High Mileage Vehicles You Should Buy

"MojoMotors.com" (MojoMotors)
10/13/2014 at 09:30 • Filed to: Car Buying, Used Cars

We already told you about the !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! , but now let's look at the top high mileage vehicles by class like compact, midsize, full size, crossover, SUV, pickup and minivan. We analyzed almost 300,000 vehicles on !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! from the model years 2002 to 2012 to find the highest mileage used vehicles.

These model year requirements kept out vehicles like the Chrysler 200, Hyundai Genesis or Buick LaCrosse in our study, but using this guide should give you a better idea about the models to consider while shopping for a car.

Mojo Motors only lists used vehicles for sale at a dealership. This means the vehicles we looked at retain enough of their value for a dealer to resell them and make a profit. It also indicate the vehicles below are more reliable than their competitors long term.

Let's get started.

Highest mileage compact cars

Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza is often overlooked in the compact category because it tends to be more expensive than similarly equipped Civics or Corollas. What sets the Impreza apart, however, is its optional turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive. Just try having as much fun driving through four inches of snow in a Kia Rio.

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is repeatedly named one of the most Followed, most popular, most reliable, etc and etc. It's no surprise the Civic's history of reliability goes back to 2002 and likely far earlier. Two generations of Civics were studied in our analysis, the seventh generation from 2000 to 2005 and the eighth generation from 2006 to 2011. You definitely see both generations on the road today.

Toyota Corolla

The Corolla is like the Civic. Reliable, well priced and economical. These two are the heavyweights in the compact class. They run on a similar production cycle as well with the 9th generation Corolla produced from 2000-2008 and the 10th generation from 2009 to 2013. Buying either one is a shrewd choice.

Kia Rio

You might be surprised to find the Kia Rio on this list. Running on a production cycle almost identical to the Civic, the Rios studied include its first generation from 2000 to 2005 and second generation from 2005 to 2011. The Rio is technically a subcompact so it's smaller than the Corolla and Civic, but its smaller stature means stellar gas mileage and lower prices on the used market. If money or credit is an issue, a used Rio might be your best bet.

Hyundai Accent

The Accent, like the Rio, is technically a subcompact. The Accents exterior and interior styling is very similar to the Rio, but like most Hyundais, it comes with a little more pizazz and an additional body style. The Rio has more of station wagon look, while the Accent has more of a sedan and car look. So if you're deciding between an Accent with high miles and Rio, it will ultimately come down to what's available on the used market near you and which design you prefer.

Highest mileage midsize cars

Acura TL

The TL is a glorified and dolled up Honda Accord, but that's OK because the TL got none of the Accords looks and all of its reliability. And get this, in Japan the Acura TL is actually sold as a Honda. Anyways, our study looked at the second, third and fourth generation TLs. It is also important to note the TL is the only luxury midsize car to top our highest mileage analysis.

Volkswagen Passat

Unlike the typical Honda or Toyota production cycles, Volkswagen production cycles run a bit longer. Our study only looked at the fourth generation B5 Passat and the fifth generation B6 Passat - both sedan and wagon. The older Passats have built up a cult following over the years and owners tend to keep them forever, hence the high mileage.

Honda Accord

No explanation is really necessary here, the Accord has been named a !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! and is one of the most popular used cars in every state. It is one of the most Followed, longest lasting, most reliable and well designed cars anyone can buy, used or new.

Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima is one of the most Followed cars on Mojo Motors and one of the longest lasting. It all started with the introduction of the third generation Altima for the model year 2002. It set the foundation for the design language you see on the newer Altimas. This car ages well and expect this theme to continue.

Toyota Camry

Like the Honda Accord, no list on highest mileage and/or longest lasting would be complete without the Toyota Camry. What makes the Camry so legendary is its 2.4 liter four cylinder engine which was used in the fifth and sixth generations of the car. This small four banger produced great gas mileage and since it was used in two generations of Camrys, repairing and replacing parts is easy for mechanics and your wallet.

Subaru Legacy

The all-wheel-drive, turbocharged Legacy is unlike other high mileage midsize car on this list. It isn't quite a luxury car like the TL, but it isn't quite an entry-level car like the Accord or Altima. The Legacy sits somewhere in between, but it drives and looks much different.

