High miles: what matters more than the odometer

What matters more

1. 1
   Service records
   Regular oil changes, fluid services, and big scheduled jobs like a timing belt. Records are the best sign a car was cared for.
2. 2
   How the miles were driven
   Steady highway miles are easier on a car than lots of short, cold trips and stop-and-go traffic.
3. 3
   Owners and history
   Fewer owners and no accidents or title brands on the history report make the past easier to trust.
4. 4
   Where it lived
   Cars that spent their lives in New Mexico's dry climate usually have less rust than cars from snowy states that salt their roads.
5. 5
   What you can see
   Tire and brake wear, leaks, warning lights, and how it drives tell you what's coming up next.

On the test drive

• Start it cold if you can. It should start easily and settle into a smooth idle.
• No warning lights on the dash once it's running.
• Shifts should be smooth, with no slipping, flaring or clunks.
• It should drive and brake straight, without shaking or grinding.
• Listen for clunks over bumps and noises in tight, slow turns.
• Look under the car where it was parked for drips.

What we can show you

Ask us for the car's Carfax report and any service records we have. Each model guide also lists what's worth checking on that generation, and you're welcome to have an independent mechanic look it over first.