Mechanic gives surprising advice on whether you should buy a car with 100,000 miles on the clock

Buying used high-mileage cars is not a risky move if car maintenance has been done properly, and mechanic advice from experienced technicians proves it.

People often walk away from vehicles with 100K miles or more on the clock, assuming they’re worn out. But that mindset is outdated.

Advances in automotive design and engineering have shifted the focus from mileage numbers to maintenance records.

The key to making a smart purchase is knowing how to assess a car’s history, not just its odometer reading.

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Mechanic advice says mileage myths are outdated

A mechanic with years in the trade recently explained why high-mileage cars are not the problem many believe them to be.

According to his mechanic advice, the odometer figure is far less important than how well a car has been looked after.

A vehicle that has received regular car maintenance is likely to be more reliable than one that has been neglected, regardless of mileage.

Routine services like oil changes, fluid flushes, and suspension upkeep are what keep high-mileage cars running properly.

The mechanic pointed out that components such as shocks and struts often need attention around the 100K mark. But these are predictable wear items.

Addressing them on schedule prevents larger, more expensive failures down the line.

His message is simple: cars do not break down because of mileage, they break down due to poor maintenance.

For buyers interested in used cars, service records are essential.

A vehicle with 100K miles that shows a consistent maintenance history is often a safer bet than a low-mileage car with gaps in its service log.

Mechanic advice consistently emphasizes that proactive car maintenance costs far less than reactive repairs after parts fail.

Ignoring this principle is where most buyers go wrong.

Why location matters when buying used cars

Mechanic advice also highlights that where a car has been driven is just as important as how it has been maintained.

High-mileage cars from northern states face constant exposure to road salt, which accelerates rust and corrosion.

Even if the mechanical systems are sound, structural rust can turn a good car into an expensive project.

This is why buying used cars from regions like California or Arizona is often a safer choice.

These areas rarely use road salt, and vehicles from dry climates typically suffer less from corrosion.

However, coastal regions can still pose risks, as salt in the air can slowly damage exposed metal over time.

A thorough inspection is always recommended, regardless of location.

For those looking at high-mileage cars, the combination of a solid maintenance history and a rust-free environment offers the best chance of getting a reliable vehicle.

Mileage should not be the deciding factor when buying used cars.

The condition of the vehicle, backed by detailed service records and minimal environmental wear, is far more important.

High-mileage cars that have been cared for can continue to perform reliably and offer excellent value for money, as long as buyers know where to look and what to avoid.

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