When it comes to buying a used car, one of the first things shoppers tend to ask about is kilometers . It is often assumed that the lower the kilometers on the odometer, the better the vehicle. While kilometers does matter! It is not the only factor that determines the quality or longevity of a car. In fact, focusing solely on mileage can cause buyers to overlook other equally important details. Ones that impact the overall value and reliability of a vehicle. At 306 Deal, we specialize in helping drivers across Saskatchewan find high-quality used vehicles. Whether you are exploring our inventory, considering a trade-in appraisal. Or ready to book a test drive, our goal is to ensure you understand what truly matters when shopping for your next car.
Why Kilometers Alone Does Not Tell the Full Story
A car with low kilometers is not automatically in better condition than one with higher kilometers . For example, a 10-year-old car that has only been driven 60,000 kilometers might seem appealing. However, if that vehicle has not been properly maintained. With regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and inspections, it could be in worse shape than a five-year-old car with 120,000 kilometers that has been serviced consistently.
The truth is that maintenance history and how the vehicle was driven matter! Just as much as the number on the odometer. A well-kept higher kilometers vehicle often outperforms a poorly maintained low-kilometers one.
The Importance of Maintenance Records
When buying a used car, always ask for service history. Regular oil changes, brake inspections, fluid flushes, and tire rotations show that the previous owner took care of the vehicle. At 306 Deal, we carefully inspect and review the condition of every car before adding it to our inventory, so you can shop with confidence knowing maintenance has been a priority.
City Driving vs. Highway Driving
Not all kilometers are equal. A car that has mostly seen highway driving often experiences less wear and tear than one driven primarily in stop-and-go city traffic. Highway kilometers are typically easier on the engine, brakes, and transmission, while city driving can cause more stress on these systems. This means that a car with 150,000 kilometers of mostly highway driving could be in better condition than a city-driven car with 100,000 kilometers.
Age and Vehicle Condition
The age of a vehicle is another factor to consider. Rubber components like belts and hoses, as well as fluids, can deteriorate over time, even if the car has low kilometers . A car that sits unused for long periods might also experience issues with its battery, tires, and seals. That is why condition, age, and how the vehicle was stored are just as important as kilometers .
Modern Cars Are Built to Last
Another reason not to focus solely on kilometers is that modern cars are built with better materials, advanced engineering, and improved technology. Vehicles like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Toyota RAV4 are known to easily surpass 250,000 kilometers or more with proper care. That means a used car with higher kilometers can still provide years of dependable driving if maintained correctly.
How 306 Deal Helps You Shop Smarter
At 306 Deal, we believe in full transparency when it comes to used vehicles. Our team helps you look beyond just the odometer by reviewing service history, vehicle condition, and ownership details. We provide high-quality used cars, trucks, and SUVs that you can trust.
If you are ready to shop smarter, here are a few ways to connect with us:
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Browse our current inventory to see what is available now
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Book a test drive and get a feel for how the vehicle performs in person
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Use our trade-in appraisal tool to see what your current vehicle is worth
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Explore financing options by getting pre-approved or completing our credit application online
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Call our friendly team directly at (306) 374-3325 for personalized help
306 Deal’s Thoughts
Kilometers is important, but it is not everything when shopping for a used car. Factors such as maintenance history, driving conditions, vehicle age, and overall condition should all be considered before making a purchase. A higher-kilometers vehicle that has been cared for can often be a smarter buy than a low-kilometers one with little maintenance.
At 306 Deal, our goal is to make sure you drive away in a vehicle that fits your needs, budget, and peace of mind. Explore our inventory, book a test drive, or apply for financing today. With the right knowledge and the right dealership, you can shop confidently knowing you are getting real value for your money.