By EpicVIN Research Team
If you’re thinking of selling your car, one number matters more than any other — the mileage on your odometer. When does that number start to scare buyers away? And when is the best time to sell before your car loses too much value? Here’s what EpicVIN data and industry experts have to say.
What EpicVIN Data Shows
EpicVIN has analyzed over 3.4 million vehicle listings and 9.7 million auction records to identify patterns in used car resale behavior. Here’s what our team found:
- Vehicles with over 100,000 miles on them take approximately 36% longer to sell than do vehicles with under 100,000.
- These vehicles from the 60,000 and 80,000-mile listings run the fastest on the average U.S. state lots.
- After 120,000 miles, market value drops sharply — especially for sedans and crossovers.
- Trucks and SUVs maintain value slightly longer, often until 150,000 miles, depending on service records.
“We’ve seen a clear drop in buyer interest around the 100K mark. Most buyers expect major maintenance costs soon after that point, so selling before this milestone usually brings a better return.” Alex Black, CMO of EpicVIN
Why Mileage Matters to Buyers
Buyers don’t just care about how much a car has driven — they care about what comes next. High mileage often means:
- Worn brakes, suspension, and tires
- Upcoming timing belt or transmission service
- Shorter remaining lifespan without major repairs
Even if your car runs well, the perception of risk increases with every mile.
Best Mileage Ranges to Sell Your Car
Based on our research and dealership trends, here are the most common “cut-off” points:
30,000–40,000 miles
- Car is still under factory warranty
- Highest resale value, especially for leases
60,000–70,000 miles
- Just before major maintenance (spark plugs, tires, brakes)
- Popular range for budget buyers looking for value
90,000–100,000 miles
- Last window to sell before price drops sharply
- Still decent demand for well-maintained vehicles
120,000+ miles
- Considered “high mileage” by most buyers
- Harder to sell without full service records
Pro Tip: Mileage Isn’t Everything
Mileage is important — but condition matters more. A well-maintained car with 110,000 miles can be more desirable than a neglected one with 70,000. That’s why buyers use EpicVIN vehicle history reports to check:
- Service history
- Past accidents
- Title status (clean, rebuilt, salvage)
- Ownership records
This data gives confidence to buyers, especially when mileage is higher.
What Reddit Users Say:
A thread in r/askcarsales backs up EpicVIN’s findings. One user wrote:
“As a former used car manager, anything under 100K is easier to move. Over that, buyers get nervous unless it’s a Toyota or Honda.”
Another user pointed out:
“70K to 80K is the sweet spot. You’ve used the car, but it’s still reliable and not close to needing major work.”

Final Thoughts
If you’re selling your car, remember:
- Under 100,000 miles sells faster and for more.
- 60K–70K is the “sweet spot” before expensive services.
- Full service records can protect your car’s value — no matter the mileage.
- Use a VIN report to build trust with buyers and close deals faster.
Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or just cashing in — EpicVIN can help you understand your car’s real market value.
Check your VIN now and see if it’s the right time to sell. For more information on current and used vehicles, visit our Drive section.
And as always if you need a recommendation to a trusted dealer, let us know at blog@dallassinglemom.com













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