I'm looking into buying a used car and after driving a few I really like the feel of a Mazda. There is a 2021 CX-5 Touring AWD for sale near me with 86,000 miles, which is a lot of miles per year, but the previous owner (1 owner) obviously took good care of the car and drove lots of highway miles. The asking price is $18,500, is it worth it? Is it dumb to buy a car for that kind of money with such high mileage? Any input would be greatly appreciated.
You can get an idea of the car's market value on a site like kbb.com (Kelley Blue Book). The prices listed tend to be inflated but will give you an idea if what you're looking at is outrageously out in the ozone. Bear in mind if shopping at dealers that dealer asking prices are always the highest you'll find and many will tend to pile on a lot of useless and very expensive extras onto an already inflated price.
It is vitally important that you have a good mechanic give any used car you are considering a thorough examination before purchase. (After purchase is too late.)
Echoing the other response, get the vehicle inspected by a good mechanic before proceeding any further.
Do note that the 2021-2022 model years for the CX-5 and a few other Mazdas were part of a class action suit for excessive engine oil consumption due to alleged issues with valve stem seals. I'd speak with the mechanic about that as well.
All that said, if everything checks out, it could be a good buy. I have a 2016 CX-5 with 120k+ miles, and it runs like new. Still a zippy little engine with good fuel economy. No squeaks or rattles in the body. No electrical issues at all. If I let it go a full 7,500 miles between oil changes (full synthetic) I usually use about a 1/3 to 1/2 a quart of oil. That's it.
I honestly think I could get another 120K on the odometer without trouble as long as I keep up with maintenance.
