If you’re shopping for a used car in the Los Angeles area, you’ve probably wondered:
“How many miles is too many for a used car?”
It’s a smart question — especially in a city where daily driving, freeway commutes, and stop-and-go traffic can quickly add wear to a vehicle. The answer depends on the car’s brand, maintenance history, and how those miles were driven.
Let’s break it down for LA drivers so you can confidently shop for your next pre-owned vehicle at Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.
What’s Considered “High Mileage” in California?
Traditionally, 100,000 miles used to mark the end of a car’s reliable life.
But today’s vehicles — especially newer models from brands like Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram — are built to last well past 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
In Los Angeles, the average driver logs about 12,000–15,000 miles per year.
That means:
| Vehicle Age | Typical “Normal” Mileage |
|---|---|
| 3 years old | 36,000–45,000 miles |
| 5 years old | 60,000–75,000 miles |
| 8 years old | 96,000–120,000 miles |
| 10 years old | 120,000–150,000 miles |
Anything above these numbers might be considered high mileage, but it doesn’t automatically mean the car is unreliable — especially if it has complete service records and passes inspection.
Why Mileage Matters More in LA Than in Other Cities
Los Angeles driving conditions are unique:
- Stop-and-go traffic on the 405, 101, and I-10 increases engine wear even with fewer miles.
- High temperatures can affect fluids and seals over time.
- Urban driving puts stress on brakes, transmissions, and cooling systems.
- Frequent short trips don’t allow full engine warm-up, which can lead to carbon buildup.
So, when evaluating used cars in LA, how those miles were accumulated often matters more than the number itself.
City Miles vs. Highway Miles
Not all miles are created equal:
| Type of Driving | Impact on Vehicle | What It Means for You |
|---|---|---|
| City Miles | More idling, stop-and-go, brake wear | Common in Los Angeles; check for transmission and brake health |
| Highway Miles | Steady speeds, less wear | Preferable if the car was used for commuting between cities |
| Mixed Miles | Combination of both | Typical for suburban drivers in Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, or Burbank |
When possible, ask the seller or dealership about the vehicle’s driving history — highway-driven cars often show less wear despite higher odometer readings.
When High Mileage Isn’t a Dealbreaker
A vehicle with 120,000 miles might still be a great buy if:
- It has detailed service records
- Maintenance was done on time (oil, transmission, coolant, brakes)
- It has had one or two previous owners
- It’s from a reliable brand (Jeep, Toyota, Honda, etc.)
- It was driven mostly on the highway
Many modern engines can reach 250,000+ miles with proper care. The key is the condition, not just the number.
When to Be Cautious
You might want to reconsider if the used vehicle shows:
- Gaps in maintenance history
- Oil leaks or engine noise
- Burning smell or rough idle
- Transmission slipping
- Rust, frame damage, or accidents
Even a low-mileage car can be risky if it wasn’t cared for properly.
Mileage by Vehicle Type (Los Angeles Context)
| Vehicle Type | Typical Reliable Range | LA Market Reality |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan / Compact Car | 150,000–200,000 miles | Ideal for LA commuters; low maintenance costs |
| SUV / Crossover | 200,000–250,000 miles | Great for families and weekend trips to Malibu or Big Bear |
| Truck (Ram, Silverado, F-150) | 250,000–300,000 miles | Popular for trades and off-road use |
| Hybrid / EV | 150,000–200,000 miles (battery dependent) | Check battery warranty; LA heat can affect lifespan |
What’s Average for Used Cars Sold in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles County, the majority of used vehicles for sale at reputable dealerships fall between 30,000 and 90,000 miles.
Luxury brands may have lower mileage, while trucks or Jeeps may show higher numbers due to utility use — but both can still be reliable options if well-maintained.
Smart Buying Tip: Always Factor in Cost Per Mile
Instead of focusing only on mileage, calculate cost per remaining mile:
Example:
A $20,000 SUV with 50,000 miles has roughly 150,000 miles of potential life left (at 200,000 total).
That’s 13¢ per remaining mile.
A $13,000 SUV with 130,000 miles and 70,000 miles of life left? That’s 19¢ per remaining mile.
The lower-priced car might not be the better value long-term.
Why Shop Certified Used Cars Near Los Angeles
At Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, every certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle is:
- 125-point inspected
- Backed by a factory warranty
- Reconditioned by factory-trained technicians
- Eligible for financing and extended service contracts
This means you can safely buy a car with higher mileage but guaranteed reliability, backed by dealer transparency and Carfax history.
Shop Certified Used Inventory
Apply for Financing
So, How Many Miles Is Too Much in Los Angeles?
There’s no single number — but generally:
- Under 100,000 miles = Ideal
- 100,000–150,000 miles = Acceptable if well-maintained
- 150,000+ miles = Proceed with inspection and warranty coverage
The bottom line: In Los Angeles, maintenance > mileage.
A well-kept 140,000-mile Jeep can outlast a neglected 60,000-mile sedan.
Final Word
When you’re buying used in LA, mileage should guide — not decide — your purchase. Always look at service records, ownership history, and condition before judging a car by its odometer.
For transparent pricing, detailed inspection reports, and expert guidance, visit Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, proudly serving Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks, Ventura County, and beyond.
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