It’s difficult to picture putting over 500,000 miles on a single car. While such high mileage is often associated with classic vehicles, we’re here to show that quite a few used cars are more than capable of exceeding that mark with some even reaching the incredible milestone of one million miles!
Still skeptical? Every high-mileage car featured in this list comes with accounts from owners who share exactly how they managed to achieve it.
We’ve ranked these dependable vehicles to identify the best high mileage cars most likely to surpass 500,000 miles, all based on genuine reviews from real owners.
10. 2005–2007 Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier is a compact pickup that offers the advantages of a full-size truck. Though it comes well-equipped straight from the factory, the Frontier is highly customizable, which makes it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts.
When it comes to handling tougher jobs, owners can rely on the truck’s performance, backed by Nissan’s reputation for durability and reliability.
Nissan has been a key player in the automotive world, especially recognized for its contributions to electric vehicle innovation.
On the more rugged end of its lineup, the brand has built capable trucks like the Frontier. Initially derived from the Navara, the Frontier eventually became its own independent model and continues to be produced today, including the updated 2023 version.
Brian Murphy drove his Frontier to an incredible one million miles and returned it to the same dealership where he had purchased it 13 years earlier.
Nissan celebrated this remarkable milestone during the unveiling of the 2020 Frontier at the Chicago Auto Show and rewarded Murphy with the newest model once it was released.
Nissan has been building trucks for the U.S. since 1958, and the 2005 Frontier marks the first full redesign since 1998. Now in its eighth generation, this version is bigger, more powerful, and styled with bold, muscular lines that mirror the full-size Titan. Its grille is nearly identical to the Titan’s, and the prominent fender flares give it a more aggressive stance.
The new Frontier shares several features with the Titan, including a spray-in bedliner, the Utili-track tie-down system, and a fully boxed steel frame. Its wheelbase is nearly 10 inches longer than the previous model, which improves ride comfort and stability. Suspension components and layout are also borrowed from the Titan, with a double-wishbone front and leaf spring rear.
Both the Crew Cab and King Cab are the same length, but the Crew Cab offers more rear-seat space and forward-hinged rear doors, making it more suitable for families.
This does reduce bed size slightly, but the bed still measures nearly 58.6 inches long and 61.4 inches wide—an increase from the previous model. Rear seats in both cabs can be reconfigured to accommodate more cargo inside the cab.
There is no regular-cab version of the new Frontier. Instead, Nissan aims to dominate the compact truck segment with a powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 265 hp and 284 lb-ft of torque, giving the truck a towing capacity of over 5,500 pounds. The base King Cab model comes with a 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine.
Interior quality is improved, with better ergonomics and materials than the 2004 model. Safety features include standard front-seat side-impact airbags and available curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard passengers.
With its bold styling, practical features, and strong engine lineup, the 2005 Frontier is a serious competitor against new compact trucks from Toyota and Dodge.
The V6 engine offers significantly more power than previous versions. Acceleration is quick, thanks to strong torque and well-tuned transmissions. Ride and handling are improved, though the truck still feels firm and bouncy, as expected from a compact pickup. Off-road versions benefit from hill start assist and downhill assist control, adding capability on tough terrain.
Inside, the cabin is straightforward and comfortable, with intuitive controls and ample space. The increased dimensions improve passenger comfort, though the materials remain average.
Like the Titan, the Frontier offers a utility bed package that includes the Utili-track system. It uses five rails—two on the bed floor, one on each side, and one at the front wall—along with sliding cleats for flexible cargo tie-downs. Accessories like bed dividers, cargo trays, modular storage, and bike racks are also available to expand utility.
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9. 2003–2008 Volkswagen Golf
The Volkswagen Golf is often considered one of the finest hatchbacks ever made and holds a crucial place in the automaker’s legacy.
Across eight successful generations, the Golf has appealed to a wide range of drivers, from families seeking practicality to performance enthusiasts drawn to models like the GTI and R32.
