The average lifespan of a car in the United States is about 12 years, according to the Bureau of Transportation. If that sounds short, consider that car lifespans have risen from 8 to 12 years since 1995. There are many cars that last well beyond their original intended use.
Certain vehicles can live on for decades, blowing right past 100,000 miles and lasting for 200,000 miles or more. These cars are excellent candidates for car donation because they have plenty of life left and can be refurbished for local families in need of transportation. Here are some cars that are known to last for hundreds of thousands of miles:
Toyota Land Cruiser
The car that’s most likely to last beyond 200,000 miles isn’t a car at all. It’s an SUV that was discontinued in 2021 but is still going strong. The Toyota Land Cruiser was originally built to be a long-lasting military vehicle.
One study found that more than 18% of these SUVs were still on the road after 200,000 miles. For perspective, consider that one of the next cars that lasts the longest on the road, the Toyota Sequoia, has 14% on the road at that point, followed by just 6% of Chevrolet Suburbans.
Toyota Sequoia
Another Toyota SUV is among the most likely to last 200,000 miles-plus. Still in production since the year 2000, the Sequoia is the SUV version of Toyota’s Tundra pickup truck and is built with a solid frame and strong components for longevity.
Chevrolet Suburban
The Chevrolet Suburban has been around for more than 80 years, earning it the nickname, “The Oldest in the West.” Early model Suburbans looked a lot like station wagons, but modern versions are more like family SUVs. Today, it’s still somewhat common to see 80s and 90s-era Suburbans out on the roads.
Toyota Prius
Are you surprised to see the Prius on this list? The world’s first mass-produced gas/electric car is also one of its longest-lived. With proper maintenance, a Prius can last 250,000 miles or more. The Toyota Camry Hybrid, a similar vehicle, can last for about 230,000.
When you’re considering donating your high-mileage car, not all charities accept electric and hybrid vehicles, so check first to determine donation eligibility. Second Chances Garage takes all makes and models, including electrics and hybrids.
Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline is a bit of an oddball. Is it a truck? Is it an SUV? It has a crossover body style that combines platforms and components from several other types of vehicles. Most importantly, it can travel more than 248,000 miles in its lifetime.
Toyota Avalon
Widely considered one of the best sedans for winter driving in the Northeast, the Toyota Avalon is designed to incorporate the handling of a RAV4 SUV with the comforts of a family car. It can reach a mileage of 245,000 while still going strong.
Honda Odyssey
Few minivans have extremely long lifespans, usually because they’re designed more for family comfort than longevity. The Honda Odyssey is a notable exception and can last for 235,000 miles with the right automotive care.
Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition hits 200,000 and, in some cases, even makes it to 300,000 miles and beyond. The difference depends on how well the vehicle has been maintained. Some Expeditions experience engine and drivetrain issues around 100,000 to 150,000 miles. If you’re facing expensive Expedition repairs, consider donating your vehicle to Second Chances Garage to extend its usable lifetime.
Your Old Car Gets a New Chance at Life
When you’re wondering what to do with a high-mileage vehicle, don’t send it to the junkyard! Even if it’s been sitting untouched for years or you’re facing a huge repair bill, your car holds tremendous value for a local family in need.
Second Chances Garage repairs old and high-mileage vehicles for people who need transportation. We’re an IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organization, so you can take advantage of tax benefits from donating your vehicle.
You’re welcome to learn more about our easy three-step process for car donation. It’s the perfect way to do something charitable for your community while shedding the worries of a high-mileage vehicle.
