When Is a Used Car Too Old? Balancing Years and Mileage for Smart Used Car Buying

Buying a used car can be a smart investment—if you know what to look for. But how old is too old for a used car? And how many miles is too much? If you’re asking these questions, you’re not alone. At Kunes Auto Group, we help drivers every day strike the right balance between age, mileage, and value to find reliable pre-owned vehicles that fit both budget and lifestyle.

Many buyers are having trouble finding affordable new cars due to high prices and limited availability, which is why used cars are in high demand.

Shopping for a used car is an exciting opportunity, but it’s important to approach the process with careful consideration. One of the first factors most buyers look at is mileage—a lower mileage car often seems like the best choice. However, mileage is just one piece of the puzzle. The maintenance history of the vehicle, its age, and how well it’s been cared for are just as crucial in determining whether a used car is a smart investment.

For example, a well maintained car with higher mileage can sometimes be a better option than a lower mileage car that hasn’t received regular maintenance. A thorough maintenance history means the car has likely had timely oil changes, inspections, and repairs, which can extend its life and reliability. On the other hand, a mileage car that looks good on paper but has skipped essential services may end up costing you more in expensive repairs down the road.

For example, a well maintained car with higher mileage can sometimes be a better option than a lower mileage car that hasn’t received regular maintenance. A thorough maintenance history means the car has likely had timely oil changes, inspections, and repairs, which can extend its life and reliability. On the other hand, a mileage car that looks good on paper but has skipped essential services may end up costing you more in expensive repairs down the road.

When shopping for a used car, it’s also wise to consider the total cost of ownership. Maintenance, repairs, and potential unexpected costs should all fit within your budget. Take the time to research the market value of the car you’re interested in, compare prices, and look for examples of similar vehicles to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

Don’t forget the importance of a test drive—it’s your chance to check how the car feels on the road and spot any issues that might not be obvious at first glance. By weighing all these factors—mileage, maintenance history, age, cost, and overall condition—you’ll be better equipped to find a reliable used car that meets your needs and offers great value for your money.

There is no hard-and-fast rule for determining whether age or mileage is more important when evaluating a used car. The debate between years vs. mileage comes down to how the vehicle was driven and maintained. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Mileage is a key factor that reflects wear-and-tear on mechanical components.
• Age affects things like rubber seals, electronics, and body condition—even if the car wasn’t driven much.

Two cars with the same mileage can be quite different when compared, depending on how they were driven and maintained.

For example, you might expect a car to accumulate about 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. However, this is just a guideline, and other factors such as maintenance history and overall condition also play a significant role in determining a car's value and reliability.

• A 5–7-year-old car with under 100,000 miles is often the sweet spot for value and dependability.
• A 10-year-old car may still have life left if it’s been properly maintained and has lower mileage.

However, buyers should realize that a low mileage car is not always better than high mileage cars—maintenance history and storage conditions are just as important when assessing a vehicle’s true value and reliability.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but most experts agree:

• Cars over 15 years old are likely to require more frequent repairs—even if mileage is low.
• Vehicles under 10 years old with a strong maintenance history are often a good bet.

An older car or older vehicle can still be a good buy if it is a well maintained vehicle with complete maintenance records. Talking to the previous owner can provide valuable insights into how the car was cared for, including whether it was kept in a garage.

Always check:

• Vehicle history report
• Service records
• Maintenance records
• Number of previous owners
• Whether the car was kept in a garage
• Known recalls or common reliability issues for that model year

Mileage thresholds to consider:

• Under 60,000 miles = Low mileage, generally reliable and typically results in less wear on the vehicle's components
• 60,000–100,000 miles = Normal range for a 5–8-year-old car
• Over 120,000 miles = High mileage, but still viable if well cared for

Buying a high-mileage used car? Look for:

• Consistent oil change records
• Timing belt or chain replacement
• Transmission service history
• Engine condition, including signs of wear or leaks
• Have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough inspection to check for hidden issues

You might find a 10-year-old car with only 50,000 miles, but low mileage isn’t always better. Driving conditions, such as whether the car was mostly driven on the highway or in the city, can significantly affect its wear and tear. A low mileage car with mostly highway miles may have experienced less wear than one used primarily for short city trips. A car that’s rarely driven may have:

• Dry-rotted tires
• A drained battery
• Rust or corrosion from sitting idle

That’s why a reliable used car under 100,000 miles with a consistent maintenance history usually offers better peace of mind.

Before buying, use this used car maintenance checklist:

• Brakes, rotors, and suspension
• Tires (age and tread depth)
• Fluid condition (oil, transmission, coolant)
• Belts and rubber hoses (check for cracks or wear)
• Interior wear and electronics
• Signs of leaks or rust
• Safety features (ensure airbags, ABS, and other systems are functioning)

If you’re wondering whether to buy a 10-year-old car, consider:

• The make and model’s reputation for longevity
• Whether it’s certified pre-owned or from a reputable dealer like Kunes
• Availability of warranty options or vehicle protection plans
• How many dollars you are willing to spend on potential repairs, as high repair costs can impact the overall value of your investment

Many Toyota, Honda, Ford, and Jeep models are known for lasting 200,000+ miles with proper care.

Looking for the best value used cars in 2025? Aim for:

• Age: 3–7 years
• Mileage: 30,000–90,000 miles

This range often offers a balance of affordability, safety, and dependability.

At Kunes Auto Group, we make buying a used car easy and transparent. You’ll get:

• A wide selection of certified pre-owned vehicles
• Thorough multi-point inspections
• Financing options for all credit types
• Help from friendly, knowledgeable staff who want you to drive away confident

Ready to find a dependable vehicle that fits your lifestyle and budget? Shop our full used car inventory or stop by your local Kunes dealership today.