High Mileage Used Cars: How Many Kilometres Is Too Many?

When you're shopping for a used car, one of the first questions you'll probably ask is: how many kilometres is too many? With high mileage used cars, the short answer is that they can still be a reliable, worthwhile buy if they've been properly maintained, have a full service history, and are in good overall condition.

The answer isn't as simple as picking a number on the odometer. A vehicle with 180,000km that's been properly maintained can often be a better buy than one with 90,000km that's missed regular servicing.

At Gerry Caffrey Motors, we've helped drivers, couples, and families across Dublin and South Dublin find reliable used cars for years. In our experience, service history and overall condition matter far more than mileage alone. Conducting a thorough service history check and obtaining a detailed vehicle history report is essential to ensure the vehicle has been well looked after.

This guide explains what counts as good mileage for a used car, what to check before you buy, how finance can affect your decision, and how high mileage models compare with lower-mileage used cars and new cars—so you can buy with more confidence and avoid expensive surprises.

Is High Mileage Always a Bad Thing?

Not at all.

Modern vehicles, including popular used models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Yaris, and Skoda Octavia, are built to last much longer than many people realise. With proper maintenance, it's not unusual for a well-looked-after car to exceed 250,000km while remaining dependable.

Rather than focusing only on the mileage, consider:

• Regular maintenance with proven components
• Type of driving (motorway or city) and wear and tear
• Overall condition and build quality
• NCT history and previous ownership
• Complete service history and detailed vehicle history checks

A car that's spent most of its life on motorways will often experience less wear than one used exclusively for stop-start driving around Dublin, and this is especially true for diesel vehicles, where repeated short urban trips can increase wear compared with longer runs.

What Is Good Used Car Mileage?

There's no perfect mileage when buying a used car, but understanding the numbers can help you make a more informed decision.

Generally, a car with under 60,000km is considered low mileage and will usually command a higher price. A car with 150,000km should be cheaper than one with 60,000km. Vehicles with 60,000 to 120,000km are often seen as the sweet spot, offering a good balance between value and plenty of life remaining.

Cars with 120,000 to 180,000km are very common in Ireland, particularly family cars and commuter vehicles. At this stage, a complete service history becomes even more important than the mileage itself.

Once a vehicle has covered more than 180,000km, many buyers become cautious. Once a vehicle passes major mileage milestones, its resale value usually drops, but these cars also tend to depreciate less because much of the value loss has already happened. However, high mileage doesn't automatically mean a car should be avoided. If it has been regularly serviced, has a solid NCT history, and is in excellent overall condition, it can still provide years of reliable motoring.

The average mileage for Irish drivers is around 15,000–18,000 kilometres each year, so it's always worth comparing the mileage against the vehicle's age. A three-year-old car should have around 51,000km, and a five-year-old car with 90,000km, for example, may have simply been driven a typical amount for Irish roads.

In our experience, we'd much rather recommend a well-maintained vehicle with slightly higher mileage than a lower-mileage car that has been poorly looked after. Good mileage depends on the car's age, how it was used, and how well it was maintained, which also matters if you later decide to sell.

Why Service History Is More Important Than Mileage

If there's one thing we always tell customers, it's this:

A full service history is often more valuable than a low reading on the clock.

We regularly see higher-mileage vehicles that have been meticulously maintained outperform lower-mileage cars that haven't been serviced properly, especially when proper checks help spot mileage discrepancies in the data.

Look for evidence of:

• Cooling system servicing with genuine or quality replacement parts
• Brake maintenance and tyre replacement
• Oil and filter changes
• Scheduled servicing and timing belt replacement where applicable

A documented maintenance record shows the previous owner invested in the car's long-term reliability, and thorough history checks can also reveal accidents or signs the clock reading may not be accurate, which can help you buy with confidence and insure your vehicle more cheaply.

How Long Should a Modern Car Last?

Today's cars are engineered for longevity, but much depends on how well the engine has been maintained.

Many modern vehicles can comfortably reach:

• Even beyond, with consistent servicing and attention to wear and tear
• 300,000km
• 250,000km

With regular maintenance, buyers can reasonably expect that kind of lifespan from many well-kept cars.

That's particularly true of Japanese manufacturers known for reliability, such as Honda, Toyota, and Suzuki, whether they use petrol, hybrid, or electric drivetrains, as maintenance and real-world use still matter more than mileage alone.

Suzuki models such as the Vitara, Swift, and S-Cross have developed an excellent reputation among Irish drivers for dependable performance, economical running costs, and long vehicle lifespan. These new cars and used models benefit from strong reliability ratings and proven components.

Buying a Used Car in Ireland: What Else Should You Check?

