### How Long Does the Average Vehicle Last?

In the United States, the average age of a car is more than 12 years or nearly 200,000 miles now. If you want to ensure that your vehicle lasts as long as possible, it is best to avoid the brands known for building unreliable vehicles, whether you are buying a used car or a newer car. 

It can be challenging to determine how long the average vehicle lasts accurately. Because so many individual factors affect longevity, the length of time a particular vehicle will be viable and reliable will change from car to car. 

Newer versions of famously-reliable models like the Toyota Camry and Corolla, the Honda Civic, and the Ford Ranger will almost always give you a longer average lifespan. 

Sports cars like the Chevy Corvette and higher-end luxury cars made by BMW, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz are not known for their longevity but also are driven less often. Mechanically and electrically simple, economical vehicles will have better reliability and last much longer. With fewer mechanical components and a smaller likelihood of expensive repairs, you can keep a simple car running and count on it to give you many years of good service.  

### What Vehicles Last the Longest in 2023?

If you are considering purchasing a new car to replace your current one, knowing which vehicles are the best on the market is essential. 

__According to trusted publications like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, the most reliable cars in 2023 include:__ 

- [Toyota Corolla](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-corolla)
- [Kia Forte](https://www.autolist.com/kia-forte)
- [Honda Civic](https://www.autolist.com/honda-civic)
- [2023 Audi A5](https://www.autolist.com/audi-a5#year_min=2023&year_max=2023)
- [2023 Toyota Prius](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-prius#year_min=2023&year_max=2023)
- [2023 Lexus IS](https://www.autolist.com/lexus-is+350#year_min=2023&year_max=2023)
- [Hyundai Sonata](https://www.autolist.com/hyundai-sonata)
- [2023 Nissan Altima](https://www.autolist.com/nissan-altima#year_min=2023&year_max=2023)
- [2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata](https://www.autolist.com/mazda-mx+5+miata#year_min=2023&year_max=2023)
- [2023 Infiniti Q50](https://www.autolist.com/infiniti-q50#year_min=2023&year_max=2023)

When you buy a new car, you probably expect it to last you as long as possible. However, even the most well-made vehicle will reach the end of its life sooner or later. Knowing how long you should keep a car will give you the tools you need to make the right decision when the time comes. That way, you can make sure that you are safe on the road and that you don't end up spending more money than you should to keep your vehicle running.

Car owners usually know that the longevity of a vehicle is one of the most important things to look for. Whether you depend on your car to get to and from work or use it occasionally for trips, it is essential to last as long as possible. 

However, sooner or later, a time will come when you have to decide whether to keep your old car or get a new one. Knowing how long you should generally hold onto a vehicle will help you make the right decision. 

Many factors determine how long a vehicle will last and how long it will be reliable. Every car is different, and your driving style and circumstances will play a big part in a car's longevity. And with car prices today, it’s worth considering taking steps to make sure the vehicle lasts a long time.

And some sure signs will tell you when the time has come to replace your current vehicle. Understanding what they are and what contributes to a car's lifespan can help you figure out when to take a trip to the dealership for a new car. 

{ad type="m-box-1"}

### What Factors Determine How Long a Vehicle Will Last?

![2023-toyota-corolla-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2H7DUKfmLDPAd2Cftawg83/d7f990ad05eab0bed8e3579db02cd158/2023-toyota-corolla-ext.jpg)

If you are in the car buying process or want to know how long you can expect your current car to last, it is important to know what factors determine a vehicle’s longevity. If you are trying to stretch the miles on the odometer, you will need to understand how some older cars manage to stay on the road. 

Every individual vehicle has its own set of needs and car maintenance requirements that will determine how long it is going to last. Knowing what these are can give you a good idea of what to expect from your car ownership experience. 

#### Make and Model 

![2023-kia-forte-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2vg9oukSNfC56nHeNAySWg/98e75801654602d5f6ec91b06798e158/2023-kia-forte-ext.jpg)

The make and model of a particular car will play a big part in how long it will last. Certain vehicles by certain automakers are known for their dependability and their longevity. The make and model of your car will give you a decent idea of how long you can expect it to last. 

In 2023, the Ford F-350 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, and Toyota Tundra are some of the vehicles with the best reputation for longevity. These vehicles are all large pickup trucks that are designed to take use and abuse over the years. That often translates into longer life and better service, even if they are used in regular daily driving. 

#### Body Style 

![2023-honda-civic-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/yt0oOu1XV2LMOhgC5iNWk/66193bc2d6202878cf3caa31f794e300/2023-honda-civic-ext.jpg)

The body style of a vehicle will also contribute heavily to whether or not it lasts you a long time. Automobiles with smaller, lighter bodies tend to last longer since the frame has less strain and less power is required to move it along. 

However, if a vehicle, such as a super-duty pickup truck, is specifically designed to carry a lot of weight, a heavier body will be more beneficial to its life. Ensuring that a new or used vehicle you are considering purchasing is well-matched with its engine and body style will go a long way toward keeping it running longer. 

