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I'm looking at buying a car and have found a 2004 Mitsubishi Diamante ES Wagon for $5900. The only problem with the car is the high odometer reading (214000km's).

The car is not going to be use that often, at most once a week and the occasional road trip.

I was wondering if you would be able to give me some advice on how concerned I should be about the mileage and what I should check when inspecting and driving it. Or do you think I should be looking at something with a lower mileage, but older and if you are aware of any known problems with this type of car?

John

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 16 September 2009

The odometer reading would worry me to be honest.

If the vehicle comes with an in-depth service history however including cam belt replacement, regular transmission and coolant fluid changes then it may be a risk worth taking.

Regardless of the care taken with a high mileage vehicle, components like the suspension tend to suffer and frustrating issues like oil leaks and electrical problems can develop.

Most manufactures say around 200,000kms is the end of a cars viable life although there are numerous stories of vehicles travelling double that distance with excellent reliability records. Taxis and courier vehicles are good examples of this.

Resale value will also be very low when it comes time to move the vehicle on.

I would definitely recommend a pre-purchase check before you commit if you did decide to take the next step.