Mileage should never be your only consideration.

Before buying, always inspect:

NCT History

Previous NCT results can reveal recurring advisories or issues that may need attention in the future, helping you avoid major issues and serious problems.

Vehicle History

Check for:

• mileage discrepancies
• Import status
• Previous ownership
• Accident history
• Outstanding finance

A proper history check also helps confirm the vehicle's condition before you buy.

Service Records

A stamped service book or detailed maintenance invoices provide valuable reassurance and can confirm the vehicle's service history check.

Suspension and Tyres

Irish roads can take their toll on suspension components. Uneven tyre wear may indicate alignment or suspension problems, which are common wear and tear issues.

Signs of Corrosion

Ireland's damp climate means rust can become an issue if a vehicle hasn't been properly maintained, and on an older car, corrosion can be a bigger problem than engine wear if the body or underside has been neglected.

Does High Mileage Affect Finance?

Not necessarily.

Most finance providers consider several other factors rather than mileage alone. They'll typically look at the vehicle's age, condition, value, and expected lifespan alongside your own financial circumstances.

A well-maintained used car with higher mileage may still qualify for competitive finance options, particularly if it's from a manufacturer with a strong reputation for reliability.

At Gerry Caffrey Motors, we help customers find finance solutions that suit their budget, whether they're buying a quality used Suzuki or choosing a brand-new model.

Should You Buy New or Used?

Both options have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your budget and driving needs.

Buying Used

Buying used can offer:

• A wider choice within your budget
• Lower purchase price
• Lower depreciation, as high-mileage cars have often already lost much of their value, which can make them a cheap way to buy
• Better value for money

This can suit buyers looking for a more economical option in the used market.

Buying New

Buying new gives you:

• More opportunities to personalise your vehicle
• The latest technology and safety features
• Manufacturer warranty

Many Irish motorists choose nearly new Suzuki models because they combine modern features with significant savings compared to buying brand new.

Reliable Used Cars for Irish Roads

If reliability is high on your list, Suzuki continues to be one of the most trusted manufacturers.

Suzuki Vitara

The Vitara is a practical SUV that's equally comfortable on busy Dublin streets and longer drives across Ireland. Its reliability, fuel efficiency and raised driving position make it a popular family choice.

Suzuki Swift

Compact, economical and enjoyable to drive, the Swift is ideal for commuting, first-time drivers, and anyone looking for low running costs without compromising on quality.

Suzuki S-Cross

The S-Cross offers generous interior space, excellent fuel economy and impressive comfort, making it a great option for families or drivers who regularly travel longer distances.

Other Reliable Used Models

Consider also the Honda Civic, known for its durability and strong build quality, often lasting between 200,000 and 300,000 miles. The Toyota Yaris scores 89/100 in reliability surveys, making it a great choice for city driving and first car buyers. The Skoda Octavia is praised for its longevity and took first place in a reliability survey, with many examples reaching 500,000 km with proper servicing. Kia is also well regarded by owners for value, practicality, and long warranty cover in the used market.

Imported Cars and VRT

If you're considering importing a used car into Ireland, remember that the purchase price is only part of the overall cost.

You'll also need to consider:

• Revenue requirements
• Registration deadlines
• NOx charges where applicable
• Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT)

Taking these costs into account before buying can help you avoid unexpected surprises.

Questions to Ask Before Buying

Before committing to a used car, it's worth asking a few important questions.

• Has it been imported?
• Does it come with two keys?
• Is it being sold privately or through dealers?
• Has an independent mechanic inspected it before you sell or buy?
• Has it been involved in any accidents?
• Has the timing belt been replaced if required?
• Has it recently passed its NCT?
• Is there a full service history?
• Has it been serviced regularly?

The answers often tell you much more than the mileage alone.

So, How Many Kilometres Is Too Many?

There's no single number that automatically makes a used car a poor purchase.

A vehicle with 200,000km and an excellent maintenance record can easily be a better investment than one with 80,000km that has been neglected.

When assessing used car mileage, always consider the complete picture:

• How the car has been driven
• Previous ownership
• NCT history
• Reliability
• Vehicle condition
• Service history

At Gerry Caffrey Motors, we carefully select premium used vehicles that meet high standards for quality, reliability and value. Whether you're upgrading your current car, trading in your existing vehicle or buying your next car or first car, our experienced team is here to help you find a car you can rely on for years to come.

Thinking about upgrading to a Suzuki? Visit Gerry Caffrey Motors in Terenure, Dublin 6W, and explore our range of premium used cars and the latest Suzuki models. We'd be delighted to help you find the right vehicle for your lifestyle and budget.