(Newswire.net — July 14, 2018) — As a general rule, today’s cars last longer than ever. There are a lot of variables in play here, including the type of car, how often you drive it, and how you take care of it, but the average modern vehicle can last 11.4 years or longer. And by some reports, it’s not difficult to get a car to last more than 200,000 miles (with the proper care, of course).
Many car owners choose to trade in their vehicles every few years for an upgrade, wanting the latest and greatest technology or a fresher model. But with the right care, it’s possible to keep your car running until it’s time to junk it.
Why Cars Last Longer
So why is it that modern vehicles last longer than their older counterparts?
There are three motivating factors:
- Higher-quality parts. Over the years, automakers have perfected the design, manufacture, and integration of almost every component in your vehicle. Your seatbelts are lighter and safer. Your engine runs smoother, quieter, and more efficiently. And all the tiny components throughout your vehicle are less prone to gradual wear and tear. With fewer individual parts to create a problem for the entire vehicle, the vehicle lasts longer.
- Better technology. We also see high-tech features emerging in newer models of cars. Sensors and integrated dashboards quickly let owners know if and when a problem arises, sometimes with directions on how to solve or mitigate the problem. Some tech, like stronger tires, prevent some problems, like flats, almost entirely.
- More knowledge of routine maintenance. Finally, after decades of relying on vehicles in our daily lives, the average mechanic’s and consumer’s knowledge of car health and maintenance has improved. In other words, we have better knowledge on how to take care of our cars. And because we take better care of our cars, they last much longer.
These factors are compounded by the threat of competition; there are dozens of top-tier automakers, all competing for consumers’ attention and loyalty. The threat of another brand poaching a loyal customer keeps automakers focused on longevity and quality.
Can Your Car Last 200,000 Miles?
So can your car last 200,000 miles? That partially depends on the make and model you’ve chosen, but according to Consumer Reports, there are a few simple steps you can take to maximize your vehicle’s lifespan:
- Follow manufacturer directions for routine maintenance. There are many individual tasks encapsulated by “routine maintenance.” For example, you’ll need to change the oil every few thousand miles, rotate your tires, and check your fluid levels. But the timeframes and manufacturer recommendations for these types of maintenance are going to vary based on your make and model. Make sure you look at your owner’s manual, and follow its advice as closely as possible. You may find that your vehicle needs maintenance more often or less often than other vehicles in its class, or that it requires a different type of product.
- Invest in your new parts. If and when it comes time to replace components in your vehicle, such as upgrading the tires or replacing the battery, don’t skimp. Bottom-shelf parts might be cheaper in the moment, but they tend to have a shorter lifespan, and may be more likely to cause other kinds of damage to your vehicle. For the most part, you get what you pay for, so it’s worth making the extra investment.
- Watch for early warning signs. Every vehicle, if owned and driven long enough, will eventually encounter a problem. Watching for these problems constantly, and taking action while they’re still in their infancy, can ensure you correct the issue before it becomes bigger—and more expensive. Investigate strange noises or response patterns within a few days, whenever possible.
- Keep things clean. Your car’s cleanliness may not seem like a top priority, but keeping the exterior clean can prevent the buildup of rust and prevent small dings and scratches. Keeping the interior clean can prevent debris and dirt from creating bigger problems, like holes and scuffs. Even a monthly cleaning can keep your car in top condition longer.
It’s likely that the quality of consumer vehicles is only going to increase in the future, but for now, you can maximize your current vehicle’s lifespan with a commitment to a handful of regular habits. Even if you don’t make it to 11.4 years or 200,000 miles, you’ll certainly get the most out of your investment.