When shopping for a used car, mileage is one of the most important—and misunderstood—factors buyers consider. A common question we hear from customers across Kokomo, Carmel, Fishers, and Lafayette is: “How many miles is too many for a used car?”
While mileage does matter, it's only part of the story. At QC Auto Group, we specialize in low-mileage, late-model used vehicles that offer great value without the guesswork. In this post, we’ll break down what qualifies as "good mileage," what other factors matter just as much (or more), and how to make the smartest decision when buying your next vehicle.
What Is Considered Good Mileage?
The average driver in the U.S. puts about 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year on a car. Using that figure, a 3-year-old vehicle with fewer than 45,000 miles would generally be considered low mileage and desirable.
Here’s a quick reference by vehicle age:
1 year old: Under 15,000 miles
2 years old: Under 30,000 miles
3 years old: Under 45,000 miles
5 years old: Under 75,000 miles
7+ years old: Under 100,000 miles
Keep in mind, a car with slightly higher mileage isn't necessarily a bad buy—especially if it has been well-maintained. That’s why at QC Auto Group, we don't just look at mileage—we focus on vehicle quality, maintenance records, and overall condition.
Why Low Mileage Matters (and When It Doesn’t)
Low mileage is often appealing for several reasons:
Less wear and tear on the engine and components
Higher resale value down the road
Potentially fewer repairs in the near future
But here’s the catch—low mileage doesn’t guarantee reliability. A poorly maintained car with 40,000 miles could be in worse shape than a well-cared-for vehicle with 80,000 miles.
That’s why all of our inventory goes through a multi-point inspection process before hitting the lot. We also provide access to vehicle history reports so you can buy with confidence.
Browse our latest inventory of low-mileage, high-quality used cars in Kokomo and surrounding cities.
Other Key Factors to Consider Beyond Mileage
When you're shopping for a used car, look at the full picture. These factors are just as critical as mileage:
1. Maintenance History
Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections are more important than the odometer alone. At QC Auto Group, we verify that our vehicles are properly serviced before sale.
2. Previous Ownership and Use
Was the car a daily commuter or only used on weekends? One-owner vehicles that were gently driven often offer the most value.
3. Vehicle Age
A 10-year-old car with 80,000 miles may have experienced a longer period of aging wear—even if it wasn’t driven daily.
4. Type of Miles Driven
Highway miles are easier on a car than stop-and-go city driving. A car with 90,000 mostly highway miles may have less wear than one with 60,000 urban miles.
5. Vehicle Make and Model
Some brands are known for longevity. For example, Hondas, Toyotas, Subarus, and Mazdas often exceed 200,000 miles with proper care.
Need help evaluating a vehicle’s history? Use our Vehicle Finder service to request specific models with verified background checks.
How Many Miles Is Too Many?
This depends on your budget and how long you plan to keep the vehicle. Here are some general rules:
Under 60,000 miles: Ideal for long-term ownership
60,000–100,000 miles: Good value, especially if maintenance is well-documented
100,000–150,000 miles: Budget-friendly, but be prepared for maintenance and repairs
150,000+ miles: Only recommended if the price is low and the condition is exceptional
If you’re unsure about what makes sense for your needs, contact our team or visit us at our Kokomo dealership.
Should You Avoid High-Mileage Cars?
Not always. In fact, some high-mileage vehicles—especially those maintained by a single owner—can be a smart buy. These vehicles often:
Our team at QC Auto Group can help you decide whether a high-mileage vehicle is worth the trade-off based on your intended use and budget.
Buying Low-Mileage Used Cars at QC Auto Group
All of our vehicles are carefully selected for quality, condition, and mileage. Here’s how we support your used car purchase:
We offer the transparency and support you need to make a smart, informed purchase.
Tips to Get the Most Out of a Used Car
Once you've purchased a used vehicle—especially one with higher mileage—regular maintenance is the key to keeping it running smoothly:
Change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles
Rotate tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles
Stay on top of fluid checks, belts, and brakes
Fix small issues before they become major repairs
Want more vehicle care tips? Be sure to check our About Us and blog section for future maintenance articles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best mileage range for a used car?
The sweet spot is usually between 30,000–60,000 miles. These vehicles have plenty of life left and often cost significantly less than new models.
Is a car with over 100,000 miles worth buying?
Yes—if it’s in great shape, priced fairly, and has solid maintenance records. Many vehicles today are built to last well beyond 150,000 miles.
Do low-mileage used cars cost more?
Generally, yes. But you’re also getting better value, longer usability, and less need for repairs.
Can I get financing for a higher-mileage vehicle?
Yes! We offer flexible financing and can help you secure a loan for vehicles with a wide range of mileage.
How can I estimate my monthly payment?
Use our Loan Calculator to plug in vehicle price, loan term, and down payment for a quick estimate.
Final Thoughts
Mileage is an important factor in buying a used car—but it’s not the only thing that matters. With the right combination of condition, service history, and pricing, you can find a high-value used vehicle that meets your needs for years to come.
At QC Auto Group, we help buyers in Kokomo, Anderson, Logansport, Westfield, and beyond make smart, confident car-buying decisions.
Visit Us today or Contact Us to speak with a member of our team.
