Mileage is one of the biggest factors in determining your car's resale value. But how much does it really matter? Let's break down the numbers.
The Average Mileage Standard
The industry standard is approximately 12,000-15,000 miles per year. Cars below this average are considered "low mileage" and command a premium.
Mileage Milestones That Matter
- Under 30,000: Minimal depreciation from mileage
- 30,000-60,000: Sweet spot for resale value
- 60,000-100,000: Moderate impact on value
- Over 100,000: Significant depreciation, but still sellable
- Over 200,000: Value drops substantially, but we still buy!
Other Factors Matter Too
While mileage matters, it's not everything. A well-maintained car with 100,000 highway miles can be worth more than a neglected car with 50,000 city miles.