Tips on Buying Cars: 2004 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER, 2004 toyota highlander, mileage cars

Question
There is a 2004 highlander limited at a local dealer.  The car is in beautiful shape, but has 98,000 miles.  The asking price is $15,900.  The price is fair, but is it worth it on a car with that many miles?

Thanks.  

Answer
Most people think high-mileage cars aren't worth looking at, but I disagree.  Think about it: how could they have put that many miles on a 2004?  There's only one way, by driving it on the interstate.  You can't put 98,000 miles on a vehicle in 3 years by driving it in the city.  So, they have to be highway miles, which are the easiest miles on a vehicle.  While you're on the interstate, you're not using the brakes, or opening and closing the doors, or shifting gears, etc...  The vehicle is just loafing along, and the only thing you're wearing out are the tires.  I'd have no personal problem buying this particular vehicle, but that's a decision only you can make.  I would recommend checking to see if the dealer can provide you with maintenance records for this Highlander; if it isn't well maintained, then it's not a deal at any price.