Should I buy a car with high mileage?

Finding and buying a new car can be a challenging process with a lot to consider such as the make, model, whether it's 3-door or 5-door, petrol or diesel, and how old it is. Throwing in mileage to the mix doesn't make the decision any easier! But does the number of miles the car has done actually matter?

The stigma around high mileage cars has generally been negative in the past, with people avoiding them at all costs. But this just isn't true, with many cars travelling long distances being well maintained and ready to carry on going. In addition, many high-mileage cars come with a lower price tag as well as plenty of other benefits.

So, is purchasing a high-mileage car the right choice for you?

Is 100,000 miles a lot? No!

Seeing that a car has driven around 100,000 miles can be off-putting, especially if the car is only 5 years old. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't buy it. A newer car is much more resilient and robust than older vehicles so don't worry if the car you're looking to buy has higher mileage than you originally hoped.

If you do choose to buy a car with high mileage, there are some things you should consider:

• Has it always had MOTs and Services carried out properly and promptly? If it's always been well looked after, the high mileage shouldn't be an issue.
• When were the tyres and brakes last replaced? As these are the parts that need replacing most often when high mileage is racked up, it's good to know when they were last replaced.  All vehicles purchased through Carbase will be prepped to the highest standards and go through a RAC full multi-check process to ensure the tyres and brakes are up to scratch.

Benefits of high mileage

One of the main benefits of buying a car with high mileage is that it will likely have a lower price tag than a similar car with lower mileage. Ideal for those looking to spend a little less on a car, this lower price tag could help you get your dream car without breaking the bank.
If the vehicle is older, that means that you'll have more service history to look at. From the car's history, you may see that it has been serviced and had work carried out regularly, and therefore there would be less risk in purchasing it. This includes when the tyres were last replaced, brakes were checked and that it has a full clean bill of health from the last MOT.

Drawbacks of high mileage

One drawback of purchasing a car with high mileage is that there is a higher chance of things going wrong as the more miles it covered, the more chance there is of damage or parts that need replacing. However, as long as you ask a mechanic to look it over first so you're aware of any potential issues, having a high-mileage car isn't something you should worry about. You should also consider buying a car from a garage that only sells cars that meet the highest standards, such as Carbase. All our vehicles are RAC inspected so you know you can trust what you're buying.

Checks to carry out before purchasing a high-mileage car

If you decide to buy a car with high mileage, you should consider carrying out the below checks to ensure the car is fit and healthy, based on the car's lifespan. These checks include:

• General regular maintenance. Be sure to check if the car has had regular MOTs and Services throughout its life by checking the paperwork or official log book.
• Wheel alignment should be checked regularly, after 50,000 miles, the shocks and struts should also be checked.
• The car may need a cambelt replacement. They don't last forever, so depending on your vehicle manufacturer the average replacement schedule would be around every 5 years or 60,000 miles (depending on which comes first). It would be best to consult your vehicle manual or speak to your mechanic - they can advise if you need a replacement.
• New spark plugs may be needed. If not, check every 10,000 miles after 100,000 as part of your regular maintenance.
• General history check for prior accidents or damage.

But be assured, here at Carbase and Vanbase all of the above is checked and passed before hitting our forecourts! So your next vehicle is ready for you to drive away!

How we can help

If you decide that purchasing a car with slightly higher mileage is a good option, why not take a look at our range of used vehicles here at Carbase? We sell a fantastic range of cars and vans from different manufacturers, at different price points, and with a range of miles on the clock. Also, as we are a RAC Approved Dealer, all our cars are maintained and go through a RAC Multi-Point Inspection so you can rest assured they are of the highest standard.

Plus, our experienced team is on hand to help you with any queries about purchasing a new car or van from our stock, including any questions about vehicles with high mileage, so get in touch today!

FAQ

Do some models last longer?

Yes and no. There are some car manufacturers that are known for being reliable, such as Volkswagen, Toyota, Skoda and Honda. These brands offer long warranties or manufacturer guarantees as a sign their cars will last a long time. However, it's important to note that how a car is treated will impact its lifespan, so a car's manufacturer shouldn't be used as the sole indicator.

Is age or mileage more important?

This is essentially down to the buyer. A newer car with high mileage can scare some people off purchasing, but so can an older car with low mileage. There is no magical formula and instead, you should consider the pros and cons of both.

Should I be worried about buying a car with high mileage?

No, you should not be worried about buying a car with high mileage, as long as it's in good condition. If you're concerned, ask an independent mechanic you trust to look over it first. They'll be able to give you an overall review of the car's condition before you commit.