What is good mileage for a 12 year old car?

Mileage Expectations for a 12-Year-Old Car

As a general rule of thumb, a 12-year-old car should have accumulated between 144,000 and 180,000 miles. This average is based on the assumption that the car has been driven an average of 12,000 miles per year.

However, it's important to note that there can be significant variations in mileage for cars of the same age. Factors that can affect mileage include:

• Maintenance history: A well-maintained car will typically have lower mileage than a car that has not been properly serviced.
• Driving habits: Cars driven in stop-and-go traffic will accumulate more miles than cars driven on highways.
• Type of vehicle: Different types of vehicles have different mileage expectations. For example, sports cars will typically have higher mileage than SUVs.

With these factors in mind, a car with only 85,000 miles at 12 years old is below the average mileage range. While this could be a good sign that the car has been well-maintained and driven conservatively, it's still important to have the car inspected by a mechanic to assess its overall condition.

Assessing a Used Car's Condition

When assessing a used car, mileage is just one of many factors to consider. Other important factors include:

• Overall appearance: Look for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
• Interior condition: Check for signs of stains, rips, or other damage.
• Mechanical inspection: Have the car inspected by a mechanic to assess its mechanical condition.
• Vehicle history report: Obtain a vehicle history report to learn about the car's past and any accidents or repairs it has been involved in.

By considering all of these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether or not a used car is a good value.