Are Low-Mileage Cars Always The Best Choice? (PDF)

One of the most difficult aspects of buying a used car is figuring out how much it might cost. Mileage is an important thing to consider since it influences how much the car will be worth – so many people think that cars with low mileage are more valuable than high-mileage vehicles, and they’ll last longer.

Do you want a low-mileage car? Low-mileage cars are usually in good condition, but that’s not always the case. One exception is older vehicles that have low mileage. You should be wary of any car that is 10 years or older with a low number of miles on it.

When cars are not driven regularly, they’ll more than likely not be well maintained. Cars that sit around for long periods of time can also suffer from mechanical issues with the wiring and metal parts becoming corroded. Rubber hoses, cords, and other rubber fittings can become stiff or brittle too as will electrical systems.

When evaluating a car, another thing to consider is the age of the tires. The tread may look good, but it can actually have flat spots from sitting in storage. More concerning is they may have dry rot on the inside. Tires have date codes that will help you determine if the tires need replacing.

It can be tough for cars to go a long time without being driven. When they aren’t, problems could arise. It’s possible for a used car to have low mileage and need immediate mechanical maintenance. Non-use isn’t your friend unless you take special steps to ensure the vehicle is regularly exercised and lubricated. Because of this, it’s important to inspect any old car with relatively low mileage.