Guides: the cars that last the most miles
Ranked lists first, then how to buy one without getting burned.
The top fifteen, at a glance
| Rank and model | Mile rating | Reach 250,000 mi | Versus average | Best $ per mile left | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1Toyota Sequoia | 500KMile rating | 42.3% | 7.8× the 5.4% average | $0.28 a mile | 6 usedNewCompare |
| 2Lexus LS | 500KMile rating | 38.8% | 7.2× the 5.4% average | $0.20 a mile | 12 usedNewCompare |
| 3Toyota 4Runner | 500KMile rating | 33.1% | 6.1× the 5.4% average | $0.21 a mile | 33 usedNewCompare |
| 4Ram 3500 | 400KMile rating | 31.9% | 5.9× the 5.4% average | $0.17 a mile | 11 usedNewCompare |
| 5Lexus RX Hybrid | 400KMile rating | 28.9% | 5.4× the 5.4% average | $0.16 a mile | 37 usedNewCompare |
| 6Toyota Tundra | 400KMile rating | 28.2% | 5.2× the 5.4% average | $0.20 a mile | 35 usedNewCompare |
| 7GMC Sierra 3500HD | 400KMile rating | 26.2% | 4.9× the 5.4% average | $0.34 a mile