High mileage cars - DIYCarExpert

Toyota dominates the list of 20 vehicles that can exceed 300,000 miles, with the 1983-1989 4Runner reaching an astonishing 1.4 million miles. Honda models like the Accord and CR-V also demonstrate exceptional longevity, while Lexus offers luxury options with surprising durability. Investing in a vehicle built to last offers significant financial benefits through reduced depreciation and lower lifetime ownership costs. When properly maintained, these durable vehicles can save owners thousands of dollars compared to replacing cars every few years. Based on documented owner reports and reliability data, here are the 20 vehicles most likely to surpass 300,000 miles. 20. Subaru Legacy (2009-2014): 287,000 Miles The fifth-generation Subaru Legacy combines sporty handling with impressive durability. Based on the Outback platform, this midsize sedan offers comfortable seating and reliable performance for long-term ownership. Subaru is one of the vehicles that will last over 250000 miles. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles Reported20232009 Legacy BaseReddit287,000 miles20242009 Legacy BaseCars.com189,209 miles The Legacy's boxer engine design, while unique, has proven remarkably durable when properly maintained. Regular oil changes every 5,000 miles and timing belt replacements at 105,000-mile intervals are critical for maximizing longevity. 19. GMC Yukon/Yukon XL (2007-2014): 302,000 Miles - Longest Lasting Car The third-generation GMC Yukon, especially models equipped with the 5.3L Vortec V8, demonstrates exceptional longevity. Consumer reports GMC Yukon is longest lasting cars available. This full-size SUV offers both passenger comfort and workhorse capability. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles Reported20232007 Yukon SLT 5.3Reddit302,000 miles20242007 Yukon SLTCars.com266,043 miles The 5.3L V8 engine is particularly noted for its durability, with many owners reporting trouble-free operation well beyond 250,000 miles with proper maintenance. The robust body-on-frame construction contributes significantly to the vehicle's longevity. 18. Lexus RX (2004-2009): 307,050 Miles - Most Reliable Long Lasting Vehicle The second-generation Lexus RX combines Toyota reliability with luxury features, which makes it one of the most reliable longest lasting vehicles in the market. Standard amenities include wood interior trim, power front seats, and dual-zone climate control, all built to last hundreds of thousands of miles. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedMarch 20232007 RX 350Owner review307,050 milesNovember 20132004 RX 330 3.3CarSurvey205,000 miles Despite its luxury status, the RX maintains reasonable maintenance costs, with many owners reporting that interior components and electronics hold up remarkably well even at high mileage. The 3.3L V6 engine is particularly noted for its durability. 17. Toyota Land Cruiser (1998-2007): 310,685 Miles - High Milage SUV The J100 Land Cruiser represents Toyota's commitment to extreme durability. With military heritage influencing its design, this SUV is engineered to last over 25 years under harsh conditions. It's an all-time favorite SUV that will last 250000 miles. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedOctober 20212001 Land Cruiser GLX 3.0 TDCarSurvey310,685 miles20241998 Land Cruiser BaseCars.com329,951 miles The Land Cruiser's exceptional durability stems from its overbuilt 4.7L V8 engine with forged internals, heavy-duty cooling system designed for extreme heat, robust full-time 4WD system with locking center differential, and body-on-frame construction with thick, corrosion-resistant steel. 16. Toyota Avalon (1995-1999): 320,000 Miles - Longest Lasting Sedan The first-generation Toyota Avalon has earned a reputation as one of the longest-lasting sedans available. Based on an extended Camry platform, it offers additional comfort while maintaining Toyota's legendary reliability. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedMarch 20201998 Avalon 3.0 V6CarSurvey320,000 milesFebruary 20111996 AvalonCarSurvey312,000 milesMay 20121998 Avalon 3.0CarSurvey302,000 miles One owner described their 320,000-mile 1998 Avalon as "One of the most reliable mechanical objects known to man," highlighting the model's exceptional durability. The Avalon's 3.0L V6 engine received several upgrades from the Camry version, including an improved intake design for smoother operation. 