Mileage – What is the maximum number of km a used car should have?

The used car mileage is one of the most decisive factors when buying a car. But what is the maximum number of kilometres a used car should have? And what should you pay attention to when choosing in order to make the right decision? We answer these questions in detail and provide an initial orientation.

How important is the mileage for used cars?

The mileage of a vehicle indicates how intensively it has already been used. But the importance of mileage depends on several factors:

• Care and maintenance: A used car with high mileage can be in good condition despite many kilometers if it has been serviced regularly. Be sure to check the checkbook and pay attention to inspections, such as changing the oil or replacing the timing belt.
• Application: Cars that were mainly driven on the motorway wear out less than vehicles in city traffic on short distances. Long-haul routes are less of a burden Brakes, clutch and transmission. Exceptions are long-term speeders, as they often overuse their engine.
• Model and engine: Some cars and engines are known for their high mileage. A diesel car often manages 300,000 km or more without any problems, while a 3-cylinder gasoline engine with a small displacement may reach its limits sooner.
• Age: A low mileage on a very old car (e.g. 10 years old and under 50,000 km) can indicate that it has been standing for a long time. Long periods of standing still also damage the car, especially if it was not in a garage.

The mileage is therefore important, but not the only criterion. The overall condition of the car is decisive.

How many km should a used car have?

There is actually no general answer to the question "What is the maximum number of km a used car should have?" The ideal mileage depends on the type of vehicle, the planned use and your own budget. The time when you buy a used car can also make a difference in terms of price.

As a rough guideline, the following applies:

• Up to 100,000 km: For most buyers, this is certainly the ideal value. Vehicles in this area often have an even longer lifespan, especially if they have been well maintained.
• 100,000 to 150,000 km: Can be a good choice if you opt for a robust model. As always when buying a used car, maintenance certificates and repair invoices are important.
• Over 200,000 km: For bargain hunters or vehicles with a long shelf life, e.g. diesel models or premium brands such as Mercedes or Volvo.

There is no fixed "kilometre cut", but you should always make sure that the mileage matches your own usage needs. A used car check at the TÜV can also make sense.

Is age or mileage more important in a used car?

The question of whether age or mileage is more important is on the minds of many used car buyers. Both factors are important factors, but it depends very much on the individual area of use and the condition of the vehicle:

• Age: A younger vehicle with higher mileage can often be a better choice than an old vehicle with few miles. For example, a five-year-old car with 120,000 km of long-distance driving is often in better condition than a 15-year-old vehicle with 50,000 km that has only been driven in the city.
• Mileage: If you are looking for a car that will last for many years to come, the mileage is crucial. Vehicles with fewer kilometers usually have a longer remaining service life.

Overall, care is more important than age or mileage. So always ask for the inspection certificates and carefully check the condition of the body and the wearing parts such as tires, brakes and exhaust.

How to find used cars with few kilometers

A used car with few kilometers is particularly popular with prospective buyers. These tips will help you find such a car:

• Use search filters: On used car portals, you can set the mileage as a criterion, such as vehicles up to 80,000 km mileage.
• Search for first ownership: Vehicles with only one previous ownership often have fewer kilometers than commuter vehicles with several owners.
• Check small vehicle classes: Compact cars or small cars are often used less, especially if they serve as a second car.
• Pay attention to older drivers: Cars from older previous owners are often little driven and very well maintained.
• Avoid premium brands: Models from BMW, Mercedes or Audi are often used as long-distance vehicles and therefore have higher mileage. Brands such as Toyota or Opel are often driven less.

We also have other tips for buying a used car that could be interesting.

What is a good mileage for used cars?

A "good mileage" depends heavily on the type of vehicle and your intended use. For most buyers, a vehicle with less than 100,000 km is ideal. However, used cars with high mileage can also be a good choice if they are robustly built and well maintained.

Is 200,000 km a lot for a used car?

200,000 km is considered a lot, but not automatically an exclusion criterion. Long-distance vehicles with powerful diesel engines can still be reliable beyond this limit. Check carefully whether wearing parts such as the clutch or chassis have been replaced.

Is 100,000 km a lot for a used car?

Nein, 100.000 km sind für viele Fahrzeuge, insbesondere Modelle von Herstellern wie VW, Toyota oder BMW, eher durchschnittlich. Mit guter Pflege kann ein Auto mit diesem Kilometerstand oft weitere 100.000 km problemlos fahren.

Für wen eignen sich Gebrauchtwagen mit hoher Laufleistung?

Ein Gebrauchtwagen mit hoher Laufleistung kann eine gute Wahl sein, wenn:

• The budget is limited: Vehicles with high mileage are cheaper to buy.
• If you are looking for a second car: They are often sufficient for short journeys or as a transitional vehicle.
• It is a robust long-distance car: Premium models such as the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series or Volvo V70 often last a long time.