Is 120,000 Kilometers Considered an Old Car?

[DeNova]

120,000 kilometers does not make a car old. 1. Condition assessment: A car's condition cannot be judged solely by mileage; the vehicle's age must also be considered. If a car has traveled 120,000 kilometers over 10 years, this mileage represents typical usage intensity for a family car. Under such usage conditions, if the vehicle has been properly maintained, it is unlikely to have significant issues. 2. Definition of an old car: Generally, cars can run for 200,000 to 300,000 kilometers. With 120,000 kilometers, the car is not considered old based on mileage alone. Typically, after 15 years of use, a car requires two annual inspections. The definition of an old car varies from person to person, and besides mileage, time standards should also be taken into account.

[LaWyatt]

I don't think 120,000 kilometers can be considered an old car. Automotive technology has improved significantly nowadays, with engines and transmissions being much more durable. Take my CRV for example - at this mileage, I've only changed the engine oil and brake pads a few times, and it still runs very smoothly. The key lies in regular maintenance: timely oil changes, chassis inspections, and replacing tires when needed. It could easily run another 50-60,000 kilometers without issues. Some German cars are actually in their prime at 120,000 km, as long as they haven't been in major accidents and the frame remains undamaged - this mileage really isn't that high. However, it's important to check rubber chassis components and suspension parts, as wear in these areas can cause unusual noises.

[JasperMarie]

Based on my decade-long experience in auto repair, a car with 120,000 kilometers can be considered middle-aged. Nowadays, the designed lifespan of household vehicles generally exceeds 200,000 kilometers, but this varies by brand and usage conditions. Japanese cars are typically more durable, while European vehicles with turbochargers require inspection at this stage. I've seen many ride-hailing cars still running strong at 200,000 kilometers - the key is regular maintenance. Pay special attention to the timing belt and cooling system, as repairs for these can be costly if problems arise. The automatic transmission fluid should also be replaced now, and the car can easily run for several more years without issues.

[DelOwen]

Actually, the condition of a vehicle cannot be judged solely by its mileage. My neighbor's Focus has only driven 80,000 kilometers in seven years, but the chassis is already rusting everywhere, while my Mazda has run 120,000 kilometers and still looks as good as new. Urban congested road conditions are the most damaging to a car, with the wear and tear from frequent engine starts and stops equivalent to 1.5 times that of highway driving. In the used car market, a vehicle with 120,000 kilometers is considered to be in average condition, and its price will be more than half the depreciation of a new car. It's recommended to check the catalytic converter and oxygen sensor, as aging of these two components can affect fuel consumption. Paying attention to changes in engine sound during daily driving is also essential.