15. Toyota Sequoia (2001-2007): 350,000 Miles - Most Dependable High Milage Car The first-generation Sequoia combines ruggedness with spaciousness. Its 4.7L V8 engine (240 hp in 2001-2004 models) provides reliable power for hundreds of thousands of miles. It is considered one of the most dependable high milage cars. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles Reported20232003 Sequoia SR5 V8Owner report350,000 milesJanuary 20242005 SequoiaYouTube321,830 miles The Sequoia's truck-based platform provides a robust foundation for long-term durability. Critical maintenance includes timing belt replacement at 90,000 miles, lower ball joint inspection at 100,000 miles, and addressing exhaust manifold issues promptly. 14. Toyota Highlander (2001-2007): 388,125 Miles The first-generation Highlander offers exceptional reliability in a family-friendly package. Both V6 and four-cylinder engines have demonstrated impressive longevity. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedFebruary 2023First-gen HighlanderYouTube388,125 milesMay 20152003 Highlander Limited AWD 3.0L V6CarSurvey277,100 miles One owner described their Highlander as "Reliable to the point of loyalty, and boring," highlighting the model's exceptional dependability. The most reliable engine options include: EngineReliability RatingNotes2.4L 4-cylinder9/10Simplest design, lowest maintenance3.0L V68/10More power, slightly higher maintenance3.3L V6 (2004+)9/10Improved design, very reliable 13. Toyota Corolla (2007-2013): 415,519 Miles The tenth-generation Corolla continues Toyota's tradition of building economical cars with extraordinary durability. With annual maintenance costs averaging just $362, it's also economical to maintain. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles Reported20232013 Corolla CEReddit415,519 miles20242009 Corolla SCars.com276,077 miles The Corolla's combination of low purchase price, excellent fuel economy, and minimal maintenance requirements results in the lowest total cost of ownership among its competitors: Vehicle10-Year Ownership CostCost Per Mile (250k miles)Toyota Corolla$32,000$0.128Honda Civic$35,000$0.140Hyundai Elantra$33,500$0.134 12. Nissan Altima (1998-2001): 420,000 Miles The second-generation Altima has earned praise for its exceptional durability. Its straightforward design and robust construction contribute to its ability to exceed 400,000 miles. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedJune 20141999 Altima GXECarSurvey420,000 milesSeptember 20091998 Altima GXECarSurvey287,000 milesSeptember 20151999 AltimaCarSurvey256,290 miles One owner enthusiastically declared the Altima to be "hands down, one of the best cars ever built," after accumulating 420,000 miles. The Altima's simple design and accessible maintenance points make it an excellent choice for high-mileage operation. 11. Toyota RAV4 (2019-Present): 450,000 Miles The current-generation RAV4, including its hybrid variant, has already demonstrated impressive durability potential. Commercial users have pushed these vehicles to extreme mileages in short timeframes. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedDecember 20232020 RAV4 Hybrid XSEReddit450,000 miles Contrary to early concerns about hybrid longevity, the RAV4 Hybrid has proven exceptionally reliable: PowertrainReliability RatingNotes2.5L 4-cylinder9/10Simple, proven design2.5L Hybrid9/10Surprisingly durable, lower maintenance The electric motors in the hybrid system actually reduce stress on the gasoline engine and braking system, potentially contributing to even greater longevity than the conventional model. 10. Toyota Camry (1997-2001): 500,000 Miles The fourth-generation Camry offers exceptional reliability with both 4-cylinder and V6 engine options. Multiple examples have exceeded 400,000 miles with proper maintenance. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedJune 20221999 CamryOwner report500,000 miles2022Fourth-gen CamryOwner report402,000 milesJune 20131999 Camry LE 2.2CarSurvey250,000 miles The Camry's engine options both offer exceptional reliability: EngineReliability RatingMaintenance Considerations2.2L 4-cylinder10/10Timing chain (no replacement needed)3.0L V69/10Timing belt (replace at 90k miles) 9. Toyota Prius (2015-2022): 500,000 Miles The fourth-generation Prius has shattered misconceptions about hybrid durability. Both private owners and commercial fleets have reported exceptional longevity, even with the original hybrid battery. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedApril 20222017 PriusOwner report500,000 miles2023Fourth-gen PriusReddit350,000 miles Contrary to early concerns, Prius battery packs have demonstrated remarkable longevity: Average battery life exceeds 200,000 miles Many original batteries still functional beyond 300,000 miles Replacement costs have decreased significantly (now often under $2,000) Commercial taxi fleets worldwide have embraced the Prius for its combination of fuel efficiency and reliability under extreme conditions, with New York City taxi Prius models averaging 300,000+ miles before retirement. 8. Lexus ES (2002-2006): 596,000 Miles The fourth-generation Lexus ES combines Toyota reliability with luxury features. With annual maintenance costs averaging $468, it's also relatively economical to maintain for a luxury vehicle. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedFebruary 2019Fourth-gen ES 300Owner report596,000 miles20242003 ES 300Cars.com317,594 miles The ES's relationship to the Toyota Camry platform contributes significantly to its exceptional durability, while offering a more refined driving experience and premium features that hold up well over time. 7. Lexus CT 200h (2011-2017): 600,000 Miles The Lexus CT 200h leverages Toyota Prius technology with luxury refinements. Its 1.8L hybrid powertrain (134 hp combined) has proven exceptionally durable, especially in commercial use. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedOctober 2020CT 200hClubLexus600,000 milesFebruary 20172012 CT 200h 1.8CarSurvey187,000 miles One Redditor went as far as calling the CT 200h "the most reliable Lexus car," which is quite a statement considering the renowned reliability of Lexus vehicles. The model combines the proven Prius powertrain with luxury amenities that stand the test of time. 6. Honda Civic (2016-2021): 773,493 Miles The tenth-generation Civic combines sporty handling with Honda's reputation for durability. Commercial users have pushed these vehicles to extreme mileages in remarkably short timeframes. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedDecember 20232017 CivicYouTube773,493 miles20242018 Civic LXCars.com272,038 miles The most reliable Civic trim levels and engines include: Trim/EngineReliability RatingNotesLX (2.0L NA)9/10Simplest design, lowest maintenanceEX (1.5L Turbo)8/10More power, slightly higher maintenanceSi (1.5L Turbo)7/10Performance-tuned, requires attentive maintenance While all Civic variants have shown good reliability, the naturally-aspirated 2.0L engine in the LX trim has the edge for those prioritizing maximum longevity. 5. Honda CR-V (2005-2007): 998,275 Miles The third-generation CR-V offers exceptional reliability with reasonable maintenance costs (averaging $407 annually). Its 2.4L engine (166 hp) provides adequate power with excellent fuel economy. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles Reported20192007 CR-VOwner report998,275 milesFebruary 20242005 CR-VReddit405,000 miles Key factors contributing to the CR-V's exceptional longevity include: Robust K24 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with timing chain (no belt replacement needed) Simple, proven all-wheel-drive system with minimal complexity High-quality suspension components that withstand heavy use Corrosion-resistant body panels and frame construction Practical design allowing easy access for maintenance 4. Hyundai Elantra (2011-2016): 1,000,000 Miles The fifth-generation Elantra demonstrates Hyundai's commitment to reliability. One documented example reached 1 million miles in just five years of commercial use, showcasing the model's exceptional durability. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedDecember 20182013 ElantraHyundai video1,000,000 miles-2013 ElantraOwner report255,000 miles According to CarEdge, the chances of an Elantra needing significant repairs in its first 10 years of service is low, at just 17.73 percent. This remarkable reliability represents Hyundai's transformation from budget brand to reliability leader. 3. Ford F-150 (2009-2014): 1,000,000 Miles The twelfth-generation F-150 combines workhorse capability with impressive longevity. Multiple examples have exceeded 250,000 miles, with one documented case reaching 1 million miles. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedJanuary 20232012 F-150YouTube1,000,000 milesMarch 20242012 F-150 XLT SuperCrew 5.0CarSurvey270,000 milesJanuary 20182010 F-150 XL 4.6CarSurvey246,000 miles The F-150's exceptional durability is particularly impressive given its workhorse status. Many owners report achieving extreme mileage while using their trucks for towing, hauling, and other demanding tasks. 