Volkswagen has always aimed to create vehicles for the masses aptly reflected in its name, which means “people’s car” in German.
Following the global success of the Beetle, the Golf became the brand’s next big hit. It has remained a versatile choice, offering fuel efficiency, comfort, and exciting performance variants for decades.
A devoted Golf owner announced on Facebook that their car had surpassed one million miles.
In response to a question about whether the engine and transmission were original, the owner confirmed that the engine was still the original one, while the transmission had been rebuilt once and then eventually replaced.
8. 1997–2004 Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is a legendary American muscle car, renowned for delivering high-powered performance to the rear wheels.
With its aggressive styling and thrilling acceleration, the Corvette has long been a symbol of American automotive muscle.
The C5 generation marked a turning point for the model, as Chevrolet addressed previous criticisms by upgrading both the interior materials and mechanical systems.
These improvements made the car more refined and better performing, solidifying its status as a favorite among enthusiasts. Today, the C5 remains one of the best values in performance cars.
Mark Blackwell proved that the Corvette isn’t just for weekend drives. Using his C5 Corvette as a mobile office for a long daily commute, he eventually logged an astonishing 773,338 miles.
He later donated the car to the National Corvette Museum and reflected on the experience, saying, “it’s been an absolutely fabulous car and no complaints.”
The 2003 Corvette continues to offer an impressive blend of ultrahigh performance, everyday drivability, and strong value, making it a standout in the sports car segment. Its capability as a daily driver paired with serious performance credentials is a major plus, especially given its relatively modest sticker price.
However, there are some downsides, such as areas of the interior that feature low-grade materials, and the fact that the high-performance Z06 version is not available in coupe or convertible form, limiting body style options for those who want maximum performance.
For 2003, the biggest update is the introduction of the 50th Anniversary package, which is available on both coupe and convertible models.
This commemorative package includes Anniversary Red exterior paint, a unique shale-colored interior, champagne-colored wheels, and “50th Anniversary” exterior badging, along with matching embroidery on the headrests and floor mats.
The package also adds the all-new Magnetic Ride Control system, which provides instantaneous shock adjustment to optimize both ride comfort and handling. This new suspension system can also be ordered separately on coupe and convertible models for those who choose not to go with the full Anniversary package.
In addition to the special edition, all 2003 Corvette models benefit from increased standard equipment. This includes sport seats, a power-adjustable passenger seat, foglamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, and, for coupe models specifically, a parcel net and a luggage shade. These enhancements improve overall comfort and convenience, adding to the Corvette’s appeal.
7. 1993–1996 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The 1993–1996 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is often regarded as the last “true” Mercedes, a model that represented the pinnacle of the brand’s traditional engineering and quality before later cost-cutting efforts began to strip away some of the marque’s most beloved features.
Known for its graceful design and solid build, this generation of the E-Class offers a luxurious experience that makes both drivers and passengers feel like they’re gliding in a land yacht.
Mercedes-Benz has long stood at the forefront of the automotive world, with a legacy of producing vehicles that blend luxury and performance.
In more recent years, the company has turned its focus toward technological innovation, incorporating high-end features even into its lower-tier models.
This evolution has led to the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, now recognized as the most technologically advanced model the brand has ever produced.
In Albania, where Mercedes vehicles are immensely popular, it’s said that every third registered car is a used Mercedes.
This may be due in part to the impressive longevity of older models still operating today. One such example is Luan Nina, who has driven his 30-year-old yellow German taxi over 980,000 miles.
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6. 1990–1993 Honda Accord
The Honda Accord from 1990 to 1993 is a beloved Japanese sedan known for its exceptional reliability and sturdy build quality.
With a modest design that often flies under the radar, this version of the Accord conceals smart engineering beneath its understated exterior.
This fourth-generation Accord introduced an all-new drivetrain, powered by a 2.2-liter inline-4 engine capable of delivering up to 130 horsepower.
The engine also featured a secondary balance system that helped minimize vibrations and enhance ride comfort.
