On average, Americans keep their cars for about eight years before selling or trading them in. However, the cost of both new and used cars has gone up alongside the cost of living. What if you want to keep your car around longer?
As tempting as it is to search for the average car lifespan, there are a lot of factors that can determine how long your car will last. Most cars can stick around for about 200,000 miles, but will yours?
Read on to learn what impacts the lifespan of the modern car and how to get the most out of yours.
Make and Model
First, let’s start with the type of car you have. In this arena, two things are going to make a big difference: your car’s construction and the availability of replacement parts.
Cars built by Toyota tend to top the list of longest-lasting cars because they’re durable and popular enough that getting replacement parts isn’t difficult. Cars with expensive or hard-to-find replacement parts, like Tesla’s, are going to have a lower lifespan on average.
Vehicle Maintenance
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that car maintenance is the key to getting the most out of your car, regardless of make and model. Why check fluid levels regularly? Why have your engine cleaned, your tires rotated, and rundown parts replaced?
The answer is that all of these things will ensure that your car runs efficiently despite its age. It can also ensure that your car is up to date with your state and city laws. Falling behind on your inspections can lead to serious fines and legal problems.
Believe it or not, even a little interior maintenance can have an impact. The occasional car detailing service can prevent your interior from wearing down.
Safe Driving
It doesn’t matter how old your car is if you drive recklessly. When you aren’t practicing safe driving, you’re running the risk of getting into an accident. That brand-new car could end up totaled after just a few dozen miles.
If your goal is to make it well beyond the eight-year average, you need to start driving with care. The best rule of thumb is to be predictable, not polite. In other words, follow the rules of the road so other drivers know what to expect from your driving behavior.
What if you get into an accident regardless of your safe driving? If the accident wasn’t your fault, you’re going to have a much easier time working with your insurance company to cover the damage.
Get More Out of Your Car Lifespan
These days, Americans are slowing down on buying new (or new-to-them) cars thanks to high costs. While it’s hard to nail down the average car lifespan that applies across the board, a great car can drive 200,000 to 300,000 miles. Use this guide to make it that far.
Looking to learn about the technology that’s helping cars last longer and drivers stay safer? Take a look around to discover the latest in automotive technology and more.