Highest mileage full size cars

Ford Crown Victoria

Cabs and police cars, that's the Crown Victoria. Most of them have been beat to hell and back, yet they keep chugging along. Chock it up to their long production run leaving repair shops with parts galore. Now, not all were given the fleet treatment. Some Crown Vics may have been owned by the town elders, but typically the Grand Marquis and Town Car were reserved for the greatest generation.

Lincoln Town Car

The luxury version of the Crown Victoria and that's basically the Town Car. Primarily owned by car service companies or people who found Elvis' dance moves offensive, the Town Car is reminiscent of a different time. A time when big V8 engines in an equally big car didn't mean inefficiency, it meant being American.

Toyota Avalon

The Toyota Avalon shares the same consumer base as the Town Car or Crown Victoria, but it's a bit different. Instead of rear wheel drive and a V8 engine, it has front wheel drive and a V6. This makes it more efficient and practical for everyday driving. Think of the Avalon as an oversized Camry.

Chevrolet Impala

The Chevrolet Impala is sort of like the Avalon, front wheel drive and equipped with efficient V6 engines. The older Impalas we studied were built on the GM W platform which were used for over 26 years. The older Impalas might not be pretty compared to its newest generation, but it makes up for it with low resale prices and longevity to boot.

Chrysler 300

While the Chevrolet Impala and Toyota Avalon have their front wheel drive and V6 engines, the 300 sports rear wheel drive and one V6 engine, but two V8 engines. It isn't exactly practical, but the 300 is one of the longest lasting big cars on the used car market.

Highest mileage crossovers

Volvo XC90

Aside from the Crown Victoria and the Land Rover Defender, not many cars have production cycles that go over a decade without a substantial redesign. Then again, not many cars are like the XC90. This crossover was built with a few different engines over the years, some more reliable than others, so make sure to study up on engines that helped propel the XC90 as the highest mileage crossover being sold across the country.

Hyundai SantaFe

We were surprised to see the Hyundai SanteFe make the cut as one of the top high mileage crossovers to buy considering the vast differences the first gen SantaFe and the its second generation. The first gen, built from 2001 to 2006, had a very unique design and room for only five passengers. The second generation, built from 2007 to 2012, had three rows and a much more contemporary design. Our recommendation? Get the second generation SantaFe which shares many of its components with the Sonata. This means cheaper parts and easier repairs should you ever need service on this immortal crossover.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is an eight passenger crossover which means it drives more like a car, but looks more like an SUV. Two generation were studied in this analysis including the first generation, built from 2000 to 2007 and the second generation from 2008 to 2013. If space is key, either the Honda Pilot or Highlander will suit your family and both will last long enough to drive the kids' carpool to elementary school and then move them into college.

Honda Pilot

Similar to the Highlander, the three row Honda Pilot is perfect for the mom or dad avoiding the minivan. The study looked the first gen Pilot and the early years of the second gen Pilot which is still being built today. Since it's under the hood where it really matters, both generations use the same 3.5 V6 engine which is a hallmark in two other longest lasting cars, the Acura TL and Honda Accord.

Honda CR-V

The smallest crossover on this list is the CR-V. It was once said the CR-V is basically the crossover version of the Honda Civic which isn't a bad analogy. The CR-V and Civic share many of the same components including engines. It might not be easy finding a used CR-V at a low price, since most drivers prefer to keep them in the family.

Highest mileage SUVs

Chevrolet Suburban & Tahoe / GMC Yukon & Yukon XL

The Suburban and Yukon XL is a fully enclosed Silverado 1500 or Sierra 1500 with three rows of seats and enough room inside for a few Smart Cars. Our study considered the tenth and eleventh generation Suburban and Yukon. These trucks will not have the polished driving dynamics you expect from newer vehicles or even an F150, but they will drive you and your entire extended family to the end of the world and back. Gas mileage is abysmal, but this should be expected with most older SUVs.

