Is it okay to buy an older used car?

Yes, age alone isn't a reason to avoid a car — condition and maintenance history matter far more than the age on the registration document. A well-maintained 7-10 year old car with full service history can be a better buy than a neglected 3-year-old one.

That said, older cars deserve extra attention in a few areas:

• Rust and corrosion, particularly on the sills, wheel arches, and underside
• Timing belt/chain history — most manufacturers recommend replacement somewhere between 60,000-100,000 miles or every 5-10 years, whichever comes first, though the exact interval varies by make and model. If the service history doesn't show a replacement within that range, budget for one, or ask a mechanic to check its condition before you buy
• Availability of parts — some older or less common models can be more expensive to maintain
• Full service history, which matters more the older the car gets, since it's your main evidence of how well it's been looked after

Run a history check regardless of age — write-off and finance issues aren't limited to newer cars.