True to Honda’s reputation for reliable craftsmanship, this generation of the Accord has proven it’s more than capable of lasting a lifetime with the right care, it can even surpass one million miles.
TFL Classics recently highlighted a 1990 Honda Accord that surpassed one million miles. Today, this car resides in Honda’s private collection as a symbol of the model’s remarkable durability.
Old Volvos don’t die—they just keep getting more worn out. Still, they’re hardly the only aging machines on the road around here. In North Georgia, the combination of minimal road salt and smooth pavement means even the most tired cars remain drivable. Hyundai Excel?
There’s a guy down the road who proudly owns one. Sure, the paint may be gone, but the body stays solid. Early 1990s Honda Accord? Now that’s what I refer to as “a beater leader.” Just like Waffle House, Baptist churches, and Kudzu, they’re absolutely everywhere.
In 1990, Honda made a move that seemed like a foray into the appliance industry. These Accords have about as much personality as the late Roger Smith. The design is basic—three-box styling with only the faintest hint of curves from certain angles. The Accord has always been, and still is, a toaster on wheels, not unlike the Volvo 240.
But this generation marked Honda’s first serious entry into the midsize segment, one dominated by the Ford Taurus at the time. Soichiro Honda sent this new challenger in with no flash—plain design, but with some hidden strengths under the surface.
One of those was a 2.2-liter inline-four engine that proved nearly indestructible. You could rev it hard and it would keep going. It came from the same company that already dominated motorcycles and scooters, and even in a market where V6s were becoming the norm, Honda’s four-cylinder delivered enough performance to keep the Accord a strong contender. Acceleration was there when needed, though most buyers didn’t care much either way.
The interior was also well-executed. Everything was logically placed and incredibly easy to use. However, by 1991, when Ford gave the Taurus a redesign, it had surpassed the Accord in some areas.
The Accord’s ride was more engaging than the Taurus’s soft float, but Honda was still competing in what many viewed as the appliance car market. Even so, its handling wasn’t quite enough to make it best in class.
Three core elements made this Accord truly stand out. First, Honda kept it simple—one model, one engine, two transmissions (manual or automatic), and a minimal list of assembly parts.
This simplicity played a massive role in its reputation for quality. While American manufacturers were still figuring out how to build consistently reliable cars, Honda had a bulletproof assembly operation in Marysville, Ohio.
That plant hardly ever stopped and rarely needed intervention. GM could barely move a handful of Cavaliers in Japan, while Honda was sending thousands of Accords to Japanese buyers. By the time Chrysler hit another crisis and Ford was brushing off major transmission issues in the Taurus, Honda was quietly racking up sales—without relying on rental fleets to pad their numbers.
The second standout was Honda’s five-speed manual transmission. It was unmatched in its class. Forget Luminas or Camrys—this gearbox was smoother than anything, even rivaling handshakers in the Corvette or Camaro. Shifts were near-perfect, only developing slight notchiness after years of use.
Honda still had a strong sporting spirit during this time, and that came through in how they offered the manual across all body styles—coupe, sedan, wagon—and all trims.
Whether you went for a loaded EX (cherry vanilla), mid-level LX (plain vanilla), or stripped-down DX (cheap ass vanilla), you could still get it with a stick. This gave teenagers and budget-conscious drivers a rare escape from the typically dull family haulers.
At that point, Honda was carving out a reputation as a poor man’s BMW, though not quite literally. The Prelude rivaled the BMW 318i. The Integra was quickly becoming a legend.
It was the better highway cruiser compared to both. By including the manual transmission across all configurations, Honda created a genuine alternative in a market otherwise dominated by automatic V6 sedans with uninspiring dynamics. Even today, these Accords still hold a premium on the used market.
Finally—and it pains me to admit this—the 1990–1993 Honda Accord is a more reliable and durable vehicle than the Volvo 240 could ever hope to be.
