What are the hazards and benefits of purchasing a car with 30,000 miles on it?
The automotive industry is very sensitive about the issue of odometer reading and mileage.
For most cars, it’s best to keep the odometer reading under 25,000 miles or so.
Anything above that could make you look like a car that was driven for a long time when in reality the car might just have been driven to a service station along its last leg.
Beyond that number, reputable auto dealers won’t be willing to sell you their car anymore.
They want their car back from you within a certain period – preferably before they go on vacation but also well before they take another one.
If you’re thinking of buying a pre-owned car with low miles, here are some things to keep in mind:
What to look for in a low-miles used car
– Ask the dealer if the car has been in an accident
– Ask the dealer if there is an extended warranty offered with the car
– If you buy a used car, make sure to take it to a mechanic and get it inspected before driving it off the lot
– Make sure that there are no signs of previous mechanical problems with the car
Check the Car History Report Before you Buy
Before you buy a car, it’s important to check the car history report.
You can do this by going to Carfax.
com or the National Auto Dealers Association website and check out the car’s past owners.
The auto history report will tell you whether or not the person who owned the car before is reliable if other incidents have been reported with that person, and what sort of maintenance has been done on that car.
It would be a good idea to ask for a copy of the report and then go through it yourself before you make a purchase decision.
Ask To See The Maintenance Records
Ask to see the maintenance records from the past 3-6 years.
If you see that the car has been serviced properly and the odometer reading is under 25,000 miles, this may be a good deal for you.
Always Inspect the Braking System, Tires and Suspension
The braking system, tires, and suspension of your car should be inspected before you buy it.
The braking system is especially important because the brakes are a major part of your safety.
They should be checked for wear and tear, leaks, and any unusual noise.
This can also help you determine if the brakes need to be replaced.
Don’t Be Afraid to Walk Away If You Find Anything Questioning
If you find out that the car has more miles than advertised, don’t be afraid to walk away.
Buying a car is a leap of faith, and it should be one you can trust.
If the car doesn’t have enough miles to make it worth your while, don’t buy it – no matter how much someone might offer you for your trade-in.
But if the miles seem just fine and you like the car, go ahead and buy it!
Just make sure you document where you got your information from – whether that means taking pictures of your odometer or getting a written statement from the seller.
Conclusion
Buying a low-mileage used car can be a smart choice if you’re in the market for a reliable, low-cost option with good fuel efficiency.
But before you even consider buying one, it’s important to do your due diligence and check the Car History Report before you buy.
Before you purchase a car, make sure you ask to see the vehicle’s maintenance records.
Inspecting the braking system, tires and suspension are also vital.
And don’t be afraid to walk away from any car that makes you uncomfortable.
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We have a team of expert automotive journalists who are passionate about their cars and knowledgeable about the industry.
They’re always on hand to provide helpful advice and share their vast experience with our readers.
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Protect My Car is a vehicle service contract provider, also referred to as extended car warranty provider, with multiple coverage plans for new and used vehicles with low to higher mileage to help meet your needs and budget. Protect My Car customers work directly with the company for customer service, claims administration and contract financing. No middleman or the need for third-party approval. All Protect My Car Plans include best-in-class claims and customer support, 24/7 roadside assistance, free oil changes and tire rotations and the exclusive PMC Rewards Plan, providing daily deals, giveaways, coupons, and thousands of ways to save money every day. Protect My Car has a 30-day money-back guarantee.