Is A Car With 100k Miles Bad | Car Geek (2023)

A car with 100,000 miles is not necessarily bad. Depending on the care the car has received, it can run just as well as a car with 50,000 miles.

However, a car with 100,000 miles on it has likely been driven more than a car with 50,000 miles, and it has had more time to wear down. The engine, brakes, and other components will have been used more, and may not last as long as they would in a car with fewer miles.

If you’re looking at a car with 100,000 miles on it, be sure to have it inspected by a mechanic to get a sense of how much longer it will last. Also, be prepared to pay more for repairs and maintenance, as these will likely be needed more often in a car with more miles.

Contents

  • 1 Do cars go bad after 100K miles?
  • 2 Is 100K a lot of miles on a car?
  • 3 How long will a 100 000 mile car last?
  • 4 What should I change after 100k miles?
  • 5 What should be done at 100 000 miles?
  • 6 How many miles is too high for a used car?
  • 7 At what mileage do cars start having problems?

Do cars go bad after 100K miles?

There’s a lot of debate on whether cars go bad after 100,000 miles or not. Some people say that a car’s performance will start to decline after hitting that mileage, while others believe that a car can run for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance. So, what’s the truth?

The answer to this question actually depends on a few factors. For example, the type of car and the driving habits of the person behind the wheel both play a role in how long a car lasts. That being said, there are some general things to keep in mind when it comes to a car’s longevity.

One of the main things that affects a car’s lifespan is how well it’s taken care of. If a car is regularly serviced and maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, it will likely last longer than one that’s not. Additionally, the way a car is driven can also have a big impact on how long it lasts. For example, if you’re a driver who likes to gun it and take corners at high speeds, that’s going to wear on the car a lot more than if you’re a more cautious driver.

Of course, another big factor is the age of the car. Generally speaking, older cars don’t last as long as newer ones. This is due, in part, to the fact that newer cars have better technology and engineering. Additionally, a car that’s been driven a lot will generally last less than one that’s been driven less.

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So, does a car go bad after 100,000 miles? It depends on a lot of factors, but in general, a car will last longer if it’s well taken care of and driven less.

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Is 100K a lot of miles on a car?

Is 100,000 miles a lot on a car?

That depends on the car. Some cars can last up to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, while others may only last 50,000 miles. It really depends on the make and model of the car.

If you’re asking if 100,000 miles is a lot on a used car, then the answer is yes. Most cars have a lifespan of around 100,000 miles, so once a car has been driven 100,000 miles, it’s considered used.

If you’re asking if 100,000 miles is a lot on a new car, then the answer is no. A new car can last for up to 300,000 miles.

So, is 100,000 miles a lot on a car? It depends on the car.

How long will a 100 000 mile car last?

A 100 000 mile car is a car that has been driven for 100 000 miles. How long will it last?

There is no definitive answer, as many factors will affect how long a car lasts. However, there are a few things that you can do to increase the longevity of your car.

1. Keep up with regular maintenance. This includes changing the oil and filter, checking the fluid levels, and rotating the tires.

2. Drive carefully. Avoid hard braking and accelerating, and try to keep a consistent speed.

3. Park in a shaded area. This will help to protect the car from the sun and keep the interior cool.

4. Use a car cover. This will protect the car from the elements and help to keep it clean.

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Ultimately, how long a car lasts depends on a variety of factors, including the make and model of the car, the way it is driven, and the conditions in which it is used. However, with proper care and maintenance, a 100 000 mile car can last for many years.

What should I change after 100k miles?

There are a few things you may want to change after reaching 100,000 miles on your vehicle. While some components may last well beyond 100,000 miles, others may start to wear down and need to be replaced. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

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Oil and oil filters: Oil and oil filters should be changed every 5,000 miles.

Tire tread: Tires should be inspected for adequate tread depth and replaced if needed. Most tires need to be replaced after around 60,000 miles.

Brake pads: Brake pads should be replaced every 50,000 miles.

Spark plugs: Spark plugs should be replaced every 30,000 miles.

Belts: Belts should be replaced every 60,000 miles.