You don’t have to worry about lights or switches cutting out. The blower motor doesn’t require an engineering degree to replace. And the powertrain? It offers similar longevity with 20–30% better fuel economy. The bottom line?
These Accords are everywhere for a reason. At a single major intersection, I counted at least five. Drive five miles in any direction and you’re almost guaranteed to spot one. Many now show faded paint or wear and tear from years of use, especially among younger drivers, but they keep going.
Parents can rest easy knowing their kids won’t be stranded in the middle of nowhere. Budget buyers don’t have to stress over constant repairs or replacement decisions. These cars simply last. A decade from now, I wouldn’t be surprised if people look back on this generation of Accord with the same admiration we now reserve for 1980s Mercedes.
5. 1973–1989 Porsche 911 Turbo
The Porsche 911 Turbo produced between 1973 and 1989 continues to turn heads, thanks to its timeless design that some fans argue is more appealing than even the latest models.
But beyond its iconic looks, the 911 Turbo is a precision-engineered performance machine equally suited for thrilling track days or stylish city cruising.
When the original Porsche 911 debuted in 1963, it made an unforgettable impression on car enthusiasts worldwide.
Since then, more than 2.1 million units have been integrated into the lives of passionate owners.
With over six decades of evolution and refinement, the Porsche 911 has built a reputation as one of the most celebrated sports cars ever made.
Bill MacEachern’s 911 Turbo, with 725,000 miles on the clock, has earned a place in Porsche’s official archives. His love affair with the brand began in 1970 when he first test-drove a Porsche.
Five years later, he placed an order and took delivery of his dream car in 1976. Since then, he has meticulously documented his ownership journey, with the car becoming part of the fabric of his life.
4. 2005–2015 Toyota Tacoma
The second-generation Toyota Tacoma marked a significant leap forward, becoming larger and offering a more compelling mid-size truck package from the Japanese automaker.
Known for its practicality and rugged appeal, this Tacoma became a top choice for those seeking durability and versatility in a truck.
Toyota, another well-respected Japanese automaker, has long been associated with reliability, a trait that has made the Tacoma immensely popular in North America.
Today, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma continues to uphold this reputation, remaining a favorite among adventurers and workers alike who need a vehicle that can withstand tough demands and rough terrain. Mike, the proud owner of a world-famous Tacoma that has clocked 1.5 million miles, shared his journey.
If you’re shopping for a new pickup truck, most of the available choices today are large in size. However, there are still a few midsize trucks that stand out, like the 2015 Toyota Tacoma, which has proven its value over time by offering practical utility for those who don’t need the full capabilities of the larger, heavy-duty options.
Both available engines offer solid performance: the base four-cylinder is fuel-efficient and adequate for daily driving, while the V6 delivers quick acceleration for the segment and enough power for towing.
The Tacoma is also relatively easy to maneuver for its size, and when equipped with off-road packages, it becomes one of the most capable trucks in its class. In particular, the TRD Pro model is likely the most off-road-friendly pickup available. On the inside, every Tacoma includes Bluetooth and a 6.1-inch touchscreen as standard, and features like app integration and a rearview camera are available as well.
Despite these strengths, the Tacoma is starting to feel dated in some areas. The interior uses a lot of hard plastics that make it feel cheap, and although the cabin is roomy, the seats are flat and positioned low, which can make longer trips uncomfortable. Both engines offer decent fuel economy and power, but they tend to get noisy under hard acceleration.
The braking performance is acceptable, but the pedal feels soft and can be tricky to modulate smoothly, which may undermine driver confidence. Also disappointing is the loss of the regular cab body style for 2015.
Toyota was the last manufacturer offering a midsize truck with a regular cab, and while the extended and crew cabs are more practical, the regular cab was a more affordable entry point for buyers looking to get into a truck.
Still, the 2015 Tacoma remains a strong pick among midsize trucks. Competing models like the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, both new for the year, offer slightly higher towing capacities, smoother rides, and much more modern interiors. The 2015 Nissan Frontier is another rival, and while it’s also aging like the Tacoma, it delivers comparable versatility and off-road performance.