The Tahoe is the lower level full size SUV while the Yukon is a step up, but the the differences between the Yukon and Tahoe aren't so obvious. It takes a test drive to really feel the difference, yet even in the older generations it can be difficult to separate the two. The analysis took into account the second and third generations of each SUV.

Ford Expedition

The Expedition was Ford's answer to the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon. Our study looked at the first, second and third generation Expeditions. The full size SUV was available in two sizes, one that's about the size of the Chevrolet Tahoe and another that's the size of the Suburban which is called the Expedition EL. The EL is only available in the third gen Expedition so if you're looking for that extra third row legroom, search from the 2007 model year and newer.

Toyota Sequoia

When most people think of an SUV, they think of the big boys like the Suburban, Yukon or Durango so you might be surprised to see the Sequoia included as one the highest mileage SUVs to buy. Toyota followed the same format as Chevrolet by taking their pickup truck, in this case the Tundra, enclosing the bed and giving it seats for up to 8 people. The Sequoias in our study included the first generation and second generation which is still being built.

Highest mileage pickups

Ford F250

No surprises here. The heavy duty trucks, especially the F250 is quite possibly the longest lasting, highest mileage vehicle you can find on the road that a dealership is still likely to be selling. These things will not die. Our study included every generation of the F250, but they are not created equal. Do a little research to see what's the best combination for F250 longevity.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 / GMC Sierra 2500

The Silverado 2500 and Sierra 2500 are basically twins except for a nicer interior sported by the the Sierra 2500. Both are heavy duty monsters like the F250 and will likely survive the zombie apocalypse before you. Our study accounted for the first and second generation Chevrolet and GMC trucks . Like all vehicles with a wealth of engine choices, make sure to research the most reliable options that suit your needs for a heavy duty truck.

Dodge Ram 2500

The heavy duty Ram 2500 in our study included the second, third and fourth generations. Like the other heavy duty pickups, the Ram 2500 was available with a swath of engine choices so make sure you decide on a particular engine before buying. While Dodge trucks aren't as popular as the Silverado, Sierra or F250, they are still a smart pick when trying to save a buck or two over its more popular competitors.

Ford F150

The F150 is the only light duty truck on this list and it's the best selling vehicle in the United States. It's also the most Followed pickup truck on Mojo Motors. The F150 has a long tradition as being the work horse of choice and our study took into account the tenth, eleventh and twelfth generations. Most shoppers find the F150 to be the most refined and responsive pickup available on the market.

Highest mileage minivans

Dodge Grand Caravan / Chrysler Town & Country

The Dodge Grand Caravan and the Chrysler Town & Country are the only minivans still produced by an American automaker. They are also the only American minivans to make it on this list as a top high mileage pick. While the Grand Caravan looks very similar to the Chrysler Town & Country, the Grand Caravan is typically cheaper and lacks the luxury refinements of the Town & Country. If you have young kids, that luxury definitely won't matter to them so if wood grain interiors don't excite you, stick to the Grand Caravan.

Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna are considered the kings in the minivan category. When it comes down to which one you should buy, it's all about the looks and all wheel drive. If AWD is a must, go with the Sienna. If not, then pick whichever one suits your personality best because you will probably have it for a while. Our study of the Odyssey included its second, third and fourth generations.

Kia Sedona

Shoppers looking to buy used minivans probably aren't considering the Sedona, but they really should. Yes, it's smaller than the other minivans on this list and it lacks some of the refinements, but it still has room for up to eight people and those quintessential sliding doors. Our study looked at the first and second generation Sedonas which are easy to find and significantly cheaper than any other minivan on this list.

Toyota Sienna

All three generations of the Toyota Sienna were covered in the study, but the second and third generations are the best options. The Sienna is the only minivan with all wheel drive as an option so if you want the look of a minivan, but driving dynamics of a car equipped with AWD, you're in luck. Expect a hit in MPG if you do decide to go with the AWD version, though.

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DISCUSSION (100)

Party-vi > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 09:37

I wouldn't suggest a turbocharged high-mileage car like an Impreza. Assuming it's got over 100,000 miles it's probably time for new turbos, and I can't imagine it would have been driven responsibly by the previous owners. Solid list otherwise.

