Is the 100k mileage myth running out of road?

Six-figure mileage cars are no longer a red flag, as 35% of dealers report a growing demand from buyers looking beyond the odometer

Posted on Sep 14, 2026 by |

With more drivers looking to buy cars with over 100,000 miles on the clock, vehicle ownership expert, MotorEasy, is calling for the 100k mileage myth to finally be laid to rest. Over a third (35%) of car dealers think the market for six figure mileage cars is growing[i], and MotorEasy is encouraging motorists who remain unconvinced, not to dismiss high mileage gems.

It argues that mileage alone is no guarantee of a car’s condition. Savvy buyers who carefully check out the service, MOT and ownership history of 100k+ cars and protect their purchase with an extended warranty, can find a well-maintained bargain that will drive well for years.

MotorEasy’s advice comes as a Freedom of Information Request finds that over 1 in 10 of the 42.5 million cars on UK cars roads had between 100,000 and 150,000 miles on the odometer. Meanwhile more than six million cars registered by the DVLA have over 100,000 miles on the clock[ii].

Comments Duncan McClure Fisher, CEO of MotorEasy. “The UK’s car parc is getting older, so  used cars are naturally carrying more miles, meanwhile, cost of living pressures are squeezing buyer’s budgets. Motorists increasingly have to be realistic about what they can afford. Today’s modern cars are built to last though, so buyers who do their research into a vehicle’s service and maintenance history, can often find themselves a great well-maintained car at an affordable price.”

According to MotorEasy, buyers should look out for garaged gems, motorway milers and ex-lease cars. Garaged cars are often the pride and joy of ‘one careful owner’ meaning a high odometer reading may belie a well-loved and looked after vehicle. Cars that have spent most of their time on the motorway can also be attractive buys as long-distance driving tends to put less strain on the clutch, gearbox and engine. Ex-leased cars may fit the bill too, as lease contracts legally require drivers to service the car on time at an official dealer, meaning they often have a flawless service history.

Duncan McClure Fisher concludes, “Used car buyers should no longer fear the 100k mile mark. A properly maintained higher mileage vehicle often has plenty of life left in it. Once buyers have found the right car, an extended warranty can provide valuable protection against unexpected repair costs, while helping preserve the cars appeal and re-sale value when it is eventually time to sell. This puts drivers in control of future finances and helps protect their investment at the same time.”

MotorEasy provides extended warranties to car buyers and covers vehicles up to 150,000 miles. Customers can choose different warranty plans depending on the age, mileage and condition of the vehicle.

[i] https://cardealermagazine.co.uk/dealers-see-growing-demand-for-used-cars-with-more-than-100000-miles/325944?utm_source=chatgpt.com

[ii] https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/369550/uk-cars-rack-mega-mileages-6million-have-done-over-100k-miles-buyers-wont-touch-them?utm_source=chatgpt.com