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Is it a smart idea to buy a vehicle with 200,000 miles?

I found a used vehicle in my area that’s being sold for dirt cheap, but I realized it’s probably because the mileage is pretty high. Do you think I should buy a car with 200,000 miles on it?

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Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Unfortunately, it’s typically not a smart idea to buy a vehicle with 200,000 miles on it—especially if you want a worthwhile investment.
Keep in mind: The average car only lasts 200,000 miles. Buying a car with this many miles on it carries the following risks:
That said, you may be fine buying a car with 200,000 miles on it if you just need a cheap vehicle to get you by while you
save up for a new car
Expert tip: Have a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to see if the used car is in good operating condition—despite its high mileage. Some of the most reliable makes and models have been known to last up to 300,000 miles if they’ve been properly maintained.
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