2. Honda Accord (1990-1993): 1,003,440 Miles The fourth-generation Accord set the standard for sedan longevity. One documented example reached over 1 million miles with its original engine and transmission. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedApril 20231990 AccordYouTube1,003,440 milesJuly 20131990 Accord LX 2.2CarSurvey308,000 milesFebruary 20141991 Accord EXCarSurvey290,000 miles Owner Joe LoCicero's meticulous maintenance regimen included: Oil changes every 5,000 miles using high-quality synthetic oil Transmission fluid changes every 50,000 miles Coolant flushes every 30,000 miles Spark plug replacement every 30,000 miles Timing belt replacement every 100,000 miles This fastidious approach, combined with Honda's robust engineering, allowed the vehicle to surpass the million-mile mark with its original engine and transmission. 1. Toyota 4Runner (1983-1989): 1,442,300 Miles The first-generation 4Runner holds the record for highest documented mileage. Its simple, rugged design and overbuilt components contribute to its exceptional durability. Owner Report DateModelSourceMiles ReportedNovember 20111988 4Runner SR5 2.4 22R-ECarSurvey1,442,300 milesMay 20091987 4Runner DX 22RECarSurvey520,000 milesAugust 20041988 4Runner SR5 2.2CarSurvey450,000 miles One owner enthusiastically recommended the first-generation 4Runner, saying "It looks great, extremely reliable and economical - buy one!" This sentiment is echoed throughout various owner reviews, highlighting the model's exceptional durability. What Makes These Vehicles Last So Long? Several key engineering principles contribute to vehicle longevity: FactorDescriptionExampleDrivetrain SimplicityFewer components mean fewer potential failure pointsToyota 4Runner's straightforward 4-cylinder engineOverbuilt ComponentsParts designed to withstand more stress than typically encounteredLand Cruiser's heavy-duty cooling systemConservative TuningEngines tuned for reliability rather than maximum performanceToyota's approach to power ratingsQuality MaterialsHigher-grade metals and plastics in critical componentsHonda's use of forged engine internalsProven TechnologyUsing well-tested designs rather than cutting-edge featuresToyota's gradual implementation of new technologies Maintenance Practices That Extend Vehicle Life Proper maintenance is crucial for achieving extreme mileage: Maintenance PracticeRecommended IntervalBenefitOil Changes5,000-7,500 milesPrevents engine wear and contaminationTransmission Fluid30,000-60,000 milesExtends transmission lifeTiming Belt/Chain90,000-100,000 milesPrevents catastrophic engine failureCoolant Replacement60,000-100,000 milesPrevents corrosion and overheatingSuspension Inspection50,000 milesIdentifies wear before failure High Milage Car Brand Reliability Comparison BrandModels in Top 20Highest Reported MileageToyota91,442,300 miles (4Runner)Honda31,003,440 miles (Accord)Lexus3600,000 miles (CT 200h)Ford11,000,000 miles (F-150)Hyundai11,000,000 miles (Elantra)GMC1302,000 miles (Yukon)Subaru1287,000 miles (Legacy)Nissan1420,000 miles (Altima) Financial Benefits of High-Mileage Vehicles Choosing vehicles built to last offers significant financial advantages: Cost Factor3 Cars Over 10 Years1 Car for 10 YearsInitial Purchase$75,000 ($25,000 × 3)$25,000Depreciation$45,000$15,000Registration/Taxes$6,000$2,000Insurance$18,000$12,000Maintenance$12,000$8,000Total Cost$156,000$62,000Cost Per Mile (150,000)$1.04/mile$0.41/mile Common High-Mileage Issues and Prevention Even the most reliable vehicles have potential weak points: VehicleCommon IssuePreventionToyota Land CruiserLower ball joint wearInspect at 100,000 miles, replace proactivelyToyota 4RunnerTiming belt failureReplace every 90,000 miles (V6 models)Honda AccordTransmission failureChange fluid every 30,000 milesFord F-150Spark plug ejection (5.4L)Use proper torque specs, consider preventive repairToyota CamryValve cover gasket leaksInspect at 120,000 milesLexus ESPower steering pump failureFlush fluid every 60,000 milesSubaru LegacyHead gasket failureUse Subaru coolant, monitor temperaturesGMC YukonFuel pump failureReplace fuel filter every 30,000 miles How To Buy A Used High-Mileage Vehicle When shopping for a high-mileage vehicle, consider these factors: Inspection PointWhat To Look