When you're looking to upgrade to a different vehicle but you're working on a budget, a used car is your best option. So if you're looking for a quality vehicle that can step in as your new daily commuter around Atwater and Merced. While most drivers would suggest that you should shy away from a used car that has over 100,000 miles, that isn't necessarily a hard and fast rule.

If the vehicle has been taken care of and is well-maintained it could still be a very good buy. Take a look below to see some very important factors to consider when you're looking to make the switch to a used vehicle.

The Smart Way to Shop for a Used Car

When shopping for a used car there are some things you should look at in addition to the mileage:

• Usage - A car driven 75,000 miles in stop-and-go traffic will wear down sooner than one that has racked up 75,000 miles on the open highway. Make sure that you get the previous owner's driving history before you buy.
• Location - Vehicles that have been driven in a locale that has a dry, warm climate, undergo less stress than vehicles from areas that have a cold, wet climate.
• Condition - Get a certified mechanic to inspect the vehicle to determine if there are any issues, such as mechanical problems or rust, that will need to be dealt with. Figure this cost into your budget.
• Maintenance - Check the maintenance history of the vehicle to ensure that it has been kept up to date on routine services like oil changes. Irregular service history can be a sign of expensive problems in the future.

Choosing a Used Car Based on Mileage

Unfortunately, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to the question: "What is good mileage on a used car?" but there are ways we can help you determine if a used vehicle is the right choice for you. If a used car has 50,000 miles and seems to be working pretty well, then it's likely a good buy.

However, a cheap used car with 100,000 miles can probably last you another four years so long as it's in decent condition. The typical driver clocks about 12,000 miles per year, so keep this in mind when comparing mileage vs. age. It really all depends on how much you plan to be driving around Los Banos.

Mileage vs. Age

A newer car with high mileage may well be a better choice than a low-mileage older car. Make sure to take these factors into account when buying:

• A car that hasn't been driven regularly will often have higher repair costs. Mechanical issues, or problems with rubber seals and gaskets, can develop if a car isn't driven on a regular basis.
• A vehicle with a well-documented maintenance history is preferable to one that has been neglected.
• Low-mileage vehicles often come with a higher price tag.

Find Used Cars Near Merced Today

When you're ready to make the switch, be sure to contact us and our finance center team will show you all of your lease and finance options. And if you're looking for even more savings, you should take a look at our used vehicle specials. Whatever you're looking for, we're ready to help you find it.