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I am interested in a Jetta and am curious if 60k on an automatic 2001 model is considered high.

I will enjoy changing the brake pads and other maintenance, but not dumping a ton of money into it over the next year.

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I'd say that was pretty low mileage. I generally work on a ballpark figure of 10-12k/year, so I'd expect an average 10 year old car to have at least 100k on the clock.

The things to watch for a low mileage car is that maintenance may have been neglected, especially if it has been standing unused for any length of time. Check the maintenance records to make sure everything has been done, and check over the car to make sure its appearance and condition match the paperwork.

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There are some inherent risks to buying a car that age regardless of mileage. You should do a good bit of research on common problems and any recalls on the jetta before purchasing it. I'd also recommend checking out both the electrical system and for any rust on vehicle (both are common issues with Volkswagon vehicles). Regardless of mileage it's good practice to do an oil change as soon as possible after buying the car. I'd look at fluid in the cooling system as well, if it's not a nice healthy green, it's worth the effort to flush it now rather than waiting 'til your thermostat fails or you find the radiator stuck with rust and/or debris.

Overall, a car w/ low mileage regardless of age should be a good pick up if the price is right. The engines in those Jettas are pretty reliable so if you take care of it properly you should get quite a few years out of that car.

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