It wasn’t long ago that most vehicles could easily reach several hundred thousand miles with nothing more than regular maintenance.
However, in today’s world of planned obsolescence and disposable technology, getting a car to last a respectable number of years and miles feels increasingly difficult.
Modern vehicles rely heavily on a wide array of sensors and electronic systems to deliver the comfort, convenience, and safety features that drivers now expect.
Additionally, most modern engines are turbocharged to comply with strict environmental and fuel efficiency regulations, which means the mechanical components are often under greater stress.
As a result, many newer cars don’t enjoy the same longevity as some of their older counterparts. If you’re in the market for a used car that’s built to last, you’re in the right place.
Cars That Go 500,000 Miles
The cars featured in this list have either surpassed 500,000 miles already or demonstrate all the signs of being capable of reaching that impressive milestone.
Reliable cars often share a few key traits, including consistently strong reliability ratings from both automotive experts and everyday owners.
And it’s not just Toyota and Honda models that can conquer the half-million-mile mark. Some unexpected contenders are also worth considering if you’re looking for a durable and unconventional vehicle that can stand the test of time.
2002–2007 Honda Accord: 659,000 Miles
The seventh-generation Honda Accord is a prime example of Honda’s reputation for long-lasting reliability.
Specifically, the 2007 model year received a stellar reliability score of 88 out of 100 from J.D. Power, making it a standout in the lineup.
Even more than 20 years after its debut, this generation of Accord remains a frequent sight on the roads, proving that owning a Honda is a solid long-term investment.
When it comes to longevity, Hondas are known to go the distance often exceeding 500,000 miles with proper care.
The seventh-gen Accord is no exception, with numerous owners sharing impressive mileage milestones. One notable example is a 2007 Accord EX-L that racked up an astounding 659,000 miles on its original engine and transmission.
Another Reddit user even mentioned a seventh-gen Accord surpassing 1,000,000 miles, although the specific model year wasn’t disclosed.
Among the verified cases, one owner reported 500,000 miles on a 2007 Accord, while others cited 360,600 miles on a 2003 model and 350,000 miles on a 2005 Accord EX.
These real-world examples firmly establish the seventh-gen Accord as a reliable, long-lasting vehicle.
Now over three decades in the market, the award-winning 2007 Honda Accord continues to earn respect as a well-rounded, high-quality vehicle. When stacked up against its class rival, the Toyota Camry, many experts say it ultimately comes down to personal taste—both vehicles deliver nearly everything a buyer would want.
Reflecting on the Accord’s longevity, U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman likens it to a trusted piece of clothing, saying it’s “Comfy and all-purpose, but familiar, if not boring.” That sense of familiarity, however, seems to work in its favor.
Notably, the Accord has earned that title 21 times, “despite platoons of attractive challengers every year.” On top of that, safety ratings reinforce its reputation: it received 5 out of 5 stars in frontal crash tests conducted by the government, and the highest “good” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
One factor that continues to draw praise from reviewers is the Accord’s strong resale value. Meanwhile, the two-door Accord coupe earns a “better than average” rating for the same cost projection, standing up well within its segment.
Buyers can choose from a wide variety of configurations for the 2007 Honda Accord—eight trims are available for the sedan, while the coupe comes in five versions. For the 2007 model year, Honda replaced the sedan’s previous DX trim with a new entry-level Value Package.
Even as the base model, it comes with a respectable set of features. As Kelley Blue Book puts it, “Honda offers the same top-of-the-line trim levels on both its four-cylinder and six-cylinder models, a practice we wish more manufacturers would employ.”
Trim options for the 2007 Accord include: the Value Package, LX, Special Edition, EX, SE V6, EX-L, LX V6, EX-L V6, and EX-L V6 6MT. Furthermore, each of the three EX-L variants is available in a separate version that includes the optional Honda satellite-linked navigation system.
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1974–1989 Porsche 911: 725,202 Miles
Few cars embody driving passion like the Porsche 911, especially the air-cooled G-series models from the 1970s and 1980s.
Known for their exceptional handling, timeless design, and enduring performance, these cars are often reserved for leisurely summer drives but that doesn’t mean they can’t handle heavy mileage.
Case in point: a 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo that had reached an incredible 725,000 miles by 2017, a feat so impressive that Porsche highlighted the story on their official website.
