Mileage is one of the most important factors buyers consider when evaluating a used car. It’s often one of the first questions people ask when looking at a vehicle because it gives a quick indication of how much the car has been used.

But when exactly is the right time to sell your car based on mileage?

In this guide, we’ll look at how mileage affects car values and when it might make sense to sell your vehicle.

If you’re still researching the best time to sell, you can also explore the Jamjar car selling guidance hub for more advice on preparing, valuing, and selling your car.

Why mileage matters when selling a car

Although many modern vehicles can comfortably exceed 100,000 miles, mileage still plays a major role in determining a car’s resale value.

Higher mileage typically means:

• More wear and tear on the engine and components

• A higher chance of future repairs

• Reduced appeal to some buyers

For example, two identical cars of the same model and year could have very different values if one has significantly higher mileage than the other.

Mileage is often used by buyers as a quick way to estimate how heavily a vehicle has been used and how long it might last.

Should you sell your car before 100,000 miles?

The 100,000-mile mark is often seen as a major milestone in the used car market. Many buyers view cars above this mileage as higher risk, which can reduce demand and lower resale prices.

While this doesn’t mean your car suddenly loses all its value at 100,000 miles, selling before reaching this point can sometimes help you achieve a better price.

However, the best time to sell your car can vary depending on how you use it and how long you plan to keep it.

0–30,000 miles

Cars lose value most rapidly during the first few years of ownership. The biggest depreciation typically occurs during the first year and continues until the manufacturer’s warranty period ends, which is often around three years or roughly 36,000 miles.

If your car is still relatively new and has low mileage, you will likely receive the highest resale value.

However, selling this early only makes financial sense if you prefer regularly upgrading to newer models. From a long-term cost perspective, keeping a car for several more years is usually more economical.

30,000–60,000 miles

Once a car reaches this mileage range, depreciation tends to slow down slightly compared to the early years.

Many vehicles will have had their first service by this stage, and they should still be in good overall condition if properly maintained.

This mileage range is often considered a sweet spot for used car buyers, meaning there is usually strong demand. As a result, selling your car during this period can still deliver a good resale price.

60,000–100,000 miles

Cars in this range have typically seen regular use but can still hold reasonable value, particularly if they have a good service history and remain in good condition.

Some components may begin to require replacement at this stage, such as tyres, brakes, or suspension parts. Because of this, some owners choose to sell their vehicles before maintenance costs begin to increase.

Selling in this mileage range can allow you to recover a decent amount of value while upgrading to a newer vehicle.

Over 100,000 miles

Once a car passes 100,000 miles, resale value often drops more sharply.

Many buyers searching for used cars online filter out vehicles above this mileage, which can reduce demand. Dealers and professional buyers may also offer lower prices because the car may be harder to resell.

However, this doesn’t mean your car is worthless. Many vehicles can continue running well beyond this point, particularly if they have been properly maintained.

If you want to understand how other factors affect resale value, you may also find this guide helpful on whether to sell your car or trade it in.

How to maximise your car’s value

While mileage is important, it’s not the only factor that affects your car’s value. Buyers will also consider:

• Service history

• Overall condition

• Vehicle popularity

• MOT status

• Previous ownership

Keeping up with regular maintenance and maintaining good documentation can help improve your car’s resale value regardless of mileage.

Find out how much your car is worth

If you’re thinking about selling your car, the easiest way to understand its value is to get an instant online quote.

Jamjar compares offers from trusted car buyers across the UK, helping you find the best deal quickly and easily.

You can receive multiple offers within seconds and choose the option that works best for you.

Sell your car with Jamjar

Jamjar makes selling your car quick, easy, and hassle-free. By comparing offers from a trusted network of UK car buyers, you can get the best price without the stress of negotiating or listing your car yourself.

There are no hidden fees, no obligation to sell, and the entire process can be completed online.

Whether your car has low mileage or has covered well over 100,000 miles, Jamjar can help you find the right buyer.