As an automotive expert with years of experience in the industry, I've had the opportunity to analyze and assess a wide range of vehicles. When it comes to determining what car mileage is considered too much, it's essential to understand that this is a nuanced topic that depends on various factors, including the make and model of the car, its maintenance history, and how it has been driven.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that cars are engineered to last a long time, and many can easily exceed 100,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. However, as cars age and accumulate mileage, certain components naturally wear out and may require replacement. This wear and tear can lead to increased maintenance costs and potentially affect the vehicle's reliability.

The average number of miles driven per year is often cited as 15,000 miles. This means that a car that is 5 years old would typically have around 75,000 miles on the odometer, which is considered average. This benchmark provides a useful reference point for evaluating a car's mileage in relation to its age.

When a car exceeds the average mileage for its age significantly, it is often labeled as a high mileage vehicle. High mileage cars can still be reliable, but they are more likely to have had significant wear on various components, such as the engine, transmission, suspension, and brakes. It's crucial for potential buyers to thoroughly inspect the maintenance records of a high mileage car to ensure that it has been well cared for.

Conversely, a car with significantly less mileage than the average for its age is considered a low mileage vehicle. These vehicles may have fewer wear-related issues, but it's still important to check their maintenance history. Sometimes, low mileage can be a red flag if the car has been sitting unused for long periods, which can lead to its own set of problems, such as fluid degradation and battery issues.

It's also worth noting that certain makes and models are known for their longevity and can handle higher mileages better than others. Luxury and high-performance cars, for example, are often built with more robust components and higher quality materials, which can contribute to their ability to withstand higher mileages.

In addition to the make and model, the driving conditions and habits of the owner play a significant role in determining the impact of mileage on a car. A car driven primarily on highways in a mild climate may show less wear than one driven in stop-and-go city traffic or in harsh weather conditions.

When evaluating a car's mileage, it's also essential to consider the quality of maintenance it has received. Regular oil changes, timely replacement of worn parts, and overall diligent care can significantly extend the life of a vehicle, regardless of its mileage.

In conclusion, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to what constitutes "too much" mileage for a car. It's a combination of factors including the car's age, maintenance history, driving conditions, and the specific make and model. As a general rule, a car with average mileage for its age is a good starting point for most buyers. However, it's always best to have a trusted mechanic inspect any used car, regardless of its mileage, to ensure that it's a sound purchase.

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Generally, 15,000 miles a year is considered an --average-- number of miles per year. So a car that is 5 years old would have about 75,000 miles to be considered --average.-- Anything significantly more, and a car is considered to be --high mileage.-- Anything significantly less, and it's a --low mileage-- car.Feb 5, 2018read more >>