The G-series 911 has earned its reputation for durability. One owner of a 1978 911 SC 3.0, which had 205,000 miles, remarked on CarSurvey that “It is a very well-engineered car to last so long.”
Another enthusiast went further, calling air-cooled 911s “the epitome of automibilia.” Additional examples include a Reddit user who logged 260,000 miles on their 1978 911 SC.
These testimonials reinforce the G-series Porsche 911’s status as a classic that not only delivers excitement but also stands the test of time.
We enter the world in one of two fundamental ways: as drivers or as passengers. Beneath the philosophical weight of these opposing instincts lie the concrete patterns of how we deal with life’s peaks and valleys.
When confronted with a slate-black Porsche 911SC, it’s reasonable to expect a surge of excitement—an involuntary rush of positive energy, quickened breathing, and an uptick in heart rate. For those born to drive, these surges ignite like a volcanic eruption of joy. For passengers, the experience is significantly more distressing.
Merely going along for the ride doesn’t quite satisfy the passive disposition. Being seated beside the driver in a wild, ferocious, and twitch-sensitive 911SC is arguably one of the worst and most challenging ways to stay passive.
This particular 911SC—this Thing—has the potential to elicit screams from even the pope. When faced with fast-approaching obstacles, even the most composed passengers unravel into irrational fits of terror. Eyes widen, knuckles blanch, and tongues bear the marks of self-inflicted bite wounds.
“This is like a roller coaster,” they murmur, “I hate roller coasters.” Yet the 911SC holds a certain magnetism. When the person behind the wheel knows how to command this finely honed Instrument of Velocity, even the most reluctant passenger is eventually swayed. Suddenly, their fear transforms into exhilaration, spilling out in a spontaneous burst: “I want one, I want one!”
1997–2004 Chevrolet Corvette: 773,000 Miles
The Chevrolet Corvette, especially the fifth-generation (C5), is more than just an iconic American sports car it’s also capable of astonishing mileage.
While 18 mpg may not be ideal for fuel-conscious drivers, those willing to stay on top of maintenance will find the C5 to be exceptionally robust.
One of the most jaw-dropping examples is Mark Blackwell’s 2000 Corvette, which he donated to the National Corvette Museum after logging 773,000 miles still running on its original 5.7-liter engine.
Blackwell’s record-setting Corvette is not an anomaly. Another Reddit user shared their own C5 racking up 349,000 miles, praising the car as “seriously bulletproof.”
Meanwhile, a 2003 Corvette Anniversary Coupe owner declared it “a must have, even if once in your lifetime.”
With yet another example showing a C5 Z06 at over 317,000 miles, it’s clear that the Corvette C5 blends performance and longevity in a way few sports cars can match.
Produced from the 1997 through 2004 model years, the fifth-generation C5 Corvette introduced a refined exterior design along with a new small block V-8 engine delivering 345 horsepower (increased to 350 horsepower starting in 2001 and continuing through the end of production).
The updated exterior styling not only modernized the car’s appearance but also enhanced its aerodynamics, enabling it to reach nearly 30 miles per gallon on the highway.
A high-performance version known as the Z06 was also offered, featuring a 385-horsepower V-8 that was closely based on the standard engine. The Z06 came equipped with upgraded brakes, an optional titanium exhaust system, and, beginning in 2004, a carbon fiber hood was available as an option.
1999–2007 Ford F-350: 1,000,000 Miles
The Ford F-350 has long been regarded as a durable, heavy-duty workhorse, especially among the towing and recovery community.
The first-generation Ford Super Duty lineup, introduced in 1999, came standard with a 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine a powerplant known for its ability to reach 500,000 miles with proper upkeep.
Although the 6.0L turbo diesel in some models has raised reliability concerns, the overall F-350 legacy is one of outstanding endurance.
One Reddit user claimed to have reached the 1,000,000-mile milestone in their 1999 Ford F-350, a testament to the truck’s rugged construction and dependable drivetrain.
Other high-mileage examples include a 1999 XLT CREW 2WD Diesel with 338,000 miles and a 2004 model with 250,000 miles, both with solid 7/10 reliability ratings. These figures affirm the F-350’s place among vehicles capable of truly extraordinary lifespans.
The 2007 Ford F-350, starting at $23,260, is a heavy-duty truck offered in the Super Duty XL 2WD SRW Regular Cab trim. It measures 226.4 inches in length, 79.9 inches in width, and 76.8 inches in height, with a ground clearance of 8.8 inches.
