Improved performance and reliability has increased the life expectancy of many vehicles. As a result, many drivers are keeping their cars and trucks in excess of 10 years.
According to an IHS Markit study, the average age of vehicles in the U.S. is a record 11.6 years, with the average length of ownership at 79.3 months, or nearly seven years. Even after an owner has relinquished his or her new vehicle, that used car or truck can go on to provide many more years of utility for its next owner.
Certain models top the charts among the longest kept vehicles, according to iSeeCars, an automotive industry group. These include the Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet Corvette, Mercedes-Benz SLK, Porsche Boxster and the Toyota Land Cruiser, which is the longest-kept vehicle and also is the automaker’s longest-running SUV. This vehicle is held onto for an average 10.6 years after being bought new.
To hold on to their vehicles as long as possible, drivers should follow maintenance schedules, keep their cars and trucks clean and make repairs promptly. When it comes time to get a new vehicle, upkeep can go a long way toward improving resale value or getting back more on trade-ins.