Samuel Jackson > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 09:46

That's a good point. I wouldn't want my Impreza after 100K miles...

MojoMotors.com > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 09:49

Thanks! You're right, while the turbo is more fun, the naturally-aspirated 1.5, 1.6 or 2.0 engines will be better at high mileage.

OPPOsaurus WRX > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 09:51

that plus 4 inches of snow is about all it could take before the front starts becoming a snowplow

Stupidru > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 10:23

I wouldn't necessarily recommend any 2.5L Subaru- go for the H6 variant and those WILL run forever. No head gasket issues, no turbo to deal with, and no timing belt makes for one bullet-proof Subaru

Mr Mufakka > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 10:48

I was sure that I was going to see the 95-02 Toyota 4Runner on this list. Almost 200k here and has been a dream to own/maintain. (Well, except for the location/position of the stupid oil filter. Why must they design them so the outlet is pointing down!?!!??)

Bingo Bongo > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 10:48

We picked up a 2004 Kia Sedona EX with under 90k miles for $5200 (tax, plates, dealer fee included) a few months ago. I'm glad to see it on the list...I was nervous as heck buying a car that old for my family to get around in. But it already went through a cross-country drive like a champ. It's loud as hell on the inside, but it does the job, and sounds like it will keep doing so as long as I take care of it.

I tried to convince my wife to let me get pink flames and a stylized "Shaggin Wagon" painted on it, but the idea didn't fly.

MojoMotors.com > Mr Mufakka
10/13/2014 at 11:14

Our list was just outside that range. We only looked at 2002-2012.

MojoMotors.com > Bingo Bongo
10/13/2014 at 11:20

You're proof that buying the higher mileage minivan can be a good choice. Too bad the lady didn't give you A-OK. We would have replaced the gif in this article with a picture of your Sedona.

Audistein > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 11:27

Almost anything built by Toyota, Honda could be on this list as long as it's not a sport model. I think avoiding old, high-mileage sports cars from any brand is a good idea.

As for vehicles that belong on this list, the Lexus RX from any generation. It's far more reliable than the XC90. The Lexus GS and LS are also both probably better than the 300, Legacy, or Impala.

Finally, I have a question, if anyone can answer it. Are police package Crown Vics more reliable? I know they have "heavy duty" suspensions and a few other components, but does that actually translate to parts laster longer and having lower failure rates?

guysmileypkt > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 11:29

Very confused to see GTIs on the top image but not in the article... was hoping for fodder to help me unload my wheezy beat down 120k mile MarkV...

upstate ny > OPPOsaurus WRX
10/13/2014 at 11:35

I hope when you mean snowplow you are meaning that in a positive sense. I have owned many subaru's along with many other awd and 4wd vehicles. There is not another vehicle on this planet that comes stock with the ability to go through any amount of snow you want to throw at it. I have pulled snow plow trucks and a hum v out of too much snow with a subaru when they were stuck. No manufacture makes an awd system that even comes close to what subaru has. Yes I have driven through snow over top of the hood and never had an issue with a subaru.

Shift24 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 11:53

So basically every mini van available on the market now? Odysseys are great but be weary of the second gen transmissions. For some reason they like to go at 100-120k. But can attest to the Accords. Our family has had four and two with over 330k miles

Toast54 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 11:59

Shades of Al Yankovic

northroad1 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 12:07

Taxi regulars Prius and Escape hybrid?

SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 12:11

I wouldn't recommend even a low mileage Passat unless you're planning on entering electrics hell.

OPPOsaurus WRX > upstate ny
10/13/2014 at 12:13

i agree, the AWD system is insane. i passed an F-350 stuck going up hill while i was on summer tires (which was also insane but in a bad way, gett snow tires this month) but I cant get into my driveway after the plow has come by. No matter how good your AWD is, its shit if the tires arn;t on the ground. My Explorers were insane in the snow. Nothing could stop those (ewll except that 2' ice pile i tired driving over) but thats not exactly apples to apples.

SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 12:13

The only known problem with the EJ motor (turbo or NA) is that the head gaskets will blow somewhere between 200 and 300k miles. I wouldn't be worried about a turbo version. It might not be putting out quite as much power as it used to, but that's the case with any high mileage car.

