Buying a High Mileage Car: What You Need to Know

High mileage does not necessarily mean a car is bad. However, it significantly influences the car's value and your decision-making process. In this article, we will explore the importance of service records, potential risks associated with buying from dealers, and what to look for when purchasing a high-mileage car.

Understanding the Importance of Service Records

Purchasing a car from a dealer or a private seller, especially one with high mileage, can be risky. The absence of service records can lead to unforeseen expenses. A prime example of this is my personal experience with a new Lexus SUV. In May 2021, I bought a used SUV, but the dealer had used liquid to hide a head gasket leak. This mistake cost me a significant amount to fix, as I had to install a new engine. This incident highlights the importance of service records.

Service records are crucial because they provide a history of the car's maintenance, repairs, and overall condition. A thorough inspection of these records can help you determine if the car is worth the purchase. If the dealer does not provide service records, it’s best to take the car to a trusted mechanic for a thorough diagnostic. This step is much cheaper than facing major repairs down the line.

My hope is to drive the car for the next five years to justify the cost. Proper maintenance and regular checks can extend the life of the vehicle, making it a cost-effective choice.

Buying from a Fleet or Used Fleet Car

Not all high-mileage cars are created equal. Buying a car that has been well-maintained by a fleet or used by a traveling salesman might be a good investment. Fleet cars are often equipped with frequent maintenance and are driven under consistent conditions, typically inter-city traffic, which is usually easier on a car. For instance, I recently bought a used Camry hybrid with 206,000 miles, primarily driven in a fleet. The car was bought at auction by a Toyota dealer and fully checked and refurbished as needed.

While the car no longer gets the original 40 mpg EPA rating, it consistently exceeds 30 mpg. My previous non-hybrid Camry, at 136,000 miles, was only getting 22-26 mpg before it died. This example shows that high mileage does not mean the car has lost all its value or performance.

Assessing a High Mileage Car: What to Look For

When considering a high-mileage car, your primary concern should be the car's maintenance history. Look for service records and inspect the car thoroughly. A well-maintained car with proper records can still be a valuable asset, regardless of mileage.

When inspecting the car, pay attention to the following:

Maintenance records: Review them to ensure the car has had regular maintenance and repairs. Clean appearance: The car should be clean, with no significant damage, except for normal wear and tear. A well-maintained car should look authentic and cared for. Brake pedal pad: Check the brake pedal pad for wear. A brake pedal pad that is worn in one area could indicate that the brakes were used frequently and aggressively. This can be a red flag for potential brake problems.

By following these steps and being attentive to the details, you can make a more informed decision when considering a high-mileage car. It’s a viable way to get a higher value car at a cheaper price, provided you do your due diligence and maintain the vehicle properly.

Conclusion

Buying a high-mileage car can be beneficial, but it requires thorough research and attention to detail. Service records, maintenance history, and a careful inspection are crucial. With the right approach, a high-mileage car can be a cost-effective and valuable addition to your fleet. Remember, the mileage itself is not the most critical factor; the condition and maintenance of the car are.