The seating capacity is three, with front headroom measuring 41.1 inches, front legroom at 41.0 inches, and front shoulder room at 68.0 inches. Rear headroom, legroom, and shoulder room figures are not available. The curb weight is listed at 5,697 pounds, and the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is 10,100 pounds. The truck has a payload capacity of 4,299 pounds.
Under the hood, the F-350 comes standard with a 5.4L V8 engine and offers two optional powertrains: a 6.0L V8 and a 6.8L V10. Horsepower ratings include 300 hp as standard, with optional outputs of 362 hp, 325 hp at 5000 RPM, 3300 hp, and 4750 hp. Torque figures are 365 lb-ft standard, with optional ratings of 457 lb-ft, 570 lb-ft at 3750 RPM, 2000 lb-ft, and 3250 lb-ft.
The engine has a V-type cylinder configuration with 8 cylinders, and transmission is handled by a manual gearbox. Fuel options include unleaded gasoline as standard, with diesel available as an option. The drivetrain is rear-wheel drive (RWD).
Other specifications such as wheelbase, cargo capacity, towing capacity, class, standard MPG, and driving range are not provided. Engine size and standard MPG (with units) are also not specified. A titanium exhaust system and carbon fiber hood are not mentioned in this base configuration but may apply to performance variants.
Also Read: 5 SUVs That Stop Running When Hotwired and 5 That Are Too Easy to Steal
2005–2015 Toyota Tacoma: 1,625,000 Miles
Known for its bulletproof build and dependable performance, the Toyota Tacoma has a longstanding reputation as one of the most reliable trucks on the market.
The second-generation Tacoma, in particular, has demonstrated exceptional durability, with countless owners reporting minimal issues even after hundreds of thousands of miles.
Its solid construction and no-nonsense engineering make it a favorite among drivers who value reliability above all else.
Another owner of a 2013 Tacoma mentioned having done nothing beyond basic maintenance like oil changes and preventative servicing, describing it as the “most reliable vehicle I’ve ever owned.
It just always starts no matter what.” Additional Reddit users have reported second-gen Tacomas reaching 480,000 and 400,000 miles, respectively. With records like these, the 2005–2015 Tacoma cements its legacy as one of the longest-lasting vehicles ever made.
If you’re in the market for a truck that sits comfortably between a full-size beast and a compact utility hauler, the 2013 Toyota Tacoma could be a smart choice.
As previous owners of gas-guzzling full-size pickups look to scale down without losing the utility they rely on, the Tacoma steps in to ease concerns about fuel stops while also offering a more manageable size for everyday scenarios—such as navigating tight parking spaces or squeezing through congested traffic lanes.
The Tacoma comes in a variety of configurations, including different body styles, engines, drivetrains, suspension setups, and trim levels, which broadens its appeal—from a basic work-focused pickup to a practical and comfortable option for families.
While it doesn’t match the capabilities of a full-size truck—consider how often you really need to tow 9,000 pounds—the Tacoma compensates with a tough, reliable build and features today’s buyers expect, like iPod integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and access to web-based apps via Toyota’s Entune system.
Buyers have flexibility when it comes to tailoring their Tacoma, from the most stripped-down regular cab with a single bench seat to the newly introduced Limited edition, which transforms the off-road V6 into a feature-rich offering.
The Limited trim for 2013 adds upscale elements such as premium seat materials and heated front seats, which come in handy for those needing a midsize truck in colder climates. Those looking for a more rugged, trail-ready presence—or at least the appearance of one—can go for a Tacoma equipped with the T/X package, while the X-Runner is geared toward drivers who want a bold, city-friendly sport truck.
In a segment that’s rapidly shrinking, the 2013 Toyota Tacoma remains a top contender. While the 2013 Honda Ridgeline presents a cleverly designed option well-suited for daily light-duty tasks, its unibody construction doesn’t offer the traditional toughness many truck buyers prioritize.
With Ford and GM temporarily stepping away from this market, the Tacoma’s main rival is the Nissan Frontier. Though the Frontier is just as tough under the hood, its interior doesn’t measure up in terms of refinement or comfort.
The 2013 Toyota Tacoma comes equipped with either a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 4.0-liter V6 engine and is available in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive.