If you’re unsure about what specific components need to be replaced on your vehicle after 100,000 miles, consult your owner’s manual or a reliable automotive technician.

What should be done at 100 000 miles?

A car’s 100,000-mile milestone is an important one, as it signals the vehicle is reaching the end of its usable life. Depending on the make and model of your car, there are a few things you should do at this point to ensure its longevity.

If you’re not sure what your car needs, have it inspected by a certified mechanic. They’ll be able to identify any worn-out parts or potential problems and recommend a plan of action.

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In general, some of the most important things to do at 100,000 miles include:

-Changing the oil and filter

-Checking the brakes and brake pads

-Inspecting the tires

-Replacing the air filter

-Flushing the radiator and cooling system

-Replacing the spark plugs

-Checking the drive belt

-Inspecting the suspension

-Lubricating the door hinges and other moving parts

These are just a few of the things you may need to do at this point; consult your car’s owner’s manual for a more comprehensive list.

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It’s also important to keep in mind that your car’s needs may vary depending on how it’s used. If you drive in a lot of stop-and-go traffic, for example, your brakes may need to be replaced more often than someone who mostly drives on the highway.

If you’re not comfortable performing some of the maintenance tasks yourself, don’t hesitate to take your car to a mechanic. By taking care of these things at 100,000 miles, you can help ensure that your car will run smoothly for many more miles to come.

How many miles is too high for a used car?

When you’re looking to buy a used car, there’s a lot to consider. One of the most important factors is how many miles the car has on it. Many people believe that there’s a certain point at which a car has too many miles and is no longer worth buying. But what is that magic number?

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There’s no definitive answer to this question since it depends on a variety of factors, such as the make and model of the car, its condition, and the asking price. However, a car with too many miles might not be worth the investment, especially if it’s an older model.

If you’re looking to buy a used car, it’s important to do your research and understand what to look for. Be sure to inspect the car closely and take it for a test drive. If you’re not sure whether a car has too many miles, it’s always best to ask the seller.

At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide what’s right for you. If you’re not comfortable with a car that has a lot of miles on it, then it’s probably best to move on and find something else.

At what mileage do cars start having problems?

Most drivers know that they need to take their car in for a tune-up or an oil change somewhere between 3,000 and 7,000 miles, but what happens after that? How much mileage can a car go before it starts having problems?

It really depends on the make and model of the car, as well as the type of problems it experiences. In some cases, a car may start having problems at 10,000 miles, while others may be able to go 150,000 miles or more without any issues.

One of the main things that affects a car’s mileage before problems start to occur is how well it was maintained by the previous owner. A car that has been well- taken care of may be able to go much further without any issues than one that was not.

There are a number of things that can cause problems with a car after a certain number of miles. These can include things like the engine wearing out, the transmission starting to slip, the brakes starting to wear down, and more.

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If you’re concerned about how many miles your car can go before it starts having problems, it’s best to talk to a mechanic. They can give you a better idea of what to expect from your specific vehicle.

FAQs

Is A Car With 100k Miles Bad | Car Geek? ›

Often, 100,000 miles is considered a cut-off point for used cars because older vehicles often start requiring more expensive and frequent maintenance when mileage exceeds 100,000.

Should I buy a car with 100 000 miles on it? ›

Often, 100,000 miles is considered a cut-off point for used cars because older vehicles often start requiring more expensive and frequent maintenance when mileage exceeds 100,000.

Is buying a used car with 100k miles bad? ›

It can be somewhat risky to buy a vehicle that has racked up more than 100,000 miles. Even if it's well-maintained and has about 100,000 miles left in it, such a car is already past its prime. Generally, vehicles are likely to start experiencing problems after the 100,000-mile mark.

What happens when a car hits 100 000 miles? ›

Higher mileage vehicles are likely to require extensive (and expensive) repairs when 'minor' issues go unchecked. Common problems that high-mileage cars face include transmission failure, oil leaks, timing belt failures, water pump leaks, and rust.

