How Long Will a Car Typically Last?


August 13, 2021

Blue car on the road | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers

If you own a vehicle that has been with you for more than ten years, you may be curious about how long cars are meant to last. Automobiles do not have an expiration date, so when do you know that it's time to let one of them go? On average, a vehicle will last approximately 11-12 years on the road. However, with good maintenance and attention, your vehicle can last even longer. Believe it or not, the Guinness World Record for the highest vehicle mileage on a personal car has over 3,000,000 miles on it! So - anything can happen! 


The lifespan of any vehicle will also depend upon the make, model, year of your car, and personal driving habits. Newer automobiles are expected to last even longer than older cars. However, we will see whether that prediction holds later on.


Studies have shown that trucks and SUVs tend to have a longer lifespan than any other type. Regardless of what kind of vehicle you operate, understand the actions you could take as an owner to extend your vehicle's lifespan. 


Here are some of our suggestions that will help extend your vehicle's lifespan:

  • Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and recommendations
  • Use the best of the best fluids
  • Get fluids changes and flushes regularly
  • Have routine inspections performed to catch problems early on
  • Clean and wash your vehicle frequently


The internal systems that need the most maintenance include the engine and transmission. The majority of problems related to the engine or transmission can cost you thousands to fix, making you consider whether or not you should buy another vehicle.


At Woodie's Auto Service & Repair, our team will do whatever it takes to keep your vehicle running for years to come. For all your maintenance and repair needs, please give us a call or visit our shop today!

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