How many kilometres is too high for a used car?
If you’re buying a used car, mileage is probably an important factor in your decision, but how many kilometres is too many? We spoke to some of our dealers to find out for you.
1. How many kilometres is too high for a used car?
“I think there isn't such a thing as ‘too many miles’. I think the customer should look at the condition of the vehicle and how looked after it is as well as the type of car they're looking for. ” Edrich-John Pretorius, Dealer Principal from Cape Bakkie Centre in Cape Town.
2. Are some cars better to buy with high mileage?
“That depends on the manufacturer, if I buy a Range Rover Sport I don’t want one with more than 60-70,000km. But another person will buy a Golf with at least 100,00km on it, so it varies from one manufacturer to another.” Kobus Slabber, Dealer Principal from Jaguar Land Rover Constantiaberg.
3. What should my cut-off point be for kilometres on a used car?
“I personally don't buy cars that are over 200,000km, after this they start to get worn out and the cracks start to show.” Shaun Van Veijeren, Dealer Principal from Somerset Car Sales in Western Cape.
4. Should I buy a car with kilometres under the warranty limit?
“We normally like to keep them within the warranty which is 100,000-150,000km. For the first couple of months the customer owns the car, it's still under warranty, so if there are any problems within the first three or four to six months or within the factory warranty they're covered.” Stephan Kenny, Dealer Principal from Seamans Renault in George.
Our take?
The most important thing is checking if the car has been looked after and well maintained. Found a used car for sale you like? Ask the dealership for the full service history to see how well the car has been maintained.
