What is High Mileage For a Used Car?

There’s a reason so many drivers in Phoenix turn to used cars. For starters, you’re getting more value for your money. A vehicle that’s just a few years old often comes with modern features—think advanced safety systems, infotainment screens, and fuel-efficient engines—without the brand-new price tag. Depreciation hits hardest in the first couple of years, so buying used means someone else has already absorbed that cost.

Another advantage? Variety. At Coulter Camelback Buick GMC, our lot is filled with everything from family SUVs to work-ready trucks. You can compare different models, trims, and years side by side, which makes it easier to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Mileage is important, but it’s not the only factor. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Maintenance history: A car with high mileage but consistent service records is often more reliable than a low-mileage vehicle that’s been neglected.
• Ownership: Fewer owners usually means less wear and tear. A single-owner vehicle with documented care is a strong find.
• Condition: Look beyond the odometer. Check the cabin, exterior, and under the hood. Rust, leaks, or unusual noises can be red flags.
• Warranty options: Many dealerships, including Coulter Camelback Buick GMC, offer certified pre-owned vehicles with extended warranties for added peace of mind.

Here’s where things get interesting. A five-year-old car with 100,000 miles might sound like a lot, but if those miles were mostly highway, the wear could be minimal. On the flip side, a ten-year-old car with only 50,000 miles might have spent too much time sitting idle, which can lead to issues like dried-out seals or battery problems.

So, what’s considered high mileage? Traditionally, the benchmark has been around 100,000 miles. But thanks to better engineering and longer-lasting parts, many modern vehicles can easily reach 200,000 miles with proper care. That means age and maintenance often matter just as much—if not more—than the raw number on the odometer.

This is the big question. What is a lot of miles on a car? It depends on the make, model, and driving history. For example, trucks and SUVs built for durability often handle higher mileage better than smaller commuter cars. A vehicle with 150,000 miles might still have plenty of life left if it’s been well-maintained.

When customers ask, “Is high mileage good or bad?” the answer is: it’s not automatically bad. High mileage can mean the car was dependable enough to be driven often. The key is how those miles were accrued and whether the vehicle was maintained during that period.

There isn’t a single cutoff number, but here’s a practical way to think about it. The average driver puts about 12,000–15,000 miles on a car each year. If you’re looking at a vehicle with mileage far above that average for its age, it’s worth asking questions. Was it used for long commutes? Road trips? Business purposes? High miles on a car don’t necessarily mean it’s worn out, but they do tell you you’ll want to pay closer attention to the service history.

At Coulter Camelback Buick GMC, our team helps customers weigh these factors. A car with 120,000 miles might be a great buy if it’s been appropriately maintained, while another with 80,000 miles but spotty records could be riskier. It’s all about context.

Mileage matters, but it’s only part of the story. When shopping for a used car, think about the bigger picture: age, condition, maintenance, and how the vehicle fits your needs. Today, many cars are built to last well beyond what was once considered “high mileage.” The best way to know if a vehicle is right for you? Take it for a test drive, review its history, and talk with a trusted dealership like Coulter Camelback Buick GMC in Phoenix.