Buying Old Cars With Almost No Miles: Yes or No?

When buying a used vehicle, most people believe it’s always best to go for cars with low mileage. Most car dealerships will entice customers by emphasizing a vehicle’s low mileage. However, low mileage doesn’t always guarantee that the vehicle is worth your money.

Risks of Buying an Old Car With Low Mileage

Low-mileage cars are typically marketed as having less wear and tear, and while this can be true in some cases, it can also be quite misleading. Old cars with almost no miles can have multiple problems, especially if they aren’t stored properly. Here are the risks to consider when buying a low-mileage car:

Odometer Adjustments

You’ll have to keep an eye out for possible odometer adjustments. Odometers can be reset, which means you might end up buying a car with more mileage than the seller claims. To avoid scams, ask for a vehicle history report and maintenance record, which should match the odometer.

Dry Rot

Used cars with low miles might suffer from dry-rotted tires. Tire dry rot typically occurs from lack of use, improper maintenance, or exposure to extreme weather conditions. Unless the vehicle’s tires are well-maintained, then there’s a big chance that the tires are already cracking.

Dried Rubber Seals

Without regular use and proper maintenance, rubber seals and gaskets tend to dry out and crack. Damaged seals can lead to several issues, such as oil leaks.

Fluid Issues

Engine oil, gasoline, and other car fluids aren’t meant to sit unused for a long time. They’ll eventually degrade and, in some cases, leak from their reservoirs. For example, engine oil can oxidize and thicken, losing its ability to flow through the engine. It can also turn into sludge, which can clog and damage the engine.

Expensive Warranty

Some dealerships offer warranties for used cars, but you can expect to spend more for these types of vehicles. In some cases, these warranties won’t cover much, which can put you at a disadvantage if any issues arise right after purchase.

Advantages of Buying a Used Car With Low Mileage

While buying an old car with low miles can be risky, it can also be a great alternative to buying a brand-new vehicle:

Cheaper Than a New Car

If you’re on a budget, buying a used car with low mileage instead of a brand-new vehicle can save you a lot of money. Used cars depreciate over time, making them much cheaper than their initial retail price.

Less Wear

Cars with low miles tend to have less wear, which means you won’t have to spend a lot of money replacing worn-out parts.

Higher Resale Value

Low-mileage cars typically have more life left in them than vehicles with high mileage. Because of this, they have a higher resale value and attract more buyers.

Reduced Insurance Costs

Most insurance companies offer lower rates for low-mileage vehicles, which they view as lower risk than cars with more miles. This is because used cars with low mileage are usually in better condition than high-mileage vehicles.

What To Do After Buying Old Cars

After buying an old car, it’s best to bring it to an auto shop, where a mechanic can perform the following maintenance tasks:

Coolant and Oil Change

Fluids such as coolant and oil will need changing. Most mechanics will also check for any leaks.

Check and Replace the Battery

Car batteries typically last three to five years. Older batteries are more susceptible to corrosion, so you’ll have to replace the battery if it’s too old.

Replace the Air Filters

If necessary, your mechanic will also replace the air filters in your engine and air conditioner (A/C). Most engine air filters need to be replaced every 30,000 to 45,000 miles, while cabin air filters need to be changed every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.

Inspect the Brake System

Old cars will typically need new brake discs, pads, and fluid, so an inspection of the entire brake system is always necessary when buying a secondhand vehicle.

Check the Tire and Wheel Alignment

Don’t forget to ask the mechanic to rotate, balance, and align your tires. This is to ensure that your tires last longer and wear evenly.

Should You Avoid Buying a Used Car With Low Miles?

Low mileage on a vehicle isn’t necessarily a red flag, but it’s a sign that you should do your research before making a deal. Go over maintenance and repair records to check if it’s been well-maintained. If you can, ask a mechanic to inspect the vehicle for you. A professional can help you decide whether or not the low-mileage car you’re eyeing is worth your money.