MojoMotors.com > northroad1
10/13/2014 at 12:14

Didn't make the cut.

tamedcowboy > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 12:16

As for the F250, is the 6.2L gas engine a durable option?

Party-vi > SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie
10/13/2014 at 12:24

So a high-mileage turbocharged car is a better option than an NA car? Turbochargers wear out. Bearings get cooked, intercoolers get old, piping/hoses dry out and break. Why risk it for a marginal bump in power if you're just looking for a high-mileage beater?

SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 12:31

I'm saying that with the EJ motor, it isn't going to make a noticeable change to the car's reliability either way. I know so many people who had WRXs for 250k+ miles with no issues until their head gasket blew. My uncle's Outbacks were at around the same mileage when their head gaskets went, and so was my sister's Legacy. The engine is solid. You just have to keep in mind that you will need to replace the head gaskets and that it's an expensive job because of the engine layout. High mileage beaters don't have to be slow or dreary. My high mileage "beater" that I got for a grand is my favorite car to drive right now.

SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 12:38

Batteries the reason why?

MaxSpeed > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 12:41

Avoid XC90 with the T6 engine. The GM sourced transmission is prone to early damage (less than 100K)

MaxSpeed > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 12:41

Avoid XC90 with the T6 engine. The GM sourced transmission is prone to early damage (less than 100K)

Vintage1982Benz > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 13:15

Kinja'd!!!

Came for old GTI info, all I got as this picture.

MojoMotors.com > MaxSpeed
10/13/2014 at 14:09

Thanks for sharing.

MojoMotors.com > Vintage1982Benz
10/13/2014 at 14:10

Sorry for the tease. It looks good, don't it?

Vintage1982Benz > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 14:11

Indeed it does. My first car was a MK II and I would love to pick up and restore one some day.

MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:38

pretty solid list.

I'd like to throw a vote in for the first gen Fusion/Milan/MKZ triplets and their cousin the Mazda 6. Solid cars.

360glitch > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 15:46

Because racecar?

 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:47

Having owned several Crown Vics I will say an old cab is not something anyone should ever buy. If it were up to me I would have all old cabs go under the crusher as soon as they are decommissioned. They are so worn out you would have to replace literally everything to have a good car. Not to mention a lot of cabs get into accidents and chances of having a car with a bent frame are pretty high. Cabbies pay the bare minimum to get the car back on the road which means poor frame strengthening job is likely. Also, have you ever seen then interior of a cab? The seats were likely recovered several times using a layer of vinyl. Same goes for the floors. Your chance of finding dried up body fluids somewhere in the car ranks at 100%.

I am still scratching my head trying to figure out how a tan colored rear package shelf and headliner can turn to dark gray from a cab use. Did they have midgets sitting on the package shelf all the time? That space is hardly ever used.

MUSASHI66 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:47

Other than the 300, zero surprises on this list

FCV-8311 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:48

*Checks to see if Panthers are on the list*

Kinja'd!!!

BrianScalabrine > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:51

What about a muscle/sports car?

Jeb_Hoge > MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner
10/13/2014 at 15:52

My Mazda6 has over 143K miles and is still a great driver.

Doctor-G-and-the-wagen > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:53

I've been considering a previous-gen 300 as one of my potential "post college" cars since I like the prospect of RWD and brash American styling, but don't like the Charger's crummy visibility (dat rear pillar!) and don't want the more expensive repairs a BMW or Merc might bring. Glad to see they seem to be reliable.

Jeb_Hoge > BrianScalabrine
10/13/2014 at 15:53

I'd buy a Corvette without worrying about the miles if it had good records and looked like it had been well cared for.

Kevin Rhodes > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 15:55

Most Imprezas do not have turbos. Only the WRX and STi, which are a fraction of Imprezas sold.

MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > Jeb_Hoge
10/13/2014 at 15:55

That's what I like to hear lol. I'm at 88k miles in the Mercury Milan.

You have the 3.0L V6?

Charlie Ford > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:55

The xc90 shouldn't have ever been on this list. Just look into repair costs for things like the failed ac condensers being changed under 100k.