However, its four-cylinder engine is less powerful and less fuel-efficient, and its crew cab has a more cramped backseat. Though GM’s new trucks have the edge in refinement and capability, the Tacoma continues to offer strong appeal within the midsize segment.
The 2015 Toyota Tacoma comes with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive and two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 4.0-liter V6. The standard four-cylinder makes 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque.
A five-speed manual transmission is standard on Access Cab models, while PreRunner Access and Double Cabs come standard with a four-speed automatic that’s also optional on the manual-equipped versions.
A rear-wheel-drive Tacoma with the four-cylinder and manual transmission is rated at 22 mpg combined (21 city/25 highway) by the EPA, while the automatic drops that slightly to 21 mpg combined (19/24). Opting for four-wheel drive brings fuel economy down to 19 mpg combined with either transmission.
The V6 engine is rated at 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque and comes paired with either a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. With the automatic, rear-wheel-drive Tacomas achieve 19 mpg combined (17 city/21 highway), while four-wheel-drive versions come in at 18 mpg combined (16/21).
The six-speed manual setup yields 18 mpg combined (16/21) with rear-wheel drive and 17 mpg combined (15/19) with four-wheel drive.
In terms of safety, the 2015 Tacoma comes standard with antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum), brake assist, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, and front active head restraints. A rearview camera is optional.
In Edmunds braking tests, a Double Cab 4WD V6 Tacoma stopped from 60 mph in 132 feet, which is average for the segment. Government crash tests gave the Tacoma an overall score of four out of five stars. Crew cab models received three stars for frontal crash protection, while extended cabs got four stars. All Tacomas earned five stars for side crash protection.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the Tacoma “Good” in moderate-overlap frontal offset and side crash tests, but it received a “Marginal” rating in the roof strength test. The seat and head restraint design scored “Good” for whiplash protection in rear-end collisions.
Driving the Tacoma with the four-cylinder engine reveals a powertrain that’s a bit noisy and not overly strong, but it offers respectable torque at 180 lb-ft, making it a decent choice for light-duty work and fuel-conscious buyers. For those who plan to tow or haul more seriously, the V6 is the obvious choice with its significantly better power.
On the road, the Tacoma has a firm ride, especially if equipped with a TRD suspension package. Still, it’s not uncomfortable, and the newer TRD Pro suspension improves on the older TX version. The brakes themselves work fine, but the soft pedal feel can be off-putting. Off the pavement, however, the Tacoma is in its element.
The 4WD version offers substantial capability, and the available TRD Off-Road package adds to that—though it’s mainly geared toward more serious off-road enthusiasts. Even the four-cylinder 4WD Access Cab stands out as an excellent all-terrain value.
3. 2011–2016 Ford Super Duty
The 2011–2016 Ford Super Duty has consistently remained a leader among heavy-duty pickups, renowned for its impressive towing and payload capabilities.
While being one of the toughest trucks on the market, it doesn’t compromise on comfort, offering a refined ride for everyday driving.
Ford Motor Company is one of the most iconic automotive brands in the world, known for producing vehicles that cater to a wide array of consumer needs.
The Ford Super Duty lineup is no exception, providing multiple trims and engine options that can serve as either a smooth cruiser or a relentless workhorse.
The owner of a 2013 F-350 Super Duty managed to surpass 1.3 million miles. However, this journey wasn’t without its challenges.
The truck required 12 windshield replacements, four turbochargers, a new transmission, and several other repairs.
Despite all that, it’s still running strong, proving that it’s just an engine swap away from feeling nearly brand new.
2. 1988–2002 Chevrolet Silverado
Beginning its life as a light-duty vehicle in the 1930s, the Chevrolet Silverado has since become a go-to pickup for many drivers.
Offering a balance of practicality, torque, efficiency, and overall value, it stands out as a worthy alternative to more mainstream rivals.
