Which Vehicles Have The Longest Lifespan?

If you like to keep your vehicles a long time, you're likely concerned with vehicle longevity.  If this describes you, you'll want to check out the latest study from one of our favorite data sources, iSeeCars.  The automotive research firm and car search engine found that Toyota drivers, along with 3-row SUV and truck drivers, are getting the longest potential lifespan from their vehicles. (Also keep in mind that vehicles that durable and reliable cars also tend to hold their resale value better than the average car. )

In the study, iSeeCars says it analyzed over two million cars produced and sold for at least 10 of the past 20 model years, ranking each model by its highest mileage-achieving cars. All 20 models had at least 2.5 percent of the top-ranking 20 models clear 200,000 miles, and the top 1 percent of these vehicles delivered between 230,000 and 297,000 miles over the last two decades. For example, 1% of Toyota Sequoias on the road have at least 296,509 miles on the odometer.

Top 20 Greatest Potential Lifespan Cars

Toyota dominates the list with 10 of the top 20 models able to reach over 230,000 miles. The top 2 models with the longest lifespans are Toyota SUVs, with the Sequoia and Land Cruiser both enduring nearly 300,000 miles over the past 20 years.   Three hybrids, all of them Toyotas (Prius, Highlander, Camry), and two minivans (Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey) also make the top 20.

Toyota 3-Row SUVs lead the way

The top 20 models with the greatest potential lifespan include 10 Toyotas and three Hondas, along with two Chevrolets, two GMCs, two Fords, and one Nissan.

iSeeCars says while the top two models are both full-size Toyota SUVs, the newer, more refined Sequoia edges out the iconic and rugged Land Cruiser in potential lifespan. 

Trucks are the second-most common vehicles to achieve over 230,000 miles of potential lifespan. Japanese-built trucks take four of the five truck spots in the top 20. 

Cars make up three spots - all Toyota's.  Minivans are split between Toyota and Honda. 

Greatest Potential Lifespan SUVs

If you're focused on SUVs here's a breakdown of those. Large three-row SUVs offer the most utility and see the highest use. However, some two-rows rank as well.  iSeeCars says all of these models have seen high mileage use, clearing between 200,000 and 300,000 miles over the past 20 years. 

Greatest Potential Lifespan Pickup Trucks

Trucks often the harshest use. So iSeeCars says regular maintenance is a must if you want to extend a pickup's life expectancy.  If you're committed routine maintenance,  these workhorses can keep going long after the factory warranty expires. 

Greatest Potential Lifespan Hybrids

iSeeCars says most hybrids are relatively new to the market,  so they are at a disadvantage when you compare them to traditional models when considering how long they'll last.  Hybrid powertrains are also more complicated that traditional gas engines.   All that said, Prius owners, following proper car maintenance, are potentially clearing 250,000 miles. The Highlander and Camry hybrids are not far behind.   

Greatest Potential Lifespan Electric Cars

This is a shorter list as only two electric vehicles have been around for at least 10 of the past 20 years. Researchers say both show potential for long-term durability.

To see Minivan and Passenger Car/Hatchback rankings visit iSeeCars.com.

How to Extend a Car’s Lifespan?

iSeeCars says the average ages of cars keeps getting older. This is largely due to all the tech advances these days - which make vehicles increasingly durable. 

If you're a driver who wants to get every last mile out of your vehicle,  consider this.  While no one can guarantee the lifespan of a specific vehicle, iSeeCars researchers says the typical lifespan of a newer car at the top of these lists will almost certainly be longer than vehicles ranked lower.

Vehicle History Reports and Mechanic Inspections

If you’re considering buying a used vehicle, high mileage or not,  you’ll want to get a vehicle history report to check for past accidents and identify if any major repairs that may have already been performed like a timing belt replacement or transmission service.

CarPro Show Host Jerry Reynolds recommends CarPro Trusted Partner AutoCheck for vehicle history reports.

It's also a good idea to get a certified mechanic to inspect they vehicle before you buy it and look for things like underbody grime and corrosion. They an also check the status of the car battery, tires, and other parts that commonly wear out.

You will definitely need to discover the issue of a check engine light if it's on.  A mechanic can likely help you figure out a cause and tell you how much it will cost to fix it.  For more on check engine light causes click here.

Photo Credit:  Toyota.