What is the best age to buy a used truck? | USA-1 Buy Here Pay Here (2024)

FAQs

What is the best age to buy a used truck? | USA-1 Buy Here Pay Here? ›

Opting for a used truck near you that is still relatively young, such as 2 to 5 years old, can provide a balance between cost savings and a vehicle that is likely to have plenty of reliable years ahead. Maintenance and Repair Costs: As trucks age, they may require more maintenance and repairs.

The optimal time to purchase a used car is typically between 2 to 5 years old. Within this age range, the vehicle has already experienced the most significant depreciation, yet remains relatively new and in good condition.

A 2 to 5-year-old vehicle is often considered the “sweet spot” for used car purchases, but be sure to do your research and consider all relevant factors to make the right choice for your needs and preferences.

So, how many miles is too many miles for a used truck? Consider trucks under 100,000 miles for gas engines and 200,000 for diesel. Ideally, aim for under 60,000 miles to minimize maintenance concerns. Always check the truck's overall condition and maintenance history for the best value.

Additionally, maintenance costs can quickly add up as cars age. Parts are harder to find, and labor is more time-intensive. If these concerns make you uneasy, avoid cars over 20 years old. This rule of thumb may help ensure your vehicle choice is still safe, reliable, and affordable.

Cars over 10 years old can still be reliable. Most vehicles can last well over a decade with proper care and maintenance. In fact, the average car on U.S. roads is now 12.5 years old, according to a study from S&P Global Mobility. Furthermore, a car doesn't really stop depreciating until it hits that 10-year mark.

Used Trucks Experience Less Depreciation

Depreciation is when a vehicle loses value. New cars for sale immediately depreciate when they are driven off the lot. This immediate depreciation makes it a smart choice to buy a used truck for sale. You can find better value by pursuing a truck that is three to five years old.

What is considered high mileage on a car? Often, 100,000 miles is considered a cut-off point for used cars because older vehicles often start requiring more expensive and frequent maintenance when mileage exceeds 100,000.

The 100,000-mile mark is often cited as the point at which you should no longer consider purchasing a used truck. But there are plenty of trucks that'll last for a lot longer than this. In fact, it isn't uncommon at all for well-maintained trucks to last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles these days.

30,000 to 60,000 Miles

It's a good idea to sell your car before it hits 60,000 miles if you don't want to spend a lot of money on repairs and replacement parts. During this mileage bracket, your car should be about five years old, meaning it'll still command a substantial amount.

At what mileage should a car be replaced? ›

How many miles does a car last? A conventional car can last for 200,000 miles. Some well-maintained car models will reach 300,000 or more miles total.

It all depends on how well it has been maintained. Most of us start out with 10-15 year old cars. But if it hasn't been maintained well you will end up spending a ton of money on repairs.

The automotive industry has undergone significant technological advancements over the past two decades. Features such as advanced safety systems, infotainment, and fuel efficiency may be lacking in a 20-year-old car, potentially compromising the overall driving experience and safety.

It's no secret that the longer you have your vehicle, the more its value depreciates, so the sweet spot typically resides between five and eight years of ownership. Mileage can also play a big factor because if its mileage is higher than expected compared with its age, it could be worth less than you thought.

Trucks Have More Longevity Today

This means that when you purchase a modern truck, you can expect it to last for at least 10 years and 100,000 miles. With proper maintenance, you can extend those marks significantly, with the average truck being nearly twice as likely to last for 200,000 miles as the average vehicle.

Old trucks have plenty of strong points. You may have heard this statement many times, but it is true that as far as durability goes, older trucks were built differently. The design of their suspension, immensely simple engines, and fewer electronics mean that old trucks can keep on going forever.

California describes a “classic car” as a vehicle that is at least 25 years old.