In today’s used automobile industry, low mileage vehicles are gaining higher resale value—even in the countries that hardly cared about them before. A motor vehicle’s mileage is becoming one of the critical things an auto buyer has in mind when going to a dealership or anywhere to buy a car. And yes, it can considerably impact customers’ buying decisions.
That is why some auto sellers use extra lengths to manipulate the speedometer. It might interest you to know whether the vehicle you intend to buy has an original mileage to determine the actual resale value.
Mileage Is Crucial Whether Buying An Auto Online Or Offline
Why should mileage be a significant factor when searching for a car to buy? In most cases, a buyer seeks second-hand autos with less usage history. In some countries like Germany, it is rarely guaranteed if a vehicle exceeds 200000 km (two hundred thousand kilometers) in its speedometer (Gewährleistung).
However, it can only happen if a car dealer and buyer have an exclusive written agreement. Here, the dealer may give a warranty for a particular component, the engine, transmission, or any expensive part of the vehicle. Third-party insurance handles it and not the seller.
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Checking A Vehicle Mileage Of Manipulation
Mileage is not just a number. It tells you the distance in which a vehicle is covered. It can also show how the usage of the car at the time you are to buy it. The honest car sellers keep the original mileage intact. They do not manipulate the speedometer—no matter how high it may be.
Nevertheless, if you want to check a vehicle’s mileage of manipulation before buying it, there are companies in our network that will do it professionally. They can also check if an auto has had an accident in the past.
Let us do the legwork for you while you relax. Click below to be part of our network and get a free consultation.
But When Is Mileage For A Vehicle Low And Good?
A car driven up to 15000 kilometers per year covering about 150000 kilometers is considerably low and a reasonable distance in ten years in Germany. The demand for original low-mileage cars is getting high in Africa. The number of kilometers a vehicle covers influences the buyer’s decision; it becomes a significant concern for importers when buying used cars from Germany.
Do Most German Used Cars Have Original Mileage?
Most cars used in Germany have original mileage because Germans use other means of transportation like bicycles, public transport, and sharing car journeys (carpooling) to run their daily activities. Besides, having more than one car in a German household is expected to be used interchangeably within the family. There are reasons why some car owners use their motor vehicles only for what is necessary in the country. And these are some of the reasons:
- To reduce environmental pollution.
- Lessen the cost of traveling by car.
- Maintain moderate usage to increase the second-hand value of a vehicle.
- To minimize the cost of maintenance.
- Sometimes, I like to be driven by others.
Whatever way or means an auto owner uses to keep his vehicle’s mileage low, it will increase the car’s value at last, and this can make a significant difference when selling it in the used automobile market later. The examples below show how this can happen.
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Example One – Karl: The Low-Mileage Driver
Karl, the proud first owner of a Mercedes C180 with an automatic transmission, registered his beloved car on the 14th of February, 1998. For 22 years, he has been more than just a driver; he’s been a caretaker and an environmental activist. To Karl, his car is not merely a means of transportation but a cherished family member.
Whenever his car shows signs of distress, Karl promptly takes it to a mechanic, ensuring it receives the best care possible. His garage is a haven for his Mercedes C-Class, protecting it from the elements.
Over the years, Karl’s Mercedes C180 has become an integral part of his family and lifestyle. Even Karl Junior, now 21, grew up with the Mercedes as a constant presence. Today, they fondly reminisce about the fantastic journeys they’ve embarked on together.
Karl’s exceptional treatment of his C180 Benz is evident in his driving habits. He only drives when necessary and addresses any issues immediately, keeping the mileage low. This meticulous maintenance has preserved the car and enhanced its second-hand value, as evidenced by its service history.
Over 22 years, Karl’s Mercedes C180 has covered about 150,000 kilometers, averaging approximately 6819km per year and 568km monthly.
Example Two – Max: The High-Mileage Driver
Max is a man with a laid-back approach to life. He owns the same make and model of the C180 automatic transmission as Karl. However, Max’s approach to car maintenance is reactive rather than proactive; he only fixes issues when components break down completely.
Max uses his vehicle intensively for his job, which is not inherently problematic, but it does raise questions about which car would have a higher resale value.
Max’s home is about 96km from his workplace. He makes this round trip 25 days a month, racking up approximately 2400km monthly and 28800km yearly. If Max maintains the same workplace for 22 years, his C-Class would clock in at about 633600km. The difference in mileage compared to Karl’s car is substantial.
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Some Potential Differences Between Karl And Max’s Driving Habits:
- Maintenance and Repairs: Karl is proactive about maintenance and repairs. He addresses issues immediately, even minor ones, to keep his car in optimal condition. On the other hand, Max tends to wait until components break down entirely before fixing them.