Aaron James > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:55

I'm from the Era that wouldn't touch a car with over 100,000 miles. I just can't get past it.

theshinobi01 > SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie
10/13/2014 at 15:56

The head gasket issue was mostly for the phase 1 SOHC EJ25, aka anything before '99. Mostly caused by incorrect coolant (Subaru was using phosphate based coolant, and not your more atypical glycol based coolant). Between 00-04, the EJ251 demonstrated issues with the head gasket, but after 04, the EJ series engines should have most of their issues sorted out as that engine dates back from the early 90s. Just change your timing belt at 90-100k miles, idler/tensioner pulleys, water pump and your normal routine maintenance and they should last forever.

Pending Approval > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:57

yes to the VW passat. I came so close to hitting 400k miles on mine before I traded it in ( and still got a decent amount for it ) 377k miles on the original motor and tranny? not bad.

PeteRR > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:57

Shove all of these down one spot to make way for the '94 through '98 Cummins-equipped 3/4 and 1 ton pickups. 750, 000 before the recommended engine rebuild.

davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:58

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CALUSA > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:58

Not so sure about that generation Passat though...

Ark > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 15:58

Nobody should ever buy an Accent with any mileage.

Kevin Rhodes > Doctor-G-and-the-wagen
10/13/2014 at 15:59

Just because they last a long time doesn't mean they are reliable. Not the same thing at all. Go back another 15 years and Saabs and Volvos would have topped the list. Both are extremely durable and will go 300K+ with ease. Neither are particularly reliable. Stuff will break with regularity. But fix it and they just keep going, and going, and going.

HiMyNameIsJayAgain > davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com
10/13/2014 at 16:00

The Impreza and Legacy would like a word with you.

Pending Approval > SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie
10/13/2014 at 16:01

never had a problem with mine, 377k no problem. When it died, I went looking for another b5.5 but couldn't find one with low milage.

Pending Approval > CALUSA
10/13/2014 at 16:03

yes! those things are tanks, while you DO have to take care of them, there is no reason why you can't get 250k out of one with a lax matinence plan. Got mine to 377k on the original motor and tranny. ( 1.8t ) even the turbo had over 150k miles on it, and was still pushing 9psi once I traded it in.

HammerheadFistpunch > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:05

I think this article is more accurately - high mileage vehicle that you CAN buy. Though I don't entirely discount your theories about the associations between number for sale and general reliability.

ToastedTires > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:06

Kinda expected to see 99-04 Mustang, and anything with the Chrysler 4.0 inline six. I see a TJ, XJ, or ZJ about every two minutes.

MojoMotors.com > Charlie Ford
10/13/2014 at 16:07

We didn't look into repair costs, but dealers keep selling high mileage XC90s so blame the demand.

RedWhine > BrianScalabrine
10/13/2014 at 16:07

While not the prettiest Mustangs of the bunch, New Edge mustangs rock the time tested 4.6 mod motor. While not a big power house, its the same V8 that damn near every Ford of that era used. So parts and go fast bits are both dirt cheap. Plus with basic maintenance they will run forever. That motor lasted into the first refresh style as well (05-10) if you prefer that body style. Can't speak much on the GM / Mopar side of the fence. But hope that helps a bit.

zimme71 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:08

My last T&C was a '99 that I bought with 111k miles on it for 5k. I drove it for 11 years, selling it to a friend when it had 260k miles on it w/o any issues, other than hitting a deer. I now have a 2010 T&C that I bought with 50k miles on it, and have put 50k miles on it, again with no problems other than the usual maintenance stuff...

MojoMotors.com > ToastedTires
10/13/2014 at 16:09

The Grand Cherokee was sixth in the crossover category.

Jeb_Hoge > MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner
10/13/2014 at 16:10

2.3L...been living with a PCV vacuum leak for quite a while, but that's because I'm being cheap about fixing it. Start saving for front end suspension parts!

MojoMotors.com > HammerheadFistpunch
10/13/2014 at 16:10

The article title on our website was "High mileage cars you can (and should) buy" since we couldn't make up our minds.

clutchshiftington > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:10

I would add Mustang GT to that list somewhere. It can be tough to find a high mileage one that hasn't been abused, but when you do it has the same reliability as a Crown Vic or F150.

