LONGEVITY OF USED CARS – HOW LONG CAN EXPECT THEM TO LAST?
Posted Saturday, Sep 30, 2023
Did you know that the average used car can easily live past the 100,000-mile mark? This wasn’t always the case in the past because the technology simply wasn’t advanced enough. Times have changed and a new era of resilient and durable cars rule the tarmac.
This doesn’t mean that a brand-new car won’t lose its value almost overnight - that is a fact of life. There’s a reason why financial experts don’t consider vehicles to be an instrument of investment. However, it can be safe to assume that used cars are much more durable than ever before.
How Long Can I Expect a Used Car to Last?
Experts believe that modern technology and highly advanced powertrains allow used cars to reach a mileage of 200,000 or more as long as they are well-maintained. This means that even if you buy a used car that has already accrued 100,000 miles on it, and you drove it for around 10,000 miles per year, you are still getting another 8 to 10 years out of that car.
With that said, if a used car has reached 100,000 miles, it is important to thoroughly inspect it before buying it. This is because, by this time, some of its parts will be subject to heavy wear and tear. It is important to stay on top of regular maintenance during a car’s early years because accumulating more mileage may result in significant issues to the car requiring costly repairs.
Maintenance is more important than you think. For example, if a used car has accumulated 150,000 miles but was driven carefully and underwent routine maintenance, it will be in better condition than a car that has 100,000 miles and missed maintenance.
Note that this rule need not apply to cars that were manufactured before 2000. If you are buying a car that was manufactured before the 2000s, then it is best to get inspected by a professional mechanic.
Things You Should Consider When Buying a Used Car
It is important to consider how well a used car was cared for before buying it. Let’s take a look at a handful of factors that you should take into account before buying a used car.
Make and Model of the Car
Although you can expect most modern used cars to last for a long time, it is worth paying attention to details such as the make and model of the car, especially if it has accumulated over 100,000 miles.
It is also important to look up maintenance trends, feedback from drivers, and a history of recalls. Note that electric vehicles are also very durable and capable of going well past the 100,000-mile mark, but you will want to get the battery and electrical system thoroughly inspected.
Service History
Nearly every car requires regular oil changes every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or around once every 12 months. Of course, this does not apply to electric vehicles. Routine service and inspections are extremely important but their frequency is based on the make and model of the car. Ideally, you should be able to review the service records of the vehicles to see that it has undergone proper care.
Additionally, it is important to consider the number of owners that the used car has had before you bought it. If you bought the car from a dealership like Wind Rider Auto Outlet, you are more likely to get a complete record of its history compared to cars that have been passed around among private sellers.
Maintenance History of the Car
Car parts will be subject to heavy wear and tear. In fact, it’s only a matter of time before these car parts require servicing and replacement. For example, brake pads will require replacement anywhere from 40,000 to 80,000 miles and timing belts may need to be replaced right around the 50,000 mile mark. Transmission systems are much more durable and can go for around 150,000 miles before requiring replacement, but they must be serviced regularly.
Make sure to take a look at the used car’s maintenance history before buying it.
Location of the Car and its History
Did you know that the location in which the car was driven can also play a role in its longevity? Used cars may get more wear and tear from winter weather, thus requiring more care. Additionally, it may sound like an oxymoron, but used cars that have spent more time sitting idly may be in worse shape than those that are driven regularly.
It is also important to check the used car’s accident history. You can do this with the help of a VIN check or by getting a CARFAX report.
Warranty
Most manufacturers offer a warranty of up to 100,000 miles on their cars. This is a testament to the fact that the car is fairly durable. With that said, 100,000 miles can be fairly low for the modern car because they are so extensively driven these days. While most manufacturers don’t offer warranties that go past 100,000, you should look into third-party warranties for high-mileage vehicles.
Of course, these are likely to be expensive but they should protect your investment and give you peace of mind.
Wrapping Up
When buying a used car, you have to take a look at its history of servicing, maintenance, and any accidents. It is highly recommended to buy a used car from a reliable used car dealership like Wind Rider Auto Outlet instead of a private seller. This is because dealerships have usually done all the necessary homework before buying a used car, ensuring you get the best possible deal.
If you want to upgrade to a better car or simply change your old one, send your message to the experts at Wind Rider Auto Outlet. You can also sell your old car and get help with financing.