Is it a bad idea to buy a car with high mileage? ›

High Mileage Used Cars Can Be a Great Choice for Your Budget

If you're looking at used cars, know that cars with high mileage can still be dependable. A lot of times these cars are in great working condition from reliable manufacturers and may need a few parts replaced or scheduled maintenance.

How long will a car with 100K miles last? ›

A car with 100,000 miles is no longer the maximum life expectancy for a vehicle. If you keep up with routine maintenance, you could push your vehicle to well over 200,000 miles. Keep reading to find out how – and why – some drivers are keeping their cars on the road longer. We've been treating people right since 1925.

Is 150K miles too much for a car? ›

How many miles on a car is bad? As a general rule, most vehicles begin to seriously degrade at around 150,000 miles. It is considered rare, and therefore outstanding longevity, if a car reaches 200,000 miles on the road.

How many miles does a car last? ›

A conventional car can last for 200,000 miles. Some well-maintained car models will reach 300,000 or more miles total. The average passenger car age is currently around 12 years in the United States. Choosing a well-built make and model can help extend your car's longevity.

Is mileage more important than age? ›

While it's a good idea to consider the age of a vehicle and the number on its odometer, it's more important to look at how well the owner maintained the car. A 10-year-old car with 100,000 miles may have received more TLC than a five-year-old model with 50,000 miles.

How old of a car should I buy? ›

In retaining “like new” quality and inheriting a slower depreciation rate, the best used car age for buying is 2-3 years. In fact, Americans are saving up to $14,000 on a 3-year-old vehicle. For example, a car that may have cost you $30,000 when new would cost around $16,000 after just 3 years.

What should I check after I hit 100k miles? ›

Your vehicle's transmission fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant should be inspected during your 100,000-mile maintenance check to determine their condition and if they need to be topped off or changed.

Is it bad if a car has 300k miles? ›

collector car

Cars are built differently. Plenty of large vans and trucks will continue to run smoothly way past the 200,000-mile mark. Depending on the manufacturer, you can even get a long life out of a smaller vehicle. Surprisingly, most Miata's will continue to drive well (give or take a few repairs) past 300,000.

What fails on a high mileage engine? ›

Prevent Valve Leakage To Conserve Engine Oil

Cars with a lot of mileage are at a higher risk of leaks. As the engine ages and becomes worn, seals can easily leak. This can quickly lead to engine failure or cause parts and components to break or require repair.

Can a car last 500000 miles? ›

Depending on how well you treat your car, you could potentially reach over 500,000 miles. In fact, there's a driver whose car reached even more than that. Check out this short video to take a look!

What mileage is good for a used car? ›

Average car mileage per year

Experts agree that the common rule of thumb on mileage for a used vehicle is roughly 12,000 miles added each year of ownership. That means if you are looking at a 5-year-old vehicle, it should have about 60,000 miles on it.

What goes bad on high mileage cars? ›

However, the following issues are typically seen with higher mileage vehicles:
  • Transmission failure which can happen around 100,000 miles.
  • Needing a new battery.
  • New brake pads.
  • A new set of tires.
  • Fuel pump failure which can happen if you often drive on a low tank of gas.
Jun 24, 2020

At what mileage does a car lose the most value? ›

Zero to 30,000 Miles

New vehicles experience their biggest decline in value during their first year of ownership. Subsequently, they continue to depreciate sharply until their manufacturer's warranties expire, which is usually after three years or 36,000 miles.

Can my car last 200 000 miles? ›

In general, most modern cars can cross 200,000 miles without any major issues, provided the vehicle is being well-maintained. Considering that an average person drives 10,000-20,000 miles per year, this will account for roughly 15 years of service. Here are some factors to consider when assessing used car mileage.

What is the highest mileage on a car? ›

The highest mileage car on record is Irv Gordon's 1966 Volvo P1800S, with over 3 million miles.

How many miles can an engine last? ›

Average engine lifespan

For some time, the average lifespan of a car's engine was eight years, or 150,000 miles. New designs, better technology and improved service standards in recent years have increased this average life expectancy to about 200,000 miles, or about 10 years.

