If you’ve ever asked yourself, “At what mileage should I sell my car?”, you’re definitely not alone. It’s one of the most common questions car owners face when deciding to part ways with their vehicle. Sell too early, and you might lose value unnecessarily. Wait too long, and the price you get could plummet due to higher mileage and potential repair needs. Mileage is one of the biggest factors buyers and dealers consider, and understanding how it impacts value can help you make the best decision.
Best Mileage to Sell a Car
When people wonder about the best mileage to sell a car, they’re essentially asking at what point the balance tips between value and usability. Generally, the sweet spot lies before your vehicle hits the major service milestones, like 60,000 miles or 100,000 miles, because that’s when buyers start worrying about costly repairs. Cars with lower mileage often fetch higher prices simply because they’re seen as less risky. That said, the “right” mileage depends on the make, model, and maintenance history of your vehicle.
Why Mileage Matters in Car Sales
Buyer Perception
Mileage acts as a quick snapshot of how much a car has been used. A well-maintained car with higher mileage might still run great, but buyers often lean toward lower numbers as a safer bet.
Depreciation Curve
Most vehicles lose value quickly in the first few years, then level off before dropping steeply again after high-mileage thresholds. Timing your sale around these shifts can maximize your return.
Is 100,000 Miles Bad on a Car?
Many people ask, “Is 100 000 miles bad on a car?” The answer is: not necessarily. Modern vehicles are built to last longer, and with proper care, many easily exceed 150,000 miles. However, hitting that six-figure mark often signals to buyers that expensive maintenance could be on the horizon, things like timing belt replacements or transmission work. So while a 100,000-mile car isn’t automatically bad, it’s usually harder to sell at a strong price compared to one with 70,000–90,000 miles.
The Best Mileage to Trade in a Car
If you’re considering trading your car at a dealership, knowing the best mileage to trade in a car can save you from losing significant value. Dealerships typically give better offers on cars before they hit major maintenance intervals, often around 60,000–70,000 miles. At this point, the car still feels relatively “new” and has a strong resale market.
Best Mileage to Trade in Car vs. Private Sale
There’s a subtle difference between the best mileage to trade in car at a dealership and the best mileage to sell a car privately. Dealers value cars they can quickly resell, so they’ll pay more for lower mileage vehicles. Private buyers, however, might be willing to pay more for a higher mileage car that’s been well maintained, especially if it comes with a full service history. Deciding which route to take depends on your goals: speed and convenience (dealership) versus possibly higher earnings (private sale).
Other Factors Beyond Mileage
Age of the Car
A newer car with slightly higher mileage may still sell better than an older car with lower mileage. Buyers often balance age and mileage when evaluating a purchase.
Maintenance Records
A car with documented oil changes, repairs, and services will always attract more interest, regardless of mileage. Maintenance records reassure buyers that the car has been cared for properly.
Market Demand
Some models hold value better than others. For example, SUVs and trucks often sell well even with higher mileage, while smaller sedans may depreciate faster.
Best Time to Sell Car
Mileage isn’t the only factor, timing also matters. The best time to sell car can depend on market demand, seasonality, and even fuel prices. For instance, SUVs tend to sell better in the fall and winter, while convertibles fetch higher prices in spring and summer. Additionally, selling before major repair work is due can save you money and attract more buyers.
Car Trackers: Helping You Sell at the Right Mileage
At The Car Trackers, we know that timing and mileage are critical in car sales. That’s why our platform helps you evaluate your vehicle’s worth based on real-time market data, mileage, and condition. Whether you’re considering trading in at a dealership or selling privately, Car Trackers provides guidance and tools so you can sell at the right time for maximum value. We make the process transparent, simple, and stress-free, ensuring you don’t leave money on the table.
Conclusion
So, what’s the answer to “At what mileage should I sell my car?” The truth is, there’s no universal number. It depends on your car’s age, condition, and market demand. Still, most experts agree that selling before hitting major milestones, like 100,000 miles, can help you secure a better deal. Whether you’re trading in at 60,000 miles or preparing a private sale at 80,000, understanding how mileage impacts value is the key to making smart decisions. With the right knowledge, and platforms like Car Trackers, you can confidently choose the best mileage to sell your car and maximize your return.
