These Cars and Trucks Are the Most Likely to Surpass 250,000 Miles

Looking for a new/used car? As of August 2024, CarEdge reports that certain car segments are experiencing notable price declines or holding steady, making now a great time to shop for a vehicle. 

In North America, where long commutes, diverse climates, and vast highways are the norm, picking a car that will last is essential. The average car lifespan is around 8 years, but some vehicles can potentially run for as long as 12.6 years, according to a study by S&P Global Mobility. So, which vehicles have the engineering, reliability, and build quality to go the distance? (Spoiler alert: It’s likely to be a Toyota). 

Whether you're looking for a compact car, a luxury SUV, or something sporty, the following cars and trucks have proven they can surpass the 250,000-mile mark, offering peace of mind for the long haul.

Starting Price: ~$38,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 36.6%

Topping the iSeeCars 2024 Study of the Top 30 Vehicles Most Likely to Last 250,000+ Miles is the Toyota Tundra. Known for its rugged reliability and exceptional performance, the Tundra owes much of its durability to its robust 5.7-liter V8 engine and strong low-end torque, making towing and off-road driving more manageable. As one of the longest-lasting trucks on the market, the Tundra excels in both off-road performance and daily reliability. There’s even one owner who has clocked 879,000 miles in his Tundra.

Starting Price: ~$25,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 26.3%

Reddit users frequently praise the Honda Civic as a reliable, fuel-efficient compact car that can easily last beyond 250,000 miles. With relatively low maintenance costs and a strong track record for dependability, the Civic is one of the best "starter cars." Properly maintained, it handles daily commutes and long road trips with ease. For used car buyers, Drive Appeal singles out 2012-2015 and 2020-2021 models as the most reliable options.

Starting Price: ~$28,000

Chance of Lasting  250,000+ Miles: 26.7%

Frequently hailed as "legendary for reliability," the Toyota Tacoma is a midsize truck that excels in off-road performance. Reviews often highlight how Tacomas can easily hit 400,000 miles, and there’s even one example still running after 1.5 million miles. The Tacoma's highly customizable options and rugged build make it a favorite among truck enthusiasts.

Starting Price: ~$41,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 31%

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a staple in the full-size truck market, thanks to its durable powertrain and strong chassis. It's a reliable workhorse that easily surpasses the 250,000-mile mark. For used models, consider the 2017 model which boasts a strong and efficient base V6 engine, or the 2018 model, which earned an 85/100 rating from J.D. Power.

Starting Price: ~$42,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 41.3%

Built for heavy-duty tasks and known for fewer repairs, the GMC Sierra 2500HD delivers exceptional reliability. Its Duramax diesel engines, robust suspension, and strong powertrain allow it to tackle the toughest jobs. For drivers needing a dependable workhorse, the Sierra 2500HD is a top pick.

Starting Price: ~$36,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 17.5%

The Honda Pilot is a reliable midsize SUV with a strong V6 engine. To avoid costly repairs, keep an eye on common Honda issues like wire harnessing and warped front brake rotors. Regular oil changes help keep it running smoothly, ensuring longevity.

Starting Price: ~$49,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 11.9%

The Acura MDX blends luxury with longevity. Featuring a well-built V6 engine and a durable all-wheel-drive system, the MDX’s sophisticated design — such as tactile physical controls for climate and a versatile seven-person interior — doesn’t compromise on reliability. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and durability.

Starting Price: ~$64,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 36.4%

Families love the Toyota Sequoia for its spacious three-row interior and impressive towing capability of up to 8,980 pounds. Thanks to its powerful twin-turbocharged V6 engines and pickup chassis durability, this SUV has staying power. J.D. Power gives it a predicted reliability score of 75/100.

Starting Price: ~$27,000

PChance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 13.5%

Over 13.5% of Toyota Camrys reach the 250,000-mile mark, which is no small feat. While regular oil changes and light maintenance are necessary, the Camry’s build quality and fuel efficiency make it a top choice for drivers seeking longevity in a mid-size sedan.

Starting Price: ~$28,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 16.6%

The Honda Accord is renowned for its reliability, with 16.6% of models reaching 250,000 miles. Its well-engineered powertrain and resilient chassis make it a long-lasting favorite. U.S. News also notes its swift acceleration and smooth handling, making it a comfortable and reliable ride.

Starting Price: ~$30,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 13.9%

Did you know that the “CR-V” literally stands for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle”? This versatile compact SUV is known to be quite a long stayer — if properly maintained, way.com attributes that lifespan to being able to last 250,000-300,000 miles. Owners highlight its efficient engine and affordable maintenance costs as key factors in its longevity, one even recommended the following “fluids using all Honda OEM fluid, change the plugs and serpentine belt” to get another 100k miles out of it.

Starting Price: ~$42,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 26.8%

The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged SUV designed for off-road adventures and long-term reliability. With nearly 27% surpassing 250,000 miles, it’s built to endure tough conditions. Reddit threads rave about the 4Runners saying “even with neglect 200k is not really high mileage, [if] it's broken in, while others advise, “ fluid changes, replace whatever suspension component is worn out, and do the timing belt every 90k.”

Starting Price: ~$44,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 42.6%

The Ram 3500 is built for heavy-duty tasks, featuring a high-strength steel frame and a powerful engine for towing and hauling. With a comprehensive maintenance schedule, nearly a quarter of Ram 3500s reach 200,000 miles, making it one of the most reliable trucks in its class.

Starting Price: ~$56,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 22%

Not the best car to buy if you hate parallel parking but it is known for its spacious interior for a reason. With a reliable V8 engine, the Chevrolet Suburban is perfect for large families or those needing a durable, long-lasting SUV. Vehicle History points out that models from 2010 to 2014 are particularly reliable.

Starting Price: ~$28,000

Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles: 12.6%

Best known for its fuel efficiency, the Toyota Prius also has a strong reputation for longevity. Its hybrid powertrain, combined with Toyota’s emphasis on durability, makes it a low-maintenance, long-lasting vehicle for drivers who prioritize saving on fuel costs.

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