Evaluating Used Cars: What Do Mileage Thresholds Odometer Reveal?
Evaluating Used Cars: What Do Mileage Thresholds Odometer Reveal?

Evaluating Used Cars: What Do Mileage Thresholds Odometer Reveal?

November 29, 2024

Mileage is an important factor to consider when evaluating the condition of a pre-owned car. The most common way to know a vehicle’s mileage is to check its odometer reading. A car’s mileage has a significant influence on its value in the used car market. Hence it is essential to understand the significance and implications of a car’s mileage.

Evaluating mileage in used cars

Mileage thresholds

Mileage is commonly used as an indicator of the extent of wear and tear a vehicle has experienced. Generally, higher mileage indicates that the vehicle has been used extensively which would translate into more widespread wear and tear. Such vehicles would require more maintenance and repairs. However, it would not be wise to only consider mileage when deciding the value of a car. The Mileage levels generally used to indicate a car’s condition in the used car market are. Cars with mileage ranging between 15,000 to under 20,000 km/year are considered good buys in the used car market. Cars with an average mileage of less than 15,000 km/year are considered low-mileage vehicles while cars with an average mileage exceeding 20,000 kilometers per year are considered high-mileage vehicles.

Low mileage vehicles

In the used car market, low-mileage vehicles find more buyers since such vehicles will have less wear and tear and a longer lifespan. However, you also need to consider how old the vehicle is along with its mileage. A vehicle that is several years old but has a low mileage could have long periods of being parked in a garage which could cause problems such as rusting, corrosion, and dried-up seals.

High mileage

While most car buyers would not prefer a high-mileage vehicle, not all high-mileage cars should be considered bad investments. Certain cars that have been well cared for and serviced regularly can still be reliable with high mileage. High-mileage vehicles generally cost less in the used car market. If you have thoroughly inspected the vehicle, checked its service history, and completed the test drive with no problem at all, then there is no harm in investing in a high-mileage vehicle. However, you should remember that such vehicles may not have a long lifespan.

Factors to be considered together with mileage

Merely considering a vehicle’s mileage is not a good way to judge its roadworthiness and condition. Mileage must be considered along with certain other factors

Vehicle maintenance records

Vehicle maintenance records document the service and maintenance performed on a vehicle and can give you confidence that a high-mileage vehicle has been well cared for by its previous owners.

Previous usage

How a car was used by its previous owners will determine the extent of wear and tear on the vehicle irrespective of its mileage. For instance, a high-mileage vehicle that has mainly been used on highways may display less wear and tear than a low-mileage vehicle driven on city roads in stop-and-go traffic.

Ownership history

Generally, a vehicle with fewer owners will be better cared for than one that has been frequently bought and sold, irrespective of the mileage.

Odometer fraud

Due to the great importance placed on mileage readings to determine the value of a used car, unscrupulous sellers often take advantage of this and tamper with the odometer by rolling it back to display a lower mileage. This allows them to quote a higher price for the vehicle. Odometer fraud can be detected through a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle and by obtaining its vehicle history.

It is apparent that one needs to look beyond odometer readings to determine the value of a car in the used car market. While the odometer reading offers valuable insights on a vehicle’s condition it cannot be used as the only indicator. A comprehensive assessment of the vehicle’s structural, mechanical, and electrical components together with a test drive and scrutiny of its history are also essential. This will ensure you make an informed decision and purchase a vehicle in perfect condition.

AUTO LEVEL: YOUR TRUSTED PRE-OWNED CAR DEALERSHIP IN THE UAE

We are Auto Level, your trusted partner for a pre-owned car purchase in the UAE. We provide superior quality luxury used cars at affordable prices. Whether you are looking for a high-end luxurious Mercedes or the sturdy durability of a Toyota, we have everything you need. All the vehicles in our inventory are of the right mileage to give you the best value for your money. You don’t have to worry about verifying the odometer reading as we’ve done it for you. Rely on us for a stress-free used car purchase experience. You can book your test drive by calling 80053835.