How Long Will a Car Typically Last?


August 13, 2021

Blue car on the road | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers

If you own a vehicle that has been with you for more than ten years, you may be curious about how long cars are meant to last. Automobiles do not have an expiration date, so when do you know that it's time to let one of them go? On average, a vehicle will last approximately 11-12 years on the road. However, with good maintenance and attention, your vehicle can last even longer. Believe it or not, the Guinness World Record for the highest vehicle mileage on a personal car has over 3,000,000 miles on it! So - anything can happen! 


The lifespan of any vehicle will also depend upon the make, model, year of your car, and personal driving habits. Newer automobiles are expected to last even longer than older cars. However, we will see whether that prediction holds later on.


Studies have shown that trucks and SUVs tend to have a longer lifespan than any other type. Regardless of what kind of vehicle you operate, understand the actions you could take as an owner to extend your vehicle's lifespan. 


Here are some of our suggestions that will help extend your vehicle's lifespan:

  • Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and recommendations
  • Use the best of the best fluids
  • Get fluids changes and flushes regularly
  • Have routine inspections performed to catch problems early on
  • Clean and wash your vehicle frequently


The internal systems that need the most maintenance include the engine and transmission. The majority of problems related to the engine or transmission can cost you thousands to fix, making you consider whether or not you should buy another vehicle.


At Woodie's Auto Service & Repair, our team will do whatever it takes to keep your vehicle running for years to come. For all your maintenance and repair needs, please give us a call or visit our shop today!

Tires | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
August 29, 2025
Woodie’s Auto Service & Repair Centers across NC and SC explain why Michelin tires are known for their exceptional longevity.
Steering wheel | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
July 25, 2025
Woodie’s Auto Service & Repair Centers in NC and SC explains what causes a stiff steering wheel and how to get it fixed.
Tires | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
June 27, 2025
Woodie’s Auto Service & Repair Centers, with 17 locations in NC and SC, explains where your old tires go and how they’re responsibly recycled.
Car battery | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
May 30, 2025
Woodie’s Auto Service & Repair Centers, with 17 locations across North Carolina and South Carolina, explains why your battery might be draining quickly and how to fix it
Tire pressure | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
April 25, 2025
Woodie’s Auto Service & Repair Centers in NC and SC explain how tire pressure changes with temperature and altitude. Learn how to monitor and adjust properly.
Check engine light | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
March 28, 2025
Woodie’s Auto Service & Repair Centers in North Carolina and South Carolina explain how long you can drive with your check engine light on. Know when to take action.
Cold start sign on a window | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
February 28, 2025
Woodie’s Auto Service & Repair Centers in North Carolina and South Carolina explain why your car takes longer to start in the morning. Learn common causes and fixes.
Car's Differential | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
January 31, 2025
Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers in North Carolina and South Carolina explains the function of a car's differential. Learn its importance for vehicle performance.
Oil change | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
December 20, 2024
Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers provide a comprehensive guide on oil changes. Learn the essentials for maintaining your vehicle's engine health.
Tire | Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers
November 29, 2024
Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers explains how a tire can lose air without having a hole. Learn about common causes and preventive measures.
Show More