Top Used Cars Known for Longevity

When buying a used car, it’s important to know whether it will have long-term durability. Having a good idea about a used car’s reliability, mileage and durability will help you determine which car is the one for you. Here’s why a long lifespan matters, as well as a list of the best-used cars for longevity.

Why Longevity Matters When Buying a Used Car

The Cost-Saving Benefits of a Long-Lasting Vehicle

A long-lasting used car is the best financial choice. Here are a few reasons why:

• Longer lifespan: Cars that take longer to depreciate also hold their value better.
• Less repairs: Long-lasting cars are more durable and usually require less major repairs.
• Better fuel efficiency: Cars that last longer usually have good fuel efficiency.
• Fewer insurance claims: If your car is in good shape you are likely to have lower insurance premiums.

In the long term, a reliable used car will have huge benefits as they are more reliable, meaning you won’t need to replace it any time soon.

Key Factors That Contribute to a Car’s Longevity

It’s important to understand what contributes to a car’s longevity and there are several key factors:

• Maintenance history: If a car has a record of regular maintenance it suggests that it has had regular oil changes, brake servicing and fluid checks to keep it running well. When a car has been well maintained it is likely to last longer.
• Reliability ratings: People leave reviews and ratings for a reason. You should read up on other people’s experiences with a car to understand how it performs.
• Build quality: Cars built with strong metal alloys are likely to last longer than those made using less durable materials.
• Engineering: Strong suspension systems and protective coatings can ensure a car has improved longevity.
• Driving habits: If a car has been driven smoothly it will likely last longer than those subjected to rapid acceleration and hard braking which causes strain on the engine.
• Environmental factors: Cars driven in freezing cold or extreme heat are likely to degrade faster.

Top 10 Used Cars with the Longest Lifespans

Here’s our list of the most reliable used cars currently on the market. All of these cars can last over 200,000 miles and are the best-rated used cars for reliability and durability.

Toyota Tundra

• Average mileage lifespan: 200,000 - 300,000 miles
• Reliability rating: J.D. Power Consumer Rating of 81 out of 100 for the 2024 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: Strong and durable engine options, automatic transmission, durable suspension system, rust-resistant materials, and advanced cooling system.
• Estimated resale value: $45,000

Toyota Sequoia

• Average mileage lifespan: 200,000 - 250,000 miles
• Reliability rating: J.D. Power Consumer Rating of 80 out of 100 for the 2024 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: Heavy towing capacity up to 7,400 lbs, durable engine options, sturdy frame, automatic transmission, advanced cooling system, durable wishbone front suspension and multi-leaf rear suspension, and rust-resistant materials
• Estimated resale value: $40,000

Honda Ridgeline

• Average mileage lifespan: 200,000 - 250,000 miles
• Reliability rating: J.D. Power Consumer Rating of 82 out of 100 for the 2024 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: Unibody frame that enhances structural integrity, reliable engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive system, robust suspension system, waterproof in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate.
• Estimated resale value: $35,000

Chevrolet Suburban

• Average mileage lifespan: 200,000 - 300,000 miles
• Reliability rating: J.D. Power Consumer Rating of 81out of 100 for the 2024 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: Engine built for endurance, heavy-duty transmission, oil life monitoring, diagnostic systems and advanced onboard technology which helps you to spot potential issues before they become more serious problems.
• Estimated resale value: $35,000

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

• Average mileage lifespan: 200,000 - 300,000 miles
• Reliability rating: J.D. Power Consumer Rating of 82 out of 100 for the 2024 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: High-strength steel frame to add structural integrity, powerful and durable engine options, reinforced towing and payload capacity, heavy-duty suspension system with coil-over-shock front suspension, corrosion-resistant materials, heavy-duty brakes and diagnostic systems and maintenance monitoring tools.
• Estimated resale value: $31,000

Ford F-350 Super Duty

• Average mileage lifespan: 250,000 miles
• Reliability rating: Most dependable large heavy-duty pickup in the JD Power 2024 US Vehicle Dependability Study
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: Powerful engine options with the diesel engine noted for lasting over 300,000 miles, high-strength steel frame, robust TorqShift automatic transmission, rear leaf spring suspension, reinforced rear axle for strong towing and hauling capacity, galvanized steel and aluminum body panels to resist corrosion and a long-lasting fuel system.
• Estimated resale value: $45,000

