Is it worth buying a car with more than 200,000 or even 300,000 kilometers? Is high mileage really that significant?
Whether it’s a Japanese, German, or American car doesn’t make much difference. Almost all vehicles meeting Euro 4, Euro 5, and Euro 6 standards can run far beyond what you might expect.
For instance, most commercial taxis typically use Italian, French, or occasionally Japanese and Korean vehicles. Taxi drivers often run their cars up to 500,000–700,000 kilometers before selling them, mainly because they are required to replace their vehicles every five years. On average, taxis cover about 100,000–140,000 kilometers annually.
According to the European Vehicle Commission, even a brand like Dacia, which some might look down on, can achieve half a million kilometers—provided regular maintenance is performed.
So yes, a car with 100,000, 200,000, or even 300,000 kilometers can still be worth buying, as long as it is in good condition, aligns with your budget, and meets your needs.
German vs. Japanese vs. Local Brands
Some people say, “If it’s not German or Japanese, don’t buy it.” However, this is entirely budget-dependent. If your budget only allows for a high-mileage car, it’s best not to opt for German or Japanese vehicles. The reason? They may develop small, recurring mechanical issues, and the repair costs can quickly add up—sometimes as much as you paid for the car itself.
Instead, vehicles manufactured locally or regionally, like Italian, French, and Korean cars, are more cost-effective because their parts are far cheaper and more accessible compared to German or Japanese brands.
Fear of Engine Failures is Overrated
There’s a misconception about engines being a costly problem. In reality, an engine is not as expensive to repair as people think. For example, engines can often be rebuilt through a process called “rectification.”
The real concerns are:
- Transmission (gearbox): Often requires replacement or an expensive alternative.
- Suspension and Steering Components: These issues are trickier and costlier to repair than engine problems.
Vehicle Condition Matters More Than Mileage
After a proper inspection (expert evaluation), you can confidently buy a car with 500,000 kilometers on the odometer. What truly matters is how well the vehicle has been maintained.
For instance:
- A 2010 model car with 200,000 kilometers could be in much better condition than a 2007 model car with only 90,000 kilometers.
- Why? Regular maintenance ensures the vehicle stays healthy, regardless of mileage.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
For a car to remain roadworthy, its maintenance must be performed regularly—usually annually or every X kilometers. If a car has done 200,000 kilometers over 10 years, it has likely been serviced at least once per year. Neglecting critical maintenance can lead to severe and costly repairs down the line.
Final Thoughts
Many commercial vehicles and cars used for business purposes can easily run up to 600,000 kilometers without major issues—provided maintenance has been consistent.
Also, owning a car and driving it less than 10,000 kilometers annually isn’t economical. Cars are built to be driven, and keeping them idle is often a poor financial investment.
In summary:
- Don’t fear high-mileage cars.
- Prioritize maintenance history over mileage.
- Understand the repair costs associated with different brands before purchasing.
With proper care, even a high-mileage car can serve you reliably for years to come.
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