Most trims come standard with the four-cylinder engine, which delivers 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. Regular and Access Cab models get a five-speed manual transmission as standard, while the PreRunner Access and Double Cab trims are equipped with a four-speed automatic—though this transmission is also available as an option for the other body styles.
For fuel efficiency, a two-wheel-drive Tacoma paired with the four-cylinder and five-speed manual transmission achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined.
Opting for the automatic transmission reduces those numbers to 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. Four-wheel-drive versions return 18 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined, regardless of which transmission is used.
The more powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine comes standard on the 4×4 Double Cab and the X-Runner, and it’s also available as an option for the Access Cab and PreRunner Double Cab. This engine produces 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, and is mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic.
A rear-wheel-drive Tacoma with the V6 and automatic transmission is rated at 17 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. Opting for four-wheel drive drops those numbers slightly to 16 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined. Manual transmission versions with the V6 see slightly lower fuel economy.
According to Edmunds performance testing, a V6-powered Tacoma Double Cab accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, which is considered quick for a midsize pickup. When properly equipped, the Tacoma has a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds.
Cars That Barely Reach 100,000 Miles
If you’re shopping for a used car, chances are that reliability ranks high on your list of priorities. A dependable car not only provides years and miles of trustworthy service, but it can also reduce your ownership costs throughout that time.
However, if you’re aiming to find a vehicle that will last well beyond the 100,000-mile mark, you might want to steer clear of the models listed below.
2012–2015 BMW X1
For many buyers, owning a BMW represents the dream of luxury, performance, and prestige. And to be fair, BMW manufactures some truly impressive vehicles.
However, not all of them live up to the brand’s reputation for engineering excellence, particularly when it comes to reliability.
One such example is the 2012–2015 BMW X1, which was among several BMW models involved in a class-action lawsuit over serious timing chain issues.
The law firm KGG, operating out of New York and New Jersey, filed a lawsuit against BMW alleging failures with the primary timing chain that led to engine damage.
According to Car Complaints, BMW eventually settled the lawsuit and agreed to uphold the 7-year/70,000-mile warranties on the affected vehicles, as well as offering compensation to some owners.
Despite the resolution, we recommend avoiding any of the impacted vehicles entirely including the BMW X1.
2020 Lexus ES300h
Seeing a Lexus on this list may come as a shock, especially since Toyota and its luxury division are generally known for their remarkable longevity.
However, the 2020 Lexus ES300h was subject to a recall just last year due to a flaw in its engine casting.
Specifically, the issue involves “porosity in the engine castings, which could result in cracks that can allow coolant to leak internally or externally.”
This defect is not limited to the ES300h alone; the recall also affected the Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon Hybrid, and RAV4 Hybrid models.
The primary solution in serious cases is to replace the entire engine block. Consumer Reports noted that only 250 out of the 44,191 vehicles recalled are expected to require full engine replacements, but the risk is still significant enough to merit caution.
If you’re considering purchasing a 2020 ES300h, we advise checking its recall history thoroughly. Confirm whether the specific vehicle you’re eyeing was included in the recall and ensure it has been inspected and cleared by a certified Lexus dealership.
The 2020 Lexus ES is a midsize luxury sedan that successfully caters to the core preferences of buyers in this segment. It delivers impeccably smooth and refined handling while offering an optional hybrid powertrain for those focused on maximizing fuel efficiency.
Inside, the cabin maintains a quiet, peaceful environment, even at highway speeds, and features a stylish, upscale design that feels both modern and inviting. Standard technology and driver-assistance features come generously equipped, and the sedan’s large trunk enhances its everyday utility.
One notable drawback is the infotainment system, which relies on a trackpad interface. This setup can be distracting for new users and somewhat cumbersome to use while driving. That said, the ES starts at a lower base price than many of its competitors and stands out as a strong value in a highly competitive luxury class.
For 2020, the Lexus ES receives Android Auto as standard equipment on models produced from October 2019 onward. Gas-only models also offer a new optional rear spoiler. Pricing for the 2020 ES begins at $40,925 and tops out at $46,685 depending on trim and selected features.
Among these, the ES350 base trim is expected to meet the needs of most buyers. It comes with 17-inch wheels and a strong list of standard features such as LED brake lights, automatic LED headlights, a sunroof, power-adjustable side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Inside, the ES350 includes power-adjustable front seats, a manually adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering column, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, faux-leather upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
All ES models are equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ suite, which includes forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control, among other driver aids.