Is 120 000 miles on a car too much? ›

A wary buyer should use as a general rule of thumb that most cars are driven 12,000-15,000 miles per year. If a vehicle is 10 years of age, it should have between 120,000 miles and 150,000 miles on the odometer.

How many miles should a 9 year old car have? ›

Used Car Mileage Chart Example
YearsAverage MileageDepreciation Percentage
784,00042%
896,00048%
9108,00054%
10120,00060%
11 more rows
Dec 12, 2022

Which brand of cars last the longest? ›

Toyota was one of the longest-lasting car brands
RankModelCars Over 200k Miles
1Toyota2.3%
2Honda1.9%
3GMC1.8%
4Chevrolet1.6%
2 more rows
Apr 18, 2023

How many miles should a 17 year old car have? ›

A used 2016 car should have around 72,000 miles. How many miles should a 2017 car have in 2022? A used 2017 car should have around 60,000 miles.

Should I buy a car now or wait until 2023? ›

Americans planning to shop for a new car in 2023 might find slightly better prices than during the past two years, though auto industry analysts say it is likely better to wait until the fall. Since mid-2021, car buyers have been frustrated by rising prices, skimpy selection and long waits for deliveries.

Why is high mileage a problem? ›

Theoretically, a vehicle that has covered more miles has more wear and tear, but a car with 60,000 miles on the odometer can easily be in worse shape than one with 120,000 miles. Cars and trucks like to be driven. Parts that don't get regular use can become brittle and break more easily.

At what age do cars lose value? ›

Cars lose the most value in the first year, and depreciation continues for about five years. A car can lose up to 20% of its value in the first year, and over the first five years fall to around 40% from the original price. That means it loses about 15% of the value each year after the first year.

What's the best month to buy a car? ›

In terms of the best time of the year, October, November and December are safe bets. Car dealerships have sales quotas, which typically break down into yearly, quarterly and monthly sales goals. All three goals begin to come together late in the year.

What is the sweet spot for buying a used car? ›

What Is the Used-Car Sweet Spot? It's the period after the vehicle's first — and most significant — depreciation and the second steep depreciation, which comes around the fourth year. This pattern is fairly consistent across all vehicles.

How much is Honda 100 000 mile service? ›

Car Talk estimated the 100,000-mile maintenance cost for a Honda CR-V, including one tire replacement and one set of brakes front and rear. Our rough estimate of the cost to maintain a Honda CR-V for 100K miles is $6,930.

What is a tune up on a car? ›

A vehicle tuneup involves replacing an internal combustion engine's old or worn-out components with new ones to improve its performance and efficiency. Per the manufacturer's recommendations, your vehicle needs regular tuneups to run smoothly.

Is 200 000 miles on a Toyota bad? ›

Although it may have been well maintained, the purchase of a vehicle with over 200,000 miles on the odometer might lead to significant maintenance costs. At this point, the car is likely nearing the end of its useful life, and you may soon need to either invest a significant sum in repairs or replace it entirely.

How many miles is too many for a new car? ›

The general rule, though, is that anything under 200 miles is acceptable for a new car. That allows enough capacity for transport from the shipping port or between dealerships if the car is sent to a new showroom. It's also unlikely that the car would suffer any technical issues with fewer than 200 miles.

Can you reset miles on a car? ›

While resetting or tampering with an odometer is illegal, it certainly won't stop people from doing odometer rollbacks. With the right tools and know-how, the odometer can be rolled back to take hundreds to thousands of miles off the displayed number. Even digital odometers can be altered using special tools.

At what age do cars start having problems? ›

Even when mileage is low, the older a car gets, the less reliable it becomes. Modern cars are much more reliable, even as they age. Five-year-old cars record what is considered a major problem every three years, while 10-year-old cars are more likely to face a problem every 18 to 20 months.

How many miles before engine rebuild? ›

Remember how the starting, stopping, and idling, with the idling add up with the engine mileage. With those factors considered, an engine overhaul may be needed at around 750,000 miles.

Will getting a new engine help with high mileage? ›

No, replacing your car's engine won't reset its mileage. The odometer is connected to the front wheel hub rather than the engine, and any changes made to the engine, even as far as replacing it - won't affect the odometer.

