The seller's job is to sell the vehicle. Your job is to understand the vehicle, the numbers and the risk before you commit.
Mileage is only one part of condition
A well-maintained higher-mileage vehicle can be a better purchase than a neglected low-mileage vehicle. How the car was used, maintained, stored, repaired, and driven all matter.
Look at mileage relative to age
Mileage makes more sense when viewed against the vehicle's age and service history. Extremely low mileage can be attractive, but long periods of inactivity can also create maintenance issues.
Know the maintenance milestones
Timing belts where applicable, cooling-system service, transmission service, spark plugs, suspension wear, tires, brakes, hybrid batteries, and other model-specific items can become relevant at different mileage points.
Price the remaining life and upcoming cost
There is no universal mileage number at which a car becomes βtoo high.β The better question is whether the specific vehicle's condition, maintenance, expected repairs, and price make sense for how long you plan to own it.
Bottom line
Do not let urgency replace verification. Compare the market, understand the history, inspect when appropriate, review the complete transaction and decide your maximum before emotion takes over.