can u buy a car with 2 hundred thousand miles

[LeAlana]

Yes, you can buy a car with 200,000 miles, but it's a high-risk purchase that requires extreme caution. The decision hinges almost entirely on the vehicle's maintenance history and specific model reputation. A well-maintained Toyota Camry or Honda Accord with 200,000 miles can be a more reliable bet than a neglected luxury car with half the mileage. Your primary focus should be on a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted, independent mechanic to identify any impending major repairs.

Cars at this mileage are nearing the end of their typical lifespan for many components. You should budget for significant repairs from the start. Common issues include transmission failure, engine problems like oil burning or timing belt replacement, and suspension wear. The key is to avoid financial surprise.

High-Mileage Champion Models (Examples)	Potential Money Pits (Examples)
Toyota Camry, Avalon	Luxury brands (out-of-warranty BMW, Mercedes)
Honda Accord, CR-V	Models with known transmission issues (e.g., some older Nissans)
Lexus ES, RX	Complex turbocharged engines
Ford Crown Victoria	European cars with expensive proprietary parts
Toyota 4Runner, Land Cruiser	High-performance sports cars

The single most important document is a complete, verifiable service record. A car with consistent oil changes, fluid flushes, and scheduled maintenance is a far better prospect. Without this history, you're gambling. Be prepared to walk away from any car that fails a mechanic's inspection or has a spotty maintenance past. This purchase is best suited for a savvy buyer who can handle minor repairs or has a separate fund for major ones.

[KaiAnn]

I've done it twice. My daily driver is a pickup with 230,000 miles. The secret? I only buy models known for durability, like older Toyotas or that legendary Ford Crown Vic. I take it to my mechanic before I even talk price. He checks for rust, transmission slippage, and engine compression. I walk away if there's no service paperwork. It's cheap transportation, but you have to be smart and assume something will break. Have a backup plan.

[RubyRose]

Think of it as buying the previous owner, not the car. A 200,000-mile vehicle owned by a meticulous person who kept every receipt is a world apart from one with an unknown past. Your mission is to become a detective. Ask for all service records. Look for signs of care inside and out. A clean, well-kept interior often hints at mechanical care. If the owner can't tell you when the timing belt was last changed, consider that a major red flag.