Experts Agree: Never Buy a Used Car With More Than 100K Miles

jetcityimage / Getty Images

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.

20 Years
Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed
by Experts

Trusted by
Millions of Readers

Today’s most reliable vehicles can rack up sky-high mileage that would have been unheard of a few generations ago and still keep plugging along. But an old benchmark still stands as the most practical answer for how many miles are too many miles when buying a used car.

High-mileage vehicles — especially famously durable models from reputable brands — can be hard to resist when paired with temptingly low asking prices. But in nearly all cases, it’s best to walk away when you see 100,000 miles or more on the odometer.

The Many Reasons Why 6 Figures Should Be a Deal-Breaker

Auto industry expert Rob Dillan laid out the primary reasons why 100,000 miles is still generally “the maximum number of miles a used car should have before it is no longer considered for purchase, regardless of reliability or price.”

Many can go much further — but you’d be unwise to roll the dice.

“Many auto experts agree that 100,000 miles is the upper limit for considering the purchase of a used car,” said Dillan. “Beyond this point, the likelihood of significant maintenance and repairs increases substantially.

“Vehicles with over 100,000 miles typically face more frequent issues with major components such as the engine, transmission and suspension. The average cost of engine repair or replacement can range from $3,000 to $8,000, while transmission repairs can cost between $1,800 and $3,400. These potential expenses can quickly outweigh any initial savings from a lower purchase price.”

But even without major repairs or catastrophic system failures, cars with six-figure mileage tend to cost more to maintain with basic upkeep.

“Frequent checkups and replacement of parts become necessary, increasing the overall cost of ownership,” said Dillan, who added that six-figure mileage can also conceal issues from miles past.

“Even with reliable models, high-mileage cars may have histories of wear and tear that aren’t immediately apparent. A vehicle with a high mileage might also have a less comprehensive service history, which can obscure potential issues.”

The Experts Agree: 100K Miles Is a Good Cutoff

Dillan is hardly alone in his analysis.

“One hundred thousand is a good stopping point for mileage when it comes to buying used cars because, after that point, many models start to need more maintenance,” said Erin Kemp, a consumer advocate. “Due to the tough life it has had, its engine and other components have experienced more wear and tear after 100,000 miles. Certain models may not need as much work as others at this point, but it’s a good general cutoff.”

Ryan Horton, founder of Truck Brigade, also agrees.

“There is no magic number of miles that a car should have before you no longer consider buying it,” he said. “But a car is considered to have high mileage with 100,000-plus miles. For someone looking for a reliable vehicle, consider cars under 100,000 miles, which are still in some cases covered by warranties to protect against any potential issues you might face.”

Shawn Miller, the senior writer at Modified Rides, adds yet another concurring voice.

“For a used car, I generally avoid anything with over 100,000 miles,” he said. “At this point, even reliable models start requiring significant maintenance and repairs, which can outweigh the initial savings.”

Remember, Mileage Tells Only Part of the Story

In most cases, 100,000 miles should be enough to walk away — but mileage is just one variable to consider.

“While the odometer gives context, so many other factors impact reliability and how long a vehicle will last,” said Todd Bialaszewski, a certified master mechanic with over 15 years of experience and the founder of Junk Car Medics.

Melanie Musson, another auto industry expert, agrees.

“The maximum number of miles depends on the type of vehicle,” she said. “A diesel truck, for example, is expected to last at least 100,000 miles longer than a similar gas-engine truck.”

Also, some models are legendary for long-term reliability and others are not.

“You can count on a Honda or Toyota to be reliable for at least 50,000 miles longer than you’d trust a similar Dodge vehicle,” said Musson.

Bialaszewski mentioned the same two famously reliable brands but added that even the most durable models require timely service.

“Miss one oil change and costly problems could arise,” he said.

It also matters how and where the car was cared for.

“If you live in a rural area, cars aren’t usually driven as hard as if you live in a city,” said Musson. “If you’re on the East Coast, where traffic density is high and roads are heavily salted all winter nearly everywhere you go, you should be leery of any vehicle with more than 100,000 miles.

“If you’re looking at a vehicle that comes from Wyoming or Montana, you can assume the miles have been primarily highway miles,” she added. “There shouldn’t be as high of a concern about rust because salt use on roadways is minimal and humidity levels are low.”

Buying a High-Mileage Car? Diligence Is Your Only Hope for Avoiding a Lemon

Conducting deep automotive research is more important than ever when shopping for a deal on a used car with a long mileage history.

“Service records are key to assessing a car’s history carefully,” said Bialaszewski. “Seeing consistent fluid and belt changes, brake work and so on builds confidence that smaller issues didn’t escalate. Even low-mileage rides aren’t risk-free without paperwork proving care.”

Thorough inspections inside and out also matter.

“Upholstery, paint, rubber and undercarriage elements reveal the driving conditions faced,” said Bialaszewski. “Prior repairs and rust need attention too to evaluate overall soundness.”

In the end, higher-mileage cars can work for buyers on a budget — but only when diligently vetted.

“Reputable brands, comprehensive paperwork spanning years and a trusted mechanic’s approval are baseline prerequisites,” said Bialaszewski. “Considering records and conditions over just numbers helps buyers find a solid long-haul option.”

Share This Article: