Deciding to buy a car doesn't have to be an impulsive decision, especially if you opt for a used model. It is well known that the value of a vehicle decreases as it is used and its mileage increases. Some see this as a good opportunity, while others are skeptical about the idea of buying a car that has already covered many kilometers. Let's find out the pros and cons of buying a used car with high mileage.
When is a high mileage car considered?
In Italy, the average age of a vehicle is approximately 10,6 years. Traveling around 12.000 km per year, a petrol car could therefore travel around 127.200 km, while a diesel model will reach 190.800 km when it reaches the maximum age at which it loses value. As you may have understood, everything depends on the type of vehicle you have, but we can consider that in Italy, the mileage is high when it exceeds 100.000 km for a petrol car and 150.000 km for a diesel car.
Advantages of buying a high mileage used car
A low priced car
It is natural that a car that has already covered more than 150.000 km has seen its value decrease over the years. Normally, the price of such a used car is reduced to 1/10 of its initial cost. If you don't have a very large budget and are not very demanding in terms of performance, you can opt for used models with high mileage. On carVertical, you can receive assistance in choosing your car.
A long-lasting car
High mileage used cars are definitely tough and durable. These are vehicles that have already covered many kilometers and have lasted for years. Despite some repairs that have been necessary, they have managed to remain solid over time.
Low maintenance costs
High mileage used cars do not generate high repair and maintenance costs. The reason is that they are usually less technological models and many parts have probably already been replaced. They do not generate technical difficulties which can increase the cost of the repair.
Disadvantages of Buying a High Mileage Used Car
Performance declining over the years
Used cars do not perform as well as when they were new. No wonder. The more kilometers they travel, the greater the risk that their mechanics may fail. The cost of replacing wearing parts could be high, at least for those that have not yet been changed.
Potentially uncertain duration
Often, it is impossible for the buyer to know the original condition of the car, so it is difficult to predict its lifespan. This can lead to great disappointment if the used car offered for sale was not already in good condition before it was put on the market.