Chevrolet has been in the truck business for decades and has fine-tuned its craft. The Silverado evolved from a compact utility truck into a durable and dependable heavy-duty machine.
While the newer Silverado ZR2 might not boast the aggressive off-road persona of a Ford F-150 Raptor, it brings plenty of utility and reliability to the table.
Frank Oresnik purchased his 1991 Silverado when it had just 41,000 miles on the odometer. The previous owner had passed away, and the widow opted for a smaller car.
Since acquiring it, Frank used the truck for food deliveries around the north side of Chicago.
Chevrolet even sent representatives and a camera crew to document Frank’s milestone as he crossed the one-million-mile mark.
1. 2010–2015 Hyundai Elantra
The 2010–2015 Hyundai Elantra might not be as flashy or sporty as its rivals like the Honda Civic or Mazda 3, but it still stands out with a stylish design and generous standard features.
While its base engine and highway performance may not be the most thrilling, the Elantra’s spacious interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and remarkable reliability make it an excellent choice in the compact sedan segment.
Hyundai, a South Korean automaker founded in 1967, has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality, affordable vehicles.
With its focus on safety, innovation, and detail, Hyundai has earned a place among the highest-mileage vehicles in the world.
The Elantra, in particular, leads the pack for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordable price point. While several vehicles on this list have crossed the million-mile threshold, Farrah Haines achieved that feat in just five years.
As a delivery driver for auto parts, Farrah is constantly on the road, often covering up to 500 miles daily. She brings the car in for an oil change every two weeks.
Aside from installing a cow catcher which she hasn’t had to use Farrah says that’s the only special maintenance she’s done. To honor her accomplishment, Hyundai presented her with a gold 1M emblem for the odometer and gifted her a brand-new 2019 Elantra.
The Hyundai Elantra is an attractive economy car that has climbed its way up to become one of the top-rated compact vehicles. With a comprehensive set of features and strong safety ratings, it manages to outclass long-time benchmarks like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Available now in both sedan and five-door hatchback versions, the Elantra showcases how quickly South Korea has learned from the success of Japanese automakers and redefined the rules of the compact segment. However, the previously available Coupe model—offered only for two years—has been discontinued, leaving the lineup focused on just two body styles.
The Elantra lineup underwent a modest refresh last year. While the core design remains intact, it gained updated front and rear ends. On the Sport and Limited sedan models, LED accents were added to the headlights. As a whole, the Elantra remains a strong symbol of Hyundai’s evolution—more refined and compelling than ever before.
Its body features a dynamic blend of curves that converge toward the rear, where sharply cut door lines give it a sense of motion. The bold styling continues inside the cabin, where the center console is shaped like an hourglass—a visually striking design that also functions well as a comfortable spot to rest your knees.
In terms of powertrains, the Elantra continues to be light and efficient. The base SE sedan and the Limited come with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque.
This engine offers smooth operation and decent acceleration whether paired with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sport model features a newer 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 173 horsepower.
That said, the Elantra doesn’t quite match the class leaders in terms of driving excitement. The throttle response is sluggish, and while the steering has improved—especially in terms of on-center feel—it still lacks the quickness and feedback found in more engaging rivals.
Ride comfort is a strong point, though, and the Elantra does a commendable job of minimizing road noise, even compared to some mid-size sedans. This is especially notable given that the Elantra’s interior dimensions actually overlap with the mid-size category.
Overall, the Elantra delivers excellent value in many areas. According to its specifications, it qualifies as a mid-size vehicle, and this is reflected in the spaciousness of its cabin.
The front seats, while roomy, could benefit from more side bolstering and lateral support—similar to what the coupe once offered. In the rear, legroom is sufficient for adult passengers, though headroom may be limited for those of average or above-average height.
The cabin is also well-equipped with practical storage solutions, including numerous cubbies and bins. One particularly handy compartment is located in front of the shifter and includes the auxiliary input, a power outlet, and a USB port—positioned for easy smartphone connectivity.
