High Mileage Doesn’t Always Mean High Risk: What Really Matters in a Used Car

One of the most common concerns buyers have is: "Isn’t a high mileage car a bad idea?" But here's the truth – mileage isn’t everything.

At anycolourcar.com, we help you look beyond the numbers and focus on what really matters when buying a used car in Barnsley or anywhere in South Yorkshire.

🚗 What Is "High Mileage"?

In the UK, the average annual mileage is around 10,000–12,000 miles. So a car with:

• 60,000 miles after 5 years = average

• 100,000+ miles = considered high mileage

But a car with 100,000 motorway miles can be in far better shape than one with 40,000 harsh city miles.

🧠 Why Mileage Isn’t the Only Factor

✅ More Important Than Mileage:

• Service history (Was it looked after?)

• Type of miles driven (Motorway vs stop-start city)

• Number of previous owners

• Condition of interior and bodywork

• How it’s been maintained and driven

💡 Pros of Buying a High Mileage Car

• Lower purchase price

• Better value for money

• Many modern cars are built to last well beyond 150k miles

• Often motorway-driven = less wear on brakes, clutch, gearbox

🛠️ What to Watch Out For

Even well-kept high mileage cars may eventually need:

• Timing belt or chain replacement

• Suspension components

• Clutch or gearbox work

• EGR valve or turbo (on diesels)

Make sure these parts have been maintained or replaced when needed.

🔍 Questions to Ask the Seller

1. Is there a full service history?

2. Has the clutch or timing belt ever been replaced?

3. Are the tyres and brakes in good condition?

4. Is there a warranty or inspection report?

✅ How anycolourcar.com Adds Confidence

We don’t just go by mileage. We inspect:

• Full mechanical condition

• Past servicing and MOTs

• Ownership and use history

• Offer extended warranty options

You get full transparency, no guesswork.

📌 High Mileage Heroes

Some models are known to perform well beyond 100k miles:

• Toyota Avensis & Corolla

• Volvo V70 / XC60

• Honda Civic / Accord

• Skoda Octavia

• Ford Mondeo (diesel)

Final Thoughts

Don’t fear the big numbers – fear the unknown. A well-maintained high mileage car can be a smart, affordable choice for Barnsley drivers.

At anycolourcar.com, we make sure you’re buying a car that lasts.