Insider Tips for Buying Used Cars at Corwin Ford Tri-Cities

Find out when a car is too old to buy and what is good mileage for a used car. 

At Corwin Ford Tri-Cities, we totally get your search for the ideal ride. We handpick the cars in our used inventory so whether you’re into those sleek sedans or solid trucks, there’s always match for you. If you’re in the market for a pre-owned vehicle, two things that buyers don’t give enough thought to are when a car is too old to buy and what is good mileage for a used car. 

What to Do When Buying a Used Car

When choosing a used car, think about how old it is. Your personal preferences, how you plan to use the car, and your budget are important. Corwin Ford Tri-Cities helps you find the right balance in a used car’s age to make a smart choice.

Older cars might be cheaper at first, but they can cost more in repairs. Think about your daily travel needs and if an older, high-mileage car suits you. Ask for records of past repairs and maintenance to understand how well the car was looked after. These details help you know the car’s real condition. It’s also a good idea to get the car professionally checked. Corwin Ford Tri-Cities makes sure all used cars are properly inspected, so you can trust their condition and reliability.

To choose the best age for a used car, consider your budget, how the car fits your lifestyle, its maintenance history, and technology features, and get it professionally inspected. Corwin Ford Tri-Cities supports a personalized approach, knowing that what’s “too old” varies for each person.

So, How Old is Too Old for a Used Car? 

The age that makes a used car “too old” depends on its make, model, mileage, and maintenance history, not a single universal number. Here’s what you can expect at each stage: 

0-3 years: You’re basically buying a used new car. Depreciation hasn’t hit it hard yet, but you also pay a premium. Reliability is typically excellent, and warranties might still be in effect.

4-7 years: Depreciation kicks in, making this a financially sweet spot. Reliability often remains high, and parts are readily available. Look for well-maintained cars with decent mileage.

8-12 years: Entering the “iffy” zone. Reliability can vary greatly depending on make, model, and maintenance. Lower mileage vehicles are preferable, and thorough inspections are crucial.

13-15 years: Approaching the twilight years. Parts availability might decrease, and repairs could become more frequent and expensive. Consider only if price is the absolute priority and you’re handy with a wrench.

16+ years: Entering vintage territory. More of a collector’s item or project car than a daily driver. Be prepared for significant maintenance needs and potential parts scarcity.

What’s Good Mileage for a Used Car?

There’s no simple answer to what counts as “good mileage” for a used car. It depends on the car’s age, brand, model, how it’s been used, and how well it’s been maintained. But here are some basic tips:

Low Mileage (under 50,000 miles): Great for most people. It usually means less wear and tear and can mean the car will last longer.

Average Mileage (50,000-100,000 miles): Still good, especially if the car is known for being reliable and has been well looked after. Do some research on any common problems for that particular car.

High Mileage (100,000+ miles): Be careful. Make sure to get a detailed inspection and be ready to deal with repairs. High-mileage cars might be okay if they’re really cheap and you’re okay with fixing them up as needed.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if a car’s mileage is “good” is to:

Research the car: Look for online resources that provide reliability ratings and common problems for the specific make and model.

Get a pre-purchase inspection: This will give you a professional assessment of the car’s condition and any potential issues.

Factor in your budget: Higher mileage cars might be cheaper upfront, but consider the potential cost of repairs down the line.

What to Do After Buying a Used Car

Owning a car is more than just buying it; it’s about enjoying it for a long time. Corwin Ford Tri-Cities helps make owning a used car easy and fun.

Make sure to finish all the paperwork, like transferring the title and registering the car. Keep important documents like the sale bill and warranties in order. Get a full check-up from a trusted mechanic to spot any issues you might have missed when buying. Learn about your car’s features and check the manual for upkeep tips and important info.

Follow the maker’s advice for regular car care. Corwin Ford Tri-Cities offers service plans for taking care of your car. Keep an eye out for any recalls or safety news about your car. Corwin Ford Tri-Cities can also keep you up-to-date on these updates.

With Corwin Ford Tri-Cities’ help, managing your car after you buy it is smooth and satisfying. Doing the right paperwork, getting inspections, knowing your car, considering extra services, keeping up with maintenance, and staying informed about recalls all add up to a great car-owning experience.

Used Cars for Sale Tri-Cities, Washington

Buying and owning a used car in Tri-Cities, WA can be a great experience, especially with help from the experts at Corwin Ford Tri-Cities. They can answer your questions about how old a used car should be or what to do after you buy one. This detailed guide is like a map to help you succeed.

Check out the wide range of used cars at Corwin Ford Tri-Cities in Tri-Cities, WA, and start a journey where happiness is not just the goal, but part of the whole process. Call or visit us to find great deals on our new and used vehicles. We serve customers in Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, Walla Walla, Hermiston, Umatilla, Yakima, Spokane, Sunnyside, Grandview, Dayton, Prescott, Benton County, Franklin County, Yakima County, Spokane County, Adams County, Grant County, and the Greater Columbia Basin. 

Browse Our Used Car Inventory.