"Is that a lot of miles for its age?" is one of the first questions about any used car. This checker compares the odometer reading with the miles a car of that age would have at a typical rate, and tells you whether it's below, around or above that benchmark.
How it works
- Age is measured from January 1 of the model year to today (with a minimum of three months, since model years often go on sale the previous fall).
- Expected miles = age × the benchmark miles per year.
- The result compares the odometer with the expected figure. Within 25% either way is shown as "about typical"; that band is our choice for a quick read, not an official standard.
Where the benchmark comes from
The default of 13,500 miles a year is rounded from the Federal Highway Administration's estimate of 13,476 average annual miles per driver (FHWA (opens in a new tab)). It's an average across drivers, and actual use varies a lot by age, region and job. Rural and long-commute areas tend to be higher. Change the benchmark if you have a better figure for your situation.
Reading the result
- Below typical isn't automatically good. A car that sat for long periods can need tires (rubber ages), fluids, a battery and seals. Ask how it was stored and look for regular service anyway.
- About typical is the most common case. Condition and records decide the rest.
- Above typical isn't automatically bad. Highway miles are gentler than short city trips, and a high-mileage car with complete service records can be a better buy than a low-mileage one with none. Our guide on high-mileage used cars goes deeper.
Frequently asked questions
How many miles per year is normal for a car?
US drivers average roughly 13,500 miles a year according to the FHWA, but anywhere from about 10,000 to 15,000 is common, and many cars sit well outside that.
Is 100,000 miles too much for a used car?
Not necessarily. Many modern cars run well past 150,000 miles with good maintenance. Records, condition and a pre-purchase inspection matter more than the number.
Do low-mileage cars have problems?
They can. Long periods of sitting can dry out seals and tires, flatten batteries and leave old fluids in place. Ask about storage and service history.
Results are estimates from the numbers you enter and, where noted, EPA ratings. Not financial advice. Page updated .