HammerheadFistpunch > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:11

fair nuff.

MojoMotors.com > BrianScalabrine
10/13/2014 at 16:12

There weren't enough that qualified for our analysis except for the Mustang. Even then, its average mileage is significantly lower than the other vehicles listed in this article.

Jesse Shaffer > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:14

Only certain Grand Caravans. Diamler-Era automatics don't usually last very long, almost as if by design...

schwartz > upstate ny
10/13/2014 at 16:14

Ditto, driven my previous subaru's through snow up to the middle of the bumper. All good as long as you don't stop in snow that deep.

tapzz > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:15

A time when big V8 engines in an equally big car didn't mean inefficiency, it meant being American.

*cough*

Kinja'd!!!

Curious Goldfish > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:16

What about sports cars? I'd expect to see the likes of Miatas and S2000's on that list.

Histronic > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:17

Kinja'd!!!

Half a million miles for one of these is barely broke in.

No matter how you stack it, no American, European, or Korean SUV can compare to the ruggedness of a Toyota Land Cruiser. Other benefits - after 15 years, these things actually start to appreciate in value.

Boomsticktmo > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:19

What the hell? Why are there no Jeeps listed?

-No one who ever owned a Jeep

Chris_B > Jesse Shaffer
10/13/2014 at 16:20

The automatics do MUCH better is the van is equipped with the optional towing package. It came with a trans cooler, which is critical on these. Ours has about 200k on it, which can't be said for every other DCX minivan owner we know that doesn't have the tow package. The 3.8L engine, though, won't usually make 200k even if well cared for. Changing out ours now as we won't need a minivan in a few years anyway. One and done.

MontegoMan562 is a Capri RS Owner > Jeb_Hoge
10/13/2014 at 16:21

2.3L? Interesting, that one wasn't available in the triplets.

What's gone in your front suspension? I was originally going to take it to 200k miles, but i may move that timeline up because my commute's been cut in half, so it would take a lot longer to get there.

nmalinoski > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:22

What the fuck are you smoking? I own a modern Impreza, and it is not compact by any definition of the word.

Chaos-cascade > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:24

At what point is a vehicle considered high mileage for you? At the company I work at some of our ambulances have 700,000 plus miles on them?

nmalinoski > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 16:24

We'll see how mine goes; I have a 2009 WRX that's sitting at over 101k mi, just recently had some engine and turbo diagnostics, and everything is still peachy and responsive.

ament001 > upstate ny
10/13/2014 at 16:25

Issues? No. Damaging the front end every winter? Yes. Having a front lip that low means I am hitting every chunk of ice in my neighborhood every day during the winter.

nramos33 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:27

I have an Avalon and it's grown on me. It's looks are forgettable, it is easy to lose it in the car park and the handling is numb. But, the V6 gets me moving quickly, it is as smooth as can be on the road, it has been very reliable and while boring, it gets the job done without sacrificing much on power. 0-60 in under 8 seconds isn't revolutionary, but it's enough so that I'm never lacking at a light and can pass easily on the highway.

That said, I still miss my 7 series, but the Avalon is a lot less problematic and what few problems it has are easy to remedy. The Avalon is all the car I need...until the Tesla 3 comes out and then I'm gonna buy my first new car and keep the Avalon as a backup.

totalnewbie > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:27

Themed pictures are an excellent touch.

alan > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:28

the wbody impala is the most overlooked cars on the used car market. i had 2, a 2003 and a 2012 and loved them. not much in the handling department but ride was great and both never gave me a problem except for warped rotors

MojoMotors.com > totalnewbie
10/13/2014 at 16:28

Thanks. We were quite pleased with ourselves.

MojoMotors.com > nramos33
10/13/2014 at 16:30

That newer Avalon is a really nice looking car that's grown a lot of the folks here, too.

MojoMotors.com > Chaos-cascade
10/13/2014 at 16:33

We took the average mileage of a car based on the model years 2002-2012 that dealers are selling on their lots. Obviously there aren't a lot of dealers that see profit to be made a vehicle with 700k on the clock.