ForRed FlagService RecordsComplete history with regular maintenanceMissing oil change recordsEngineSmooth idle, no unusual noisesBlue smoke from exhaustTransmissionSmooth shifts, no slippingDelayed engagement or harsh shiftsCooling SystemNo leaks, clean coolantMilky oil (head gasket failure)SuspensionNo excessive bouncing or noiseUneven tire wearBody/FrameMinimal rust, straight panelsRust perforation or accident damageElectronicsAll systems functioning properlyWarning lights on dashboardExhaustNo excessive smoke or noiseRattling catalytic converterFluidsClean, proper levels, no contaminationDark transmission fluid with burnt smellTest DriveSmooth acceleration, braking, handlingVibrations, pulling to one side The Million-Mile Club: Lessons from Extreme Cases Vehicles that have surpassed 1,000,000 miles offer valuable insights into maximizing longevity: VehicleOwnerKey Maintenance PracticesCurrent Status1988 Toyota 4RunnerMike MorrisOil changes every 3,000 miles, transmission fluid every 30,000Still running at 1,442,300 miles1990 Honda AccordJoe LoCiceroOil changes every 5,000 miles, timing belt every 100,000Retired at 1,003,440 miles2012 Ford F-150Victor SheppardDealer service only, oil changes every 5,000 milesTraded to Ford at 1,000,000 miles2013 Hyundai ElantraFarrah HainesOil changes every 3,000 miles, commercial driverStill in service at 1,000,000+ miles These extreme examples share common maintenance approaches: More frequent fluid changes than manufacturer recommendations Immediate attention to minor issues before they escalate Consistent driving patterns (primarily highway miles) Original engines and transmissions maintained rather than replaced Highway vs. City Driving: Impact on Vehicle Longevity Driving conditions significantly affect a vehicle's potential lifespan: Driving TypeImpact on LongevityReasonHighwayPositiveLess wear from fewer heat cycles, consistent operating temperatureCityNegativeMore wear from frequent stops/starts, more heat cyclesShort TripsVery NegativeEngine never reaches optimal temperature, moisture accumulationLong-DistanceVery PositiveOptimal operating temperature, fewer cold starts Data from fleet vehicles shows that those driven primarily on highways typically last 20-30% longer than identical models used primarily for short urban trips. Diesel vs. Gasoline for Longevity While diesel engines have traditionally been associated with extreme longevity, modern emissions equipment has complicated this advantage: Engine TypeProsConsBest ApplicationsDieselLower RPM operation, stronger internal componentsComplex emissions systems, higher repair costsHeavy-duty trucks, long-distance highway drivingGasolineSimpler emissions systems, lower maintenance costsHigher RPM operation, more heatPassenger cars, mixed driving conditionsHybridReduced engine stress, regenerative brakingBattery replacement costs, complex electronicsUrban driving, stop-and-go traffic Modern gasoline engines with proper maintenance can now routinely achieve 300,000+ miles, narrowing the traditional longevity gap with diesel engines. The Future of Vehicle Longevity: Modern Vehicles Recent technological advances present both opportunities and challenges for vehicle longevity: TechnologyPotential Impact on LongevityConsiderationDirect InjectionNegative (carbon buildup)May require intake cleaning serviceTurbochargingNegative (heat, complexity)More critical oil change adherenceCVT TransmissionsNegative (durability concerns)Strict fluid change intervalsHybrid SystemsPositive (reduced engine stress)Battery replacement eventually neededAdvanced ElectronicsNegative (repair complexity)Specialized diagnostic equipment requiredAluminum ConstructionMixed (lighter but more damage-prone)More expensive collision repair The most reliable modern vehicles continue to balance proven technology with careful implementation of new features, prioritizing durability over cutting-edge performance. For those seeking maximum longevity in a new vehicle purchase, models that maintain simpler engineering approaches while incorporating selective technological improvements offer the best long-term value. Toyota and Honda continue to lead in this balanced approach, with Mazda showing significant improvements in recent reliability rankings. Choose a vehicle with documented maintenance history and invest in a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. With proper care, these high-mileage champions can provide reliable transportation for many years to come.