Despite many advanced car models hitting the market every year, used cars are still in demand. With so many used cars in the market, corporate professionals might wonder how long a used car could last. Although many factors affect the durability of a car, the answers to this question can guide people looking to acquire used vehicles.
Used car buyers usually check the manufacturing date and mileage before choosing a vehicle. But is this the right method to assess how long the car will be on the road after buying? The mileage and year of manufacture are crucial indicators, but car buyers need to learn how to assess other factors as well to determine how long the vehicle is likely to last.
The critical variables to consider include the make, model, maintenance history, current condition, car features, driving history, and engine type. This guide will look into the factors that affect car durability and highlight how long used cars typically last to help buyers make informed choices.
Current Mileage
Cars can reach 200,000 miles or more if the owner takes good care of the engine and goes for service on time. Modern car engines use advanced features and technologies that improve performance and extend useful life. So, a relatively new car will likely serve the owner for many years before requiring major replacements or repairs.
Since car dealerships understand the importance of looking at the mileage, this reputable used car dealership utah examines every vehicle to confirm the mileage. This helps potential buyers make objective decisions with the mileage in mind.
For instance, a vehicle that has clocked more than 100,000 miles might be in the middle of its useful life. So, a potential buyer can determine how long it will last based on the distance they cover yearly. If a driver drives about 12,000 miles annually, the car could last about eight to 10 years.
However, used car buyers must understand that a well-maintained car with a higher mileage might last longer than a low-mileage vehicle that is poorly maintained. Therefore, they should review other factors and scrutinize different car parts to determine if the vehicle is worth consideration.
Cars past 150, 000 miles’ mark might require too many costly repairs. This means the vehicle might serve the owner for at least five years, but the owner will spend money and time in an auto repair shop. So, it is best to involve a competent mechanic to examine cars with high mileage and provide an unbiased opinion before sealing the deal.
Vehicle Service History
Besides checking mileage, service history can help car buyers predict how long a used vehicle will last if they decide to buy. Most modern cars require oil changes two or three times every year. If the records indicate that the vehicle visits a reputable auto repair shop for service every year, the chances are high that it is well-maintained.
Timely oil changes and regular inspections help quickly catch and address mechanical issues. So, the service records can indicate how well the vehicle is taken care of. It might also indicate how long the car will run without a major breakdown, especially if the new owner maintains it properly.
A car with many previous owners might have a complicated service history, which explains why many used car buyers want to buy from the original owner. The general idea is that a car with only one previous owner will likely be reliable and serve the new owner longer.
Make and Model
Some car brands are known to last longer than others. So, used car buyers should consider the make and model of the car. The good news is that some third-party websites highlight the reliability ratings of different vehicles.
To assess how long a used vehicle will last, the buyer should check what other buyers say about the car. They must also review trends, manufacturer recalls, brand history, manufacturing defect recalls, and the highest mileage achieved so far.
Electric vehicles are relatively new, so they may not have a rich history. However, research indicates they can surpass 100,000 but might need battery replacement. So, a used electric vehicle with a new battery will likely have many more years ahead if other components are good enough.
Major Repairs and Maintenance
Maintenance practices are critical in keeping cars in shape. However, some parts will certainly fail at some point and need replacement. So, car buyers should find out if the used car they want to acquire has had a major repair or maintenance service.
If major parts such as brake disks, timing belts, transmission, and alternator have never been replaced, these parts might develop problems, affecting the longevity of the car. However, vehicles with major repairs involving replacing these parts will likely last longer without expensive repairs.
Transmissions can last about 150,000 miles while timing belts and alternators might need replacement after 60,000 to 100,000 miles. The brake disks can last up to 120,000 miles, while brake pads need replacement every 30,000 or more, depending on the make of the car. Replacing these parts on time can add a few more years to the vehicle.
Drive History
Rough roads with rocks and potholes are likely to damage a car. The climate of the area where the vehicle is driven regularly can determine how long it will last. Cars from areas near salty water bodies or where salts are poured on the road to control snow are likely to rust.
Salt, sand, snow, and rainwater tend to accelerate rust and wear and tear. So, used car buyers should avoid vehicles from areas with harsh weather because they might not last as long. They should also check if the car is usually driven regularly on rough roads and whether it has ever been involved in an accident.
Accidents and exposure to harsh weather weaken the body and reduce the useful life of a car, even if it is repaired. Therefore, a used car with a mileage of 100,000 or more, driven under harsh weather, or involved in a major accident might be on its last leg.
These factors can help a used car buyer select a vehicle that will last longer with regular repairs. However, a car with a mileage of 150,000 or more might be cheap to acquire, but the repair costs might be too high. So, car buyers should weigh their options and pick a reliable car after evaluating each of these crucial factors.