Is it a sweet old-school Grumman Olson ambulance?

Kinja'd!!!

duuude > Party-vi
10/13/2014 at 16:34

All of the Imprezas for sale here usually state "new turbo" in the description. I think it's safe to say that those things don't last too long but if you get one with a new turbo then it'll go for another 70-100k. I can't imagine somebody who's in the market for a cheap car will want to shell out cash to foot the gas bill of a turbo model though.

nmalinoski > Stupidru
10/13/2014 at 16:34

Don't you need to drop the engine to change the spark plugs in those H6s?

ToastedTires > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:35

But it's not a crossover?

MojoMotors.com > nmalinoski
10/13/2014 at 16:35

You, sir, are incorrect. The Legacy is Subaru's midsize offering while the Impreza is their compact.

Jesse Shaffer > Chris_B
10/13/2014 at 16:35

My friends just had to unload a 3.8L anniversary edition (whatever that means?) with an unresponsive transmission that a harsh winter didn't really help. They went and bought a Pacific (also, whatever... haha) Do you know how reliable those things are or aren't?

I told him to just buy a black Miata and red one to follow it so they looked like a little train. He told me that I live a ridiculous life that no one understands.

MojoMotors.com > ToastedTires
10/13/2014 at 16:36

Technically it is since it leverages a unibody chassis.

mcbenz > Doctor-G-and-the-wagen
10/13/2014 at 16:36

Its not that bad with a beemer. Anything post E46 is a little more costly in parts just because everything switches over to sensors and electrical OBC read outs. But find a well maintained jewel with the proper maintenance history then consider yourself a winner. Most of them require about 2-3k preventive maintenance off the bat if there was no history from the PO for the major components. E46's are usually more of DIY kind of car and the parts are relatively cheap for a German based car.

nmalinoski > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:39

Then perhaps it's like how American fast food drink sizes are one off from the international counterparts (American small is international medium, medium is large, large doesn't exist, etc); the Impreza may be classified as compact, but it really is not a small car.

Tina Corbett > davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com
10/13/2014 at 16:39

In that case, I submit the 1997-2003 Ford Taurus.

Yeah, I went there.

Kommandante > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:40

Kinja'd!!!

I own one of these, Can confirm it's a great car. It's a damn shame they made it look nothing like a Subaru

Tina Corbett > Shift24
10/13/2014 at 16:40

Another reason is that not too many people take the kiddy-mobile out for a weekly hooning.

300hp30mpgrwdfor30k > SidewaysOnDirt still misses Bowie
10/13/2014 at 16:41

So when these head gaskets go, what's the repair like on that? Doesn't seem like it'd be catastrophic, wouldn't you just get a new head gasket?

MojoMotors.com > nmalinoski
10/13/2014 at 16:41

Ahh, that'll do it. You're correct in your comparison.

sellphones2493 > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:42

Disagree on the XC90. They put the GM Transmission in that thing, and the XC90 is too big and heavy for that tranny to handle. It was put in the old S80, and you could get a decent life out of it with a featherfoot. However, even driving it softly, the old XC90 will most likely chew up transmissions like an Oddysee.

UncleWalty > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:43

Kinja'd!!!

I can almost hear the trolls lunging for their keyboards in response to seeing a VW associated with a high mileage buy recommendation.

Why, the NERVE !!!!clickclackclickityclackclackclack......

Anthony McClinton > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:45

I would stay away from high mileage turbocharged cars. More parts and more things that can go wrong. Plus, good luck finding a stock "Turbo Impreza" aka the WRX. The WRX is one of the most modified vehicles out there.

The base Impreza however if well taken car of, is a great high mileage vehicle.

I'm Abe Froman > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:48

Why did you put up a picture of the Mk5 GTI. NOT a good 100K+ mileage buy. Even as a Golf lover I'll admit that

rodster > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:50

I have a 2006 4runner v6 sport and knocking on the 200k. Great truck with NO issues.

Herr Quattro - Has a 4-Motion > MojoMotors.com
10/13/2014 at 16:51

Haha amateur...

Kinja'd!!!