Buying a car

I’m looking to buy a used Mercedes A Class and the average age of the car is around 8-10 years old. Could anyone give me some advice on what maximum mileage I should be looking at for a petrol or diesel car.

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supersnipe · 61-69, M Best Comment

Obviously the lower the better - there'll be less to do! But the important thing is that it's been looked after - full service record is a big plus. And if there are annual inspections where you are these can provide a clue as to whether the vehicle has been well kept.

Ian1892 · 41-45, M

@supersnipe I’ve found a A class around the 120,000 miles range (petrol) and is 10 years old. Obviously I would check the history but would you say that the 120,000 mileage is not that bad as long as it’s looked after.

supersnipe · 61-69, M

@Ian1892 That sounds about average use. If the maintenance has been done that's a good sign. Obvious provisos are that some things may be coming up for replacement (Starter? Water pump? Steering and suspension components?) but that's part of the deal when you buy secondhand.

I looked up that generation of 'A' Class in the 'Which?' reports (Consumers' Association in GB - they've been testing cars for over 60 years now) and they reckon it's a pretty decent car - well made and attractive. They reckon the petrol versions are more dependable than the diesels. The 'Which?' score is 64% and they recommend it.