Lexus GX

• Average mileage lifespan: 250,000 - 300,000 miles
• Reliability rating: J.D. Power Consumer Rating of 83 out of 100 for the 2023 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: Durable body-on-frame construction, 6-speed automatic transmission, advanced four-wheel drive system, multi-terrain select system, crawl control over challenging terrain, and Kinetic Dynamic Suspension system.
• Estimated resale value: $40,000

GMC Yukon XL

• Average mileage lifespan: 250,000 to 300,000 miles
• Reliability rating: 8.5 out of 10 by Car and Driver for the 2025 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: 10-speed automatic transmission, powerful engine options, body-on-frame construction, durable drivetrain, four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems, magnetic ride control suspension, electric brake-force distribution, long-lasting battery and electric system, and high-strength steel frame with advanced corrosion-resistant coatings.
• Estimated resale value: $40,000

Honda Civic

• Average mileage lifespan: 200,000 to 300,000 miles
• Reliability rating: J.D. Power Consumer Rating of 83 out of 100 for the 2024 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: Durable and efficient engines, Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system to optimize fuel efficiency, continuously variable transmission, high-strength steel construction, and McPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.
• Estimated resale value: $21,000

Subaru Legacy

• Average mileage lifespan: 200,000 miles
• Reliability rating: J.D. Power Consumer Rating of 82 out of 100 for the 2024 model
• Notable features that contribute to longevity: Symmetric all-wheel drive system, boxer engine design, durable Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, solid suspension system, and resilient exhaust system.
• Estimated resale value: $20,000

How to Maintain a Used Car for Maximum Longevity

Regular Maintenance Tips

As with any car, used cars need to be regularly maintained. The most dependable second-hand cars are well cared for. Here are our top tips for maintaining a long-lasting used car:

• Oil changes: Consistently change this as per your car’s manual as it can collect dirt and debris. Remember to also replace the filter when you make an oil change.
• Tires: Ensure tires are well inflated to ensure fuel efficiency and safety. It’s also important to have your tires aligned from time to time to improve handling.
• Air filters: These can become clogged over time, reducing air quality and efficiency. Replace these often to improve driving conditions.
• Fluid levels: Monitor these monthly and replace as recommended in your car’s owner manual. You should also check for any leaks under your car. These include coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid and windshield washer fluid.
• Battery: Check this periodically to check it’s in the healthy range of 12.5 or higher.
• Washing: Dirt can damage the undercarriage and paintwork, leading to further issues. A cleaner car can also increase its resale value.
• Warning signs: If your car is making strange noises or lights are flashing on the dashboard, this is a distress sign from your vehicle that it needs some help. Address these problems with a mechanic straight away to avoid serious problems in the future.

Best Driving Habits to Extend Car Life

In addition to regular maintenance, the way you drive can extend your car’s lifespan. Here’s a list of tips on how best to drive to maintain your used car’s longevity:

• Calm down: Aggressive driving with sudden starts, harsh braking and rapid acceleration puts strain on the engine, transmission and brakes. Smoother driving will help keep your car in good shape.
• Reduce the load: Extra weight can stress not just the tires, but also the engine and fuel efficiency. Keep your car load light most time to avoid straining your car.
• Don’t rev the engine: Higher Revolutions Per Minute (RPMs) reduce fuel efficiency and lead to engine wear. Shift to higher gears on highways to keep RPMs low.
• Avoid tailgating: Driving too close to other cars increases the likelihood of hard or sudden stops, wearing out the brakes more quickly.
• Temperature: If you notice the temperature rising, pull over and let your car cool down. Overheating can cause severe engine damage. Conversely, excessive use of air conditioning reduces fuel efficiency and puts additional stress on the engine.
• Stop idling: Long periods of idling lead to engine wear and unnecessary fuel consumption.
• Keep tires inflated: Underinflated tires can not just increase tire wear, but also cause handling issues and affect fuel economy.

By keeping good driving habits, you are likely to extend the lifespan of your used car.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a used car known for longevity can save you both money and time at the mechanic. If you’re looking for reliable high mileage cars, our list contains a good summary of the most dependable and affordable long-lasting used cars.