The answer to this question depends on a few different factors, including the type of model you’re looking for and how well the vehicle was cared for.

Many suggest that drivers stay away from a used car with over 100,000 miles, but this isn’t a hard and fast rule. It’s possible that a used car with over 100,000 miles that’s been regularly serviced will be a better option than a used car with less than 80,000 miles that hasn’t been serviced according to the maintenance schedule. A few important factors to keep in mind when shopping for a used car include condition, location, and usage. Learn more using our helpful guide then check out our used models under 10K, certified pre-owned models, and more!

The Smart Way to Shop for a Used Car

As mentioned above, drivers should keep in mind the usage, condition, and location of the pre-owned vehicle they’re interested in. Here’s a quick breakdown as to what each entails for drivers:

• Usage – A car driven 75,000 miles in stop and go traffic will wear down sooner than one that has racked up 75,000 miles on the open highway. Make sure that you get the previous owner’s driving history before you buy.
• Condition – Always have a certified mechanic take a look at the used vehicle to determine if there are any issues such as rust or a mechanical issue that will need to be taken care of. This cost can then be integrated into your budget.
• Location – Vehicles from an area with a dry, warm climate are under less stress than those that are driven around wet, cold climates.
• Maintenance – Check the maintenance history of the vehicle to ensure that it has been kept up to date on routine services like oil changes. An irregular service history can be a sign of expensive problems in the future.

Mileage vs. Age

Sometimes a newer car with high mileage will be a better choice than an older vehicle with low mileage. When buying a pre-owned vehicle, make sure you take these factors into account:

• A car that hasn’t been driven regularly, or that hasn’t had regular maintenance, will often have higher repair costs. Mechanical issues or problems with rubber seals and gaskets can develop if a car isn’t driven on a regular basis.
• A vehicle with a well-documented maintenance history is preferable to one that has been neglected. This could help you avoid more technical and mechanical issues as well as more expensive repairs in the future.
• Low mileage vehicles often come with a higher price tag and may not be as well cared for as an older model.

If you’re looking for a like-new model with low-mileage, you might want to consider a certified pre-owned vehicle. These models are put through vigorous testing to ensure great quality models.

Browse the Used Vehicle Inventory at DARCARS Toyota of Baltimore Today!

There’s more than just mileage to watch out for when shopping for a used car. With help from our team, you can find the used vehicle that’s right for you and your daily commutes at a more affordable price using our used vehicle specials. Looking to learn more about our certified pre-owned models, how to finance a car with bad credit, compare the Toyota Camry vs. Corolla, to check out the Toyota Highlander colors, learn about the best shopping in Baltimore, our used Highlander inventory, or want to get behind the wheel yourself? Contact us today!