At what mileage should a car be replaced? ›

A conventional car can last for 200,000 miles. Some well-maintained car models will reach 300,000 or more miles total. The average passenger car age is currently around 12 years in the United States.

Is it a good idea to buy a car with over 200k miles? ›

In general, most modern cars can cross 200,000 miles without any major issues, provided the vehicle is being well-maintained. Considering that an average person drives 10,000-20,000 miles per year, this will account for roughly 15 years of service. Here are some factors to consider when assessing used car mileage.

Is 100k miles too much for a used truck? ›

For used trucks with gas engines, try to keep the mileage under 100,000 miles. Used trucks with a diesel engine can go a good deal further since diesel engines are easier to maintain than gasoline. 200,000 miles in a diesel engine is about the same wear and tear as 100,000 is for gas.

What is the best mileage to sell a car? ›

30,000 to 60,000 Miles

It's a good idea to sell your car before it hits 60,000 miles if you don't want to spend a lot of money on repairs and replacement parts. During this mileage bracket, your car should be about five years old, meaning it'll still command a substantial amount.

At what mileage is a car not worth fixing? ›

Depending on the car's value, repairing it might be worth the money to keep it going for a few more years. However, most modern gasoline-powered vehicles will start to struggle after the 200,000-mile mark. Electric cars can usually make it up to 300,000 miles before they're considered well used.

What is the average life of a car? ›

What's the Average Life of a Car? In the past, the average lifespan of a car was significantly lower than it is today. Now, you can expect a standard car to last around 12 years or about 200,000 miles. More advanced vehicles like electric cars can go even longer, up to 300,000 miles.

What mileage is too high for a new car? ›

The general rule, though, is that anything under 200 miles is acceptable for a new car. That allows enough capacity for transport from the shipping port or between dealerships if the car is sent to a new showroom. It's also unlikely that the car would suffer any technical issues with fewer than 200 miles.

Is it dumb to buy a car with 200k miles? ›

Although it may have been well maintained, the purchase of a vehicle with over 200,000 miles on the odometer might lead to significant maintenance costs. At this point, the car is likely nearing the end of its useful life, and you may soon need to either invest a significant sum in repairs or replace it entirely.

Is 175000 miles a lot on a car? ›

A wary buyer should use as a general rule of thumb that most cars are driven 12,000-15,000 miles per year. If a vehicle is 10 years of age, it should have between 120,000 miles and 150,000 miles on the odometer.

Is a 10 year old car too old? ›

When buying a used car that's 10-years-old or older, your primary concerns are purchase price and reliability. Don't pay more than that 10-year-old car is worth. And, pick a car with a solid reputation for dependability. No car is really too old if you follow those rules.

What is a good mileage for a used car? ›

Average car mileage per year

Experts agree that the common rule of thumb on mileage for a used vehicle is roughly 12,000 miles added each year of ownership. That means if you are looking at a 5-year-old vehicle, it should have about 60,000 miles on it.

Can a truck last 500k miles? ›

Depending on how well you treat your car, you could potentially reach over 500,000 miles. In fact, there's a driver whose car reached even more than that. Check out this short video to take a look!

Can a truck last 400k miles? ›

Diesel trucks can last well over 400,000 miles. But it takes a lot of maintenance and care to get there.

Can you trade in a car with 100k miles? ›

100k Miles Or More

Vehicles within this milestone could still have a positive trade-in value even though they aren't in perfect condition. The condition of your car is looked at more closely as the miles grow on that odometer.

Should I sell my car before it gets to 100000 miles? ›

If you think you might want to trade it in again, choose an optimal time. That way, you increase your potential trade-in value. There is no exact mileage number that will make or break your vehicle's trade-in value — but if it's possible, you should trade your vehicle in before it reaches 100,000 miles.

Does age or mileage matter more? ›

While it's a good idea to consider the age of a vehicle and the number on its odometer, it's more important to look at how well the owner maintained the car. A 10-year-old car with 100,000 miles may have received more TLC than a five-year-old model with 50,000 miles.

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