Deciding which fleet cars to bring aboard comes with a lot of pressure. You’re responsible for making strategic purchasing decisions to ensure the business keeps running smoothly. Choose wrong, and you’re left with a fleet that isn’t running in tip-top form.
If you’re considering high-mileage used fleet vehicles, there are additional considerations to keep in mind. With over 100,000 miles or 150,000 km on the clock, high-mileage cars can be a riskier purchase compared to new ones. But with lower upfront, operational, and ownership costs, they do make a good business investment.
Buying high-mileage cars for your fleet is no different from purchasing any car. It requires thoughtful consideration and thorough research.
In This Article:
The Pros of Buying High-Mileage Vehicles for Fleets
High-mileage cars are a no-brainer for saving money upfront and in the long run.
Lower Purchase Price
The most obvious pro of choosing high-mileage vehicles for fleets is the lower upfront price. If you’re working with a limited budget, buying used with high mileage is better than buying new, without compromising quality.
Depreciation Benefits
High-mileage cars have already gone through the process of depreciation. Most new cars lose most of their value within the first three years. Because most of the depreciation has already occurred, any additional loss in value is typically minimal, making the vehicle easier to resell later.
Potential Value for Money
Even with depreciation and increased mileage, a high-mileage car can still be a good investment. All it takes is maintenance: a high-mileage vehicle that is well cared for and serviced can offer reliable service for many years, compared to a new car.
Negotiation Leverage
High-mileage vehicles offer more flexibility when it comes to purchasing price. Dealers are more willing to negotiate the price on a car that’s been sitting on the sales floor compared to a new car.
The Cons of Buying High-Mileage Vehicles for Fleets
While there are savings to be had with high-mileage vehicles, they do come with some risks you need to be aware of.
Increased Wear and Tear
As cars get older, the miles accumulate, and parts may experience accelerated wear:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Suspension
- Brakes
This is especially true for fleets covering large distances daily, weekly, and monthly. With a new car, you’ve got a lot more time before you need to replace parts. However, with high-mileage cars, this happens much more quickly. Before buying a high-mileage vehicle, consider the higher maintenance and repair costs in your budget.
Potential for Major Repairs
Because of wear and tear over time, it’s not uncommon for high-mileage vehicles to need more costly repairs: engine, transmission, or suspension work.
Cars with 100,000 miles or more on the clock commonly need replacement of the alternator, cabling, hoses, brake pads, and costly catalytic converters.
Reduced Warranty Coverage
New cars come with peace of mind in the form of warranty coverage. High-mileage cars don’t. Often, many high-mileage cars are sold “as-is”, which is why they’re a lot more affordable. However, this means that any future repairs will be your responsibility.
Lower Resale Value
While the upfront costs of buying a high-mileage vehicle are considerably lower, so will be the resale value. If you’re hoping to make money back at resale, you’ll be better off buying a new car with less mileage.
Key Considerations When Evaluating High-Mileage Vehicles for Fleets
As a fleet manager, there are a number of factors you will need to consider when choosing a vehicle that meets your fleet’s needs.
Maintenance History
The best way to determine whether a vehicle is less likely to require major repairs or problems after purchase is to review its maintenance history. An incomplete or missing maintenance history is a red flag.
Running a simple VIN check is the easiest way to learn a vehicle’s service history.
Pre-Purchase Inspection
Buying a high-mileage vehicle without a pre-purchase inspection is risky. Even if you think you “know cars,” having a trusted mechanic inspect the car to identify potential issues is recommended.
Vehicle Model Longevity
The make and model you choose can play a big role in determining how long it will typically run. Some brands have built a reputation for designing cars that are reliable and long-lasting. You’ll want to avoid models that are hard to find parts for.
Ownership Costs
For fleet managers, the upfront price is only one component of a vehicle’s overall ownership cost. There are operational costs like increased vehicle maintenance costs, fuel, tax, insurance, and unexpected repairs that come with a high-mileage car.
Tips for Maximizing the Value of High-Mileage Fleet Vehicles
Purchasing fleet vehicles is an investment in the business, so you’ll want to maximize the value where you can.
Regular Maintenance
Because of the high wear and tear on a high-mileage vehicle, regular maintenance is non-negotiable. It’s an accepted fact that a well-maintained vehicle will run longer and more smoothly.
Regular maintenance will include:
- Oil changes every ~5,000 miles
- Rotate tires and balance every ~6,000 miles
- Replace air filters every ~15,000 miles
- Change brake fluid every 60,000 miles
- Replace the fuel filter and spark plugs every 30,000 miles
Use Fleet Management Software
From optimizing routes to scheduling maintenance, being a fleet manager can feel like you’re needed in two places at once. Using fleet management software can help you keep track of maintenance schedules so that vehicles continue to perform and are safe to drive.
Driver Education
Drivers also play a role in ensuring a high-mileage vehicle runs as long as possible. It is a good idea to train drivers on how to handle high-mileage vehicles to avoid unnecessary wear and tear. Training can teach drivers to avoid aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration, rough gear changes, and sudden braking.
Conclusion
High-mileage vehicles make sense as a business investment. They have a lower purchase price, good value for money, and don’t experience the large depreciation that new cars do. But while they can be a smart purchase, it’s important to do your research first.
Don’t get distracted by the appealing price tag. Always consider the maintenance history, the overall condition, and the potential repair costs. Compare the pros and cons to see if high-mileage vehicles are the right choice for your fleet.
Patrick Peterson
Patrick has been with GoodCar for six years, after previously working as a professional vehicle appraiser. He spent years inspecting used vehicles and evaluating post-accident damage. Now, as an Auto expert and team lead at GoodCar, he brings that hands-on experience into creating practical, data-backed content that helps drivers avoid costly mistakes and make smarter car-buying decisions.
