When talking about used cars, the term "mileage" is one of the most common aspects that comes up in conversation. You will hear people say a vehicle has "low mileage" or "high mileage," and often these labels influence how we perceive the condition or value of the car. But what exactly do these terms mean, and how is mileage calculated?
Mileage refers to the total distance a car has travelled since it was manufactured.
This is tracked by the car’s odometer, a built-in device on the dashboard that records every kilometre the vehicle covers.
In Uganda, like in many other countries that use the metric system, this distance is displayed in kilometres.
Each time the vehicle is driven, the odometer adds up the distance automatically. For example, a round trip between Kampala and Gulu would add hundreds of kilometres to the car’s mileage, even if the vehicle is in perfect working condition.
Generally, a car is expected to accumulate about 15 to 20,000 kilometres per year. That estimate is based on average driving habits and helps to give context to the terms “high mileage” and “low mileage.” If a vehicle has far fewer kilometres than expected for its age, it is considered low mileage. On the other hand, if the distance is far greater than expected, the car is said to have high mileage.
This distinction matters for several reasons. A car with high mileage has been used more, meaning many of its mechanical parts have experienced more wear and tear. Over time, this use increases the likelihood of parts needing repair or replacement. Items such as the engine, suspension system, and brakes are especially affected by consistent, long-distance driving. Low-mileage cars are generally seen as more desirable because they appear to have more life left in them.
Fewer kilometres typically mean less wear and less need for immediate repairs, which can be an advantage to someone looking for reliability and lower maintenance costs. In addition, cars with lower mileage often attract better resale values, as buyers expect them to offer longer service before any major problems arise. However, mileage is not the only factor to consider.
A car that has low mileage but has been sitting idle for long periods may suffer from different issues such as rust, stale fluids, or battery problems. In contrast, a high-mileage car that has been well maintained and regularly serviced could still be in excellent shape. That is why service history, the quality of roads driven on, and how the car was handled by the previous owner also come into play when assessing a vehicle’s condition. In the Ugandan car market, many used cars are imported, especially from countries such as Japan.
These vehicles often arrive with mileage readings displayed in Japanese, and unfortunately, some unscrupulous dealers tamper with these figures to make cars appear less used than they are. This practice can mislead buyers into thinking they are getting a bargain when they are not. That is why it is important to request a detailed history of the vehicle or have it inspected by a trusted mechanic before committing to a purchase. Understanding what mileage represents helps car owners and buyers make more informed decisions.
While low mileage is often considered a plus, it is not a guarantee of quality. Likewise, high mileage should not always be a red flag, especially if the vehicle has been responsibly maintained. By looking at mileage in context and combining it with other important information, you can better evaluate a car’s true condition and make a smarter decision, whether you are buying, selling, or simply learning more about your current vehicle.
