The Pros & Cons of Buying a High Mileage Car | My Car Credit (2024)

The answer? It depends on who you ask. Those in favour of high mileage often have a penchant for classic cars, praising the durability and cost-effectiveness of well-loved models. In contrast, low mileage lovers worry about the potential maintenance expenses and overall wear and tear that comes with large amounts of use.

Ultimately, there’s wisdom on both sides of the argument. Read on as we explore the pros and cons of high-mileage cars in more detail, to help you make the right decision.

Pros of buying a high mileage car

Cost-effective

While increased mileage on relatively new cars points to overuse, excluding an older model based on its odometer could mean you’re losing a real bargain.

Used high-mileage cars are more cost-effective on several fronts. Firstly, the initial price is dramatically reduced, and in some cases, you’ll pay less on insurance than you would for a newer model. Additionally, an older vehicle with more miles has already proven itself to be trustworthy. Thanks to the frequent lubrication and reduced carbon build-up associated with regular use, you may incur fewer maintenance costs down the line.

Depreciation

To summarise, depreciation is the amount of money a car loses over its lifetime. Like all cars, high-mileage cars depreciate. However, they don’t do so as fast as newer models. So, if you’re looking to buy and sell cars for profit, or just to get a car that keeps its value, you’re more likely to succeed with the well-driven variety.

Classic cars

Rare and unique classic cars are bound to have been around the block a few times, often racking up plenty of miles in the process. However, collectors won’t be fazed. After all, who could pass up a Subaru BRAT, Mazda MX5 or Delorean DMC-12?

Cons of buying a high mileage car

Harder to secure car finance

Mileage matters when purchasing a car on finance because once you go over 100,000 miles, lenders are hesitant to provide funding. As a result, you may get stuck with a lousy deal that costs you more money long-term.

Maintenance costs

In most cases, provided they’ve been looked after, low mileage cars are in better condition. As the miles creep up, prepare for more diligent maintenance routines to offset higher levels of wear and tear. After a certain mileage, you may also have to deal with faulty car transmissions, oil leaks and fuel pump failures.

It’s fair to say that with a high mileage car, you may have reliability issues. This isn’t ideal when it comes to getting into work on time and driving family around – no one enjoys standing on the hard shoulder waiting for the breakdown services to arrive!

New features

Newer cars come equipped with a range of impressive technology including high beams, automatic emergency brakes, adaptive cruise control and even heated steering wheels (because why not?). In contrast, older high-mileage models lack sought-after safety features and impressive new gadgetry, which could be a deal-breaker for some.

Whatever you choose, we’re here to help

At My Car Credit, we can help you to find the right finance option when purchasing a car, whatever its mileage. To find out how we can help you, give us a call on 01246 458 810 or drop us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.