep that in mind when looking for used cars.
Productive Miles
Just because a car has high mileage, doesn’t mean it’s less dependable. In fact, some car manufacturers build cars that can last for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance.
It’s important to keep in mind that some types of miles are easier on cars than others. Highways are much easier on cars than city driving which has lots of stops. This means that newer cars with high mileage could be in better shape than older cars with low mileage. Cars with low mileage don’t get consistent lubrication and have fewer chances to burn off carbon build-up. Higher mileage cars are usually more lubricated, so they don’t experience the same issues.
Test Drive
One of the most important things to look for when buying a car with high mileage is its performance. Take it on a test drive on the highway to gauge its handling. Accelerate and decelerate to test the brake pads and speed. Change lanes multiple times to test the steering and alignment of the vehicle.
Even though the vehicle might have performed exceptionally well on the test drive, continue the car’s inspection by checking on the coolant and radiator for any leaks after a lengthy drive. Inspect the engine for any odors and smoke to ensure that there are no hidden surprises.
Difference in Pricing
There might be two used cars of the same make and model and that are manufactured in the same year but have different prices. The issue might not be the mileage but the care of the vehicle from their previous owner. Make sure to always look at the vehicle report and request documentation proving that it has been maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.
High Mileage Used Cars Can Be a Great Choice for Your Budget
If you’re looking at used cars, know that cars with high mileage can still be dependable. A lot of times these cars are in great working condition from reliable manufacturers and may need a few parts replaced or scheduled maintenance. Just be sure to do your research on the car’s history and the model and make type, and you should be able to make an informed decision about the car you’re considering. By thoroughly assessing the vehicle and ensuring it has been well taken care of, you can get a reliable vehicle at an affordable price. With all of the used cars available on the market, you’re sure to find one that suits your preferences and your budget.
