A good mileage to start considering getting rid of an older car is between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. Usually around this mileage is when major components like the engine, transmission, and suspension start needing repairs. Once fixing a vehicle starts to cost more than it's worth, then it's time to move on.
Mileage thresholds to watch:
- 100,000 miles: Timing belt, water pump
- 150,000 miles: Transmission
- 200,000 miles: Engine wear, oil consumption, and system failures increase
- 250,000+ miles: Scrapping becomes the best option, few buyers are interested
Maintenance history also matters. There are some high-mileage vehicles that last great due to the proper maintenance of the vehicle throughout its history. So mileage alone doesn't always determine when to sell but it's something to keep an eye on as the vehicle ages.
Once you're past the point of practical repair, calculate whether fixing it makes sense.
