When shopping for a used car, mileage is often one of the first things buyers look at. While the number on the odometer can tell you how much a vehicle has been driven, it doesn’t tell the whole story. A well-maintained car with higher mileage can often be a better purchase than a low-mileage vehicle that has been poorly looked after.
If you’re researching what to look for when buying or selling a vehicle, you’ll find plenty of helpful advice in our valuation guidance hub, covering everything from vehicle history checks to ownership costs.
Why Does Mileage Matter?
Mileage provides a useful indication of how much use a vehicle has had throughout its lifetime.
Generally speaking, higher mileage means:
- More wear on mechanical components.
- Greater likelihood of replacement parts being needed.
- Increased servicing requirements.
- Potentially lower resale value.
However, mileage should always be considered alongside factors such as servicing, maintenance records and overall condition.
A car that’s covered motorway miles and been serviced regularly may be in significantly better condition than a low-mileage vehicle that’s only been driven on short journeys.
What Is The Average Mileage For A Used Car?
In the UK, the average private vehicle covers around 7,000–8,000 miles per year, although this varies depending on how the vehicle is used.
For example:
- Company cars often accumulate much higher annual mileage.
- City cars used for short journeys may cover considerably fewer miles.
- Diesel vehicles frequently record higher annual mileage due to longer-distance driving.
Rather than focusing purely on the total mileage, compare it against the vehicle’s age.
For example:
| Vehicle Age | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|
| 3 years | 21,000–24,000 miles |
| 5 years | 35,000–40,000 miles |
| 10 years | 70,000–80,000 miles |
Large differences either above or below these figures simply mean you should investigate the vehicle’s history more carefully.
What Is Considered High Mileage?
There’s no official definition of a high-mileage car.
Generally:
- Under average annual mileage = Low mileage
- Around average annual mileage = Typical mileage
- Significantly above average = High mileage
Many modern vehicles can comfortably exceed 100,000 miles if they’ve been maintained correctly.
Some cars continue to perform reliably well beyond 150,000 miles, particularly those with comprehensive service histories.
Is High Mileage Always A Bad Thing?
Not necessarily.
A higher-mileage vehicle that’s received regular servicing and preventative maintenance may offer excellent value for money.
Things to look for include:
- Full service history.
- Evidence of routine maintenance.
- Timing belt or chain replacement where applicable.
- Regular oil changes.
- MOT history showing consistent maintenance.
Mileage alone should never determine whether you buy a car.
Can Low Mileage Be A Warning Sign?
Surprisingly, yes.
Very low mileage isn’t always an advantage.
Potential concerns include:
Lack of Regular Use
Cars that spend long periods parked can develop issues including:
- Flat batteries
- Corroded brakes
- Tyre flat spots
- Perished rubber seals
Missed Servicing
Some owners assume low mileage means less maintenance is required.
In reality, servicing schedules are based on both mileage and time.
Short Journey Driving
Vehicles used mainly for short trips often experience:
- Increased engine wear
- Carbon build-up
- Oil contamination
- Reduced fuel efficiency
Always review the service history alongside the mileage.
What Else Should You Check Besides Mileage?
Mileage is only one piece of the puzzle.
When buying a used car, also consider:
Service History
A fully documented maintenance record is often more valuable than low mileage alone.
MOT History
Previous MOT results can reveal recurring faults or advisory notices.
Vehicle Condition
Inspect:
- Tyres
- Interior wear
- Paintwork
- Suspension
- Brakes
These often provide a better indication of how the vehicle has been treated.
Number of Previous Owners
Fewer owners isn’t always better, but frequent ownership changes can sometimes warrant additional investigation.
If you’re planning to inspect a vehicle yourself, you might be interested in our Used Car Buying Guide, which explains the key areas you should examine before making a purchase.
Does Mileage Affect Resale Value?
Yes.
Mileage remains one of the biggest factors influencing resale values.
Buyers often compare vehicles of similar age and naturally gravitate towards examples with lower mileage.
However, condition and maintenance can significantly offset higher mileage.
A clean, well-maintained car with excellent history often sells more easily than a neglected low-mileage example.
Is Mileage More Important Than Age?
Both matter.
An older vehicle with moderate mileage and excellent maintenance can represent better value than a newer vehicle with poor servicing.
When assessing a used car, always consider:
- Age
- Mileage
- Service history
- MOT history
- Overall condition
- Ownership history
Looking at all these factors together provides a much clearer picture of the vehicle’s true value.
If you’re considering a larger family vehicle, we looked into some of the Best SUVs For Families 2023 and found some of the UK’s most practical and reliable used SUV options.
Final Thoughts
Mileage is an important consideration when buying a used car, but it should never be viewed in isolation. A vehicle’s maintenance history, condition, ownership record and servicing are often just as important as the number displayed on the odometer.
Taking the time to assess the complete picture will help you make a more informed buying decision and reduce the risk of expensive repairs later on.
Thinking Of Batting Off Your Car?
Whether your car has covered 20,000 miles or 120,000 miles, Jamjar makes selling it quick, easy and hassle-free. Compare offers from trusted UK buyers, receive a competitive valuation, and complete the entire process online with no hidden fees and no obligation to sell.
Simply enter your registration number, into our free online valuation tool, and watch the offers roll in.