- Usage: Karl only drives his car when necessary, which helps keep the mileage low. Max, however, uses his vehicle intensively for his job, resulting in a much higher mileage.
- Treatment of the Car: Karl treats his car as a cherished family member, giving it exceptional care and attention. Max views his car more as a tool for getting from point A to point B.
- Environmental Impact: As an ecological activist, Karl likely minimizes his car’s environmental impact by driving less or ensuring his vehicle runs as efficiently as possible. Max’s intensive car use could have a more significant environmental impact.
- Resale Value: Due to his meticulous maintenance and lower mileage, Karl’s car likely has a higher resale value. Despite having the same make and model, Max’s car, with its higher mileage and reactive maintenance approach, might fetch a lower price on the second-hand market.
Remembering that a new car can lose up to 60% of its value in the first three years alone is also essential. Used vehicles retain their value as quickly as new cars. When deciding what car to buy, it’s crucial to consider depreciation as it can be the most significant cost of ownership in many cases.
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Things That Improves A Car Resale Value:
Regular Maintenance: Keep up with the car’s maintenance schedule as outlined in the owner’s manual. Frequent inspections, oil changes, and timely repairs can help maintain the car’s performance and longevity.
Low Mileage: The fewer miles a car has traveled, the higher its resale value.
Documented Service History: Keep a logbook of all maintenance and repair work. A well-documented service history can reassure potential buyers that the car has been well-maintained¹.
Physical Protection: Protect the car from weather damage by parking it in a garage or under a carport.
Cleanliness: Regularly clean the car inside and out. Most people associate cleanliness with care; a clean car can fetch a higher price.
Replace Worn or Old Components: Replacing worn-out or old parts can boost the car’s resale value.
Performance Enhancements: Adding performance enhancements, such as a more performance-focused air filter or an upgraded exhaust system, can increase the car’s value.
Modify its appearance: This can be anything from adding a body kit, new wheels, or a new paint job.
Remember, the key is to take good care of your car from the start. This will help maintain its value and ensure it serves you well during your ownership.
Some Common Mistakes To Avoid When Selling A Used Car:
Not Knowing Your Car’s Value: Many sellers need to know what their car is worth, which can lead to overpricing or underpricing.
Spending Too Much on Repairs: Making extensive repairs to your car will allow you to ask for a slightly higher price, but it will never even come close to covering what you spent on the repairs.
Being Less Than Honest About the Car’s Condition: It’s always best to be honest with prospective buyers about your car’s condition.
Pretending There Are Other Great Offers: Avoid trying to make it seem like there are many other great offers on your car if there aren’t.
Taking the First Offer that Comes in: If you’re anxious about getting rid of your car, accepting the first offer is tempting.
Avoid checks if possible: A check can take several days to clear.
Only sign the title after you have the money in hand. Don’t agree to monthly payments.
Meet in a public location for test drives: Always ask for a driver’s license.
Bring someone you know with you if you’re concerned for safety.
Not Having a Pricing Strategy: Before you start, decide what you want and how long you will work to get it.
Not Cleaning Your Car: A clean car can fetch a higher price.
Starting at a Non-Specialized Dealership: If you’re selling to a dealership, make sure it specializes in your car’s make.
Avoiding Negotiation: Be bold and negotiate the price with potential buyers.
Failing to Inform Yourself of Tax Benefits: You might be eligible for tax benefits when selling your car.
Knowing The Original Vehicle’s Mileage Is Crucial When Buying A Car
It is significant to a vehicle’s mileage, a crucial factor when buying a car the next. Some auto sellers do a lot these days to keep the distance an auto covers very low. Why? Because there is a big difference in price if a motor vehicle has traveled 100,000 km or 300,000 km. So you should not pay more than the actual value of the car. Remember, there is a system to check manipulation in a speedometer.
Let us take care of your concerns: Car Buying In Germany: Exclusive Services Best For Non-residents
Conclusion
In conclusion, a car’s mileage plays a significant role in the decision-making process of potential buyers. Low-mileage vehicles are increasingly sought after, even in countries that previously didn’t place much emphasis on them. A car’s mileage can provide valuable insights into its usage history and potential future performance.
In Germany, for instance, a car driven up to 150,000 kilometers over ten years is considered to have low mileage. This is particularly relevant for importers who are buying used cars from Germany for resale in Africa.
Moreover, maintaining low mileage can significantly enhance a vehicle’s resale value in the used car market. This is why some car owners go to great lengths to keep their vehicle’s mileage low, such as utilizing alternative modes of transportation or participating in carpooling.
Therefore, whether you’re a buyer or a seller, it’s crucial to consider a vehicle’s mileage. For buyers, it’s advisable to have the car’s mileage professionally checked to ensure accuracy. For sellers, keeping the original mileage intact, regardless of how high it may be, can ultimately increase the car’s value in the used car market.
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