For enhanced comfort and convenience, buyers may consider adding the $1,375 Premium package, which includes rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, driver-seat memory, and heated and ventilated front seats. Additional options like wood trim (\$360) and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert ($500) raise the total cost to $43,160.
The 2020 ES offers two distinct powertrain options. ES350 models are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.
ES300h models come with a hybrid system delivering a net output of 215 horsepower and 153 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and also using front-wheel drive.
In testing, the gas-powered ES reached 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, while the hybrid needed 8.3 seconds. Both variants offer composed handling and a supple ride, making them appealing to luxury buyers seeking comfort over sportiness.
For those desiring a bit more engagement, the F Sport trim enhances performance slightly with larger wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. However, even in this configuration, the ES remains less athletic than rivals like the BMW 5-series.
Also Read:5 Trucks With the Best Resale Value and 5 That Plummet in Price
2011–2015 Subaru Impreza
Similar to BMW, Subaru faced a class-action lawsuit over its naturally aspirated 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter engines (with the FB engine code) used in the 2011–2015 Subaru Impreza.
The complaint centered around high levels of oil consumption that many owners experienced with these engines.
According to Torque News, Subaru responded by settling the lawsuit, extending the powertrain warranties for many of the affected vehicles, and compensating some owners.
The problem was not exclusive to the Impreza either it also impacted the 2012–2013 Forester, Crosstrek, and Legacy models that used the same engines.
If you’re looking at any of these Subarus, it’s wise to verify whether the oil consumption issue was addressed and how well the vehicle has been maintained.
2009–2010 Audi A4
The Audi A4 is widely admired for its sleek styling, refined interior, and strong turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. However, the 2009–2010 model years come with some significant reliability red flags.
According to The Drive, several A4s as well as A5s and Q5s from the same years suffered from rod bearing failures and excessive oil leaks, both of which can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
If you’re intent on buying an A4 from this period, we strongly recommend a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Otherwise, you could be facing repair costs upwards of $7,000 a figure some owners reported being quoted for engine overhauls.
2012–2015 Kia Forte Koup and Sportage
Kia has made significant strides in quality and design over the last decade. However, such progress hasn’t come without some setbacks.
In fact, last year the automaker issued a recall covering the 2012–2015 Kia Forte Koup and Sportage due to “unusual engine noises, fuel smell, burning smell, or check engine lights,” as reported by The Drive.
In response, Hyundai Kia’s corporate partner introduced knock sensors to the affected vehicles as a corrective measure. While that may offer some relief, it’s still important to verify whether the car you’re considering has had this recall addressed.
If you’re shopping for a used Kia with the 2.4-liter engine, double-checking its recall service history is a necessary step before purchase.
For the 2015 model year, the Kia Forte Koup EX trim no longer includes UVO eServices Telematics and a rearview camera as standard equipment. Instead, these features have been moved into an optional bundle now called the EX UVO Package.
The 2015 Kia Forte Koup represents the two-door coupe offering in the broader Forte lineup. It is available with two different powertrains: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four engine in the EX trim, producing 173 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four in the SX trim, rated at 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines can be paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, regardless of trim. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Forte Koup falls slightly behind some of its class competitors. The EX with an automatic transmission achieves EPA estimates of 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, while the manual version returns 24/33 mpg.
The sportier SX model is rated at 22/30 mpg with the automatic and 22/29 mpg with the manual. The broader Forte range also includes a four-door sedan and the Forte5 hatchback variant.
When equipped with the turbocharged engine, the 2015 Kia Forte Koup offers solid performance, delivering strong acceleration for highway merging, overtaking, and climbing hills.
Compared to its predecessor, handling has been significantly enhanced with improved agility and steering that offers decent weight. However, even in Sport mode with the FlexSteer system engaged, the steering lacks meaningful feedback.
Inside, the Forte Koup comfortably accommodates four adults, although the sloping roofline may limit headroom for taller passengers. Trunk capacity stands at a respectable 13.3 cubic feet for a coupe, and practicality is further supported by standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats, which allow for added cargo flexibility.
The infotainment system is a highlight, standing out in its segment for intuitive controls and a navigation interface that remains accessible even while the vehicle is in motion.
The Koup also offers a wide range of available convenience and luxury features, including a heated and ventilated driver’s seat, HID headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, and leather-trimmed seating, enhancing both comfort and appeal.
