Skip to main content

Buying a new car is getting expensive these days. So, automakers have made strides in improving their cars’ lifespan and reliability. Toyota is leading the way in keeping cars running well past their prime. According to iSeeCars, a study and analysis comprised over two million vehicles produced and sold for at least 10 of the 20 model years, ranking each model from longest-lasting to shortest. Toyota dominates the list, with most cars reaching over 230,000 miles. Here are the top three cars with the greatest potential lifespan, according to iSeeCars.

1. Toyota Avalon

Toyota has long been known for its reliable and long-lasting vehicles, and the Toyota Avalon is no different. According to CarEdge, it will cost you about $4,407 for maintenance and repairs for the first 10 years of ownership. That’s $2,689 less than the industry’s average sedan model. Best of all, the Toyota Avalon offers buyers a V6 or a hybrid powertrain. Both powertrains recorded well-behaved fuel economy ratings, with the hybrid model delivering best-in-class performance. While the large sedans are being phased out in favor of crossovers, Toyota has already confirmed that it will discontinue the Avalon after the 2022 model year. Still, that doesn’t mean it won’t offer buyers great value for a long time. According to iSeeCars, the Toyota Avalon has the most significant potential lifespan of any car at a whopping 245,710 miles.

2. Chevrolet Impala

A side profile of a red 2018 Chevrolet Chevy Imapala full-size sedan model parked on the top of a parking garage
2018 Chevy Impala | Chevrolet

Since its introduction in 1958, the Chevy Impala has been a popular choice for full-size American car buyers. The Impala also offers two powertrains – a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine which is standard, and a 3.6-liter V6 engine as an option. It is estimated to cost about $6,524 for maintenance and repairs over the first 10 years of ownership. With almost 70 years and 10 generations of production, it is not the first or the second time that the Impala has been discontinued. However, General Motors discontinued the Impala after sales dropped significantly in the past few years. During its last model year before discontinuation in 2020, the Impala was well-known as a value player among its rivals, with its starting MSRP undercutting all of its competitors. According to iSeeCars, although the Impala was phased out, it still has the second-longest lifespan potential of any car at 230,343 miles.

3 Honda Accord

The Honda Accord has been a popular mainstay in the mid-size sedan segment since its introduction more than four decades ago. With a body style that is more athletic and modern than traditional sedans, the Accord still packs a punch when it comes to performance and reliability. Year after year, the Accord has been awarded the 10 best awards by Car and Driver for its spacious interior, impeccable build quality, and road manners. It costs about $5,412 for maintenance and repairs over the first 10 years of ownership. The Honda Accord has also been praised by critics and consumers alike for its reliable performance and sharp styling. According to iSeeCars, the Honda Accord stands third on its list, with an impressive potential lifespan of 226,168 miles.

How to maximize the potential lifespan of your car

While most cars are designed to last about 15 years or about 200,000 miles, that doesn’t mean all cars will meet that benchmark. There are some critical steps you can take to maximize the potential lifespan of your vehicle. First, keep up with the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your car. This includes oil changes, tune-ups, tire rotations, and inspections from a qualified mechanic.

Also, check your car’s tire pressure regularly and keep them properly inflated, which will help fuel efficiency. Last but not least, try to park in a garage or covered area whenever possible to protect your vehicle from the elements. Following these tips and adhering to your car’s maintenance schedule will help ensure you get the most out of your vehicle and its potential lifespan. So, go ahead and take pride in your Toyota Avalon, Chevrolet Impala, or Honda Accord — these cars will offer great value for a long time to come.

Related 4 Reasons the 2023 Honda CR-V Offers More Value Than the 2023 Honda HR-V

4 Reasons the 2023 Honda CR-V Offers More Value Than the 2023 Honda HR-V