#### Regular Maintenance Costs

![2023-audi-a5-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5NUzFdAwsxJTSrkhEaVMAf/84498e9516a7891b6f0381835f13c8b5/2023-audi-a5-ext.jpg)

One of the main contributing factors to a vehicle's length of life is the regularity of maintenance. Regular maintenance like oil changes, alignments, and brake service will keep a car's value up and ensure it lasts for as long as possible. 

If you own a newer model of a modern vehicle, you may need to stay on top of maintenance to keep your factory warranty intact. That allows you to take advantage of the protection plan that comes with your car and keeps it running much longer. It also helps stave off large repair bills since your mechanic can identify more minor issues before they become big, expensive problems. 

{ad type="m-box-2"}
{ad type="dt-wide-breaker"}

#### Safety Features 

![2023-toyota-prius-styling-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/1wgJXYcEePEycbZBL3ol7c/1e333fa1e2dc36326cb48b4b9ed0ee6c/2023-toyota-prius-styling-image.jpg)

Checking that the vehicle has the latest safety equipment is incredibly important, and as your vehicle ages, it usually comes up short compared to other cars out on the road. 

While your car almost certainly has airbags and antilock brakes, there have been significant improvements to the vehicle safety landscape. Things like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring can offer you peace of mind on the road that an older vehicle can't. If you feel you are missing out on safety and a feeling of security, this can significantly affect how long you want to keep your current car. 

#### Your Financial Situation

![2023-lexus-is-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5OeCN0udP4Fm2BKT2nxZZ6/966169187e1234fdc3a94fbe79690b46/2023-lexus-is-ext.jpg)

Your financial situation is critical when deciding whether to replace your vehicle. It is important to remember that the true cost of ownership for any car will be much more than just the sticker price. 

For example, when you purchase a new vehicle, not only will you have to pay a down payment and a car payment for your car loan, but you will also have to pay more for auto insurance. Car insurance costs are determined by how much a particular vehicle will cost to replace. When you buy a new one, you can expect to pay quite a bit more in monthly insurance payments, which may mean that you should wait before you get rid of your current vehicle. 

### When to Replace a Vehicle 

![2023-hyundai-sonata-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6UQQZ1lDem0oES7EyDbAP4/adacc38a494b6dd8ff603f857bc99b3b/2023-hyundai-sonata-ext.jpg)

Because the factors that lead to a car no longer being viable depend on individual circumstances, it is crucial to know when the time has come to replace your vehicle. While every car is different, there are a few surefire signs that it has reached the end of its life. 

When a car is no longer giving you the best possible service and confidence behind the wheel, it is a good idea to start thinking about getting a new one. Knowing some of these signs will help you make the right decision. 

#### Parts Are Getting Harder to Find 

![2023-nissan-altima-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5tqA8lTHoT2oiPv33luYjo/82ea948b35d314e181fc726bbd107c7e/2023-nissan-altima-ext.jpg)

Sooner or later, parts for your vehicle will become more and more scarce. While this may take a while, especially if you have a relatively modern car or a common model such as a Nissan Altima or Volvo station wagon, a time will come when replacing components will be incredibly expensive. When this happens, it may be cheaper in the long run for you to buy a newer vehicle. New cars tend to be less costly to repair, and parts are much easier to find. 

#### Total Cost of Ownership is Too High 

![2023-mazda-mx5-miata-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5TDJ6NC0zt0yrFEqGgNMbc/27aaf1126c9d5e09ddd3c22799353caf/2023-mazda-mx5-miata-ext.jpg)

Older cars will almost always get more expensive to own as time goes on. For example, as your vehicle ages, its fuel economy will worsen, which can be incredibly expensive. It's especially true at a time when fuel prices are constantly in flux and get more and more unpredictable. 

Older cars also have a much higher likelihood of developing severe issues. Problems with components like the engine, transmission, or drive axle can be very cost-prohibitive. In many cases, purchasing a new, more reliable car can cost less. 

#### Safety is an Issue 

![2023-infiniti-qx50-ext](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/779H7yWs3hqFRg7hPQr27y/0962e307ddc6092cce755d0aac299c25/2023-infiniti-qx50-ext.jpg)

Perhaps the most important thing to look out for if you are wondering whether or not to replace your vehicle, is safety. You should always feel safe in your car, and when that becomes an issue, it is time to get rid of it. If the vehicle feels unstable on the road or takes a long time to stop, even with new brake pads and serviced brakes, it is a good idea to look into moving on. Your safety should be your number one concern no matter what, and ensuring you have a safe car to drive is your responsibility to both yourself and the other drivers on the road.

Not sure if it's time to part with your vehicle just yet? Find out what factors should go into determining how long to keep your car and when it's time to let it go.

How Long Should I Keep My Car?

Related

Car Title Signed But Never Transferred - What to Do

What Is Flipping Cars and How Do You Flip Cars?

What's The Best Time to Sell My Car?