What age car should I buy?

I am really not used to buying cars so I am wondering on a basic level is it better higher mileage younger car or older car but lower mileage? I am looking for something the size of Kia Rio or Honda jazz. I probably won't do any more than 10,000 miles a year.

Asked on 22 December 2021 by helen Dodd

Answered by Dan Powell

I would always recommend buying the newest car you can afford.

I wouldn't be too concerned about higher mileages, as long as the car has a full history that shows it has been serviced and meticulously cared for. Obviously, higher mileages mean more wear and tear, so don't be surprised if a car with 100,000+ miles will present more maintenance bills.

Older cars with low mileages are usually best avoided, in my opinion. These tend to be left standing outside in the elements for long periods and this presents a range of age-related issues that are usually related to corrosion. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, with some people taking very good care of their vehicles and covering limited mileages. But these care are few and far between in my experience.

Regards,

Dan

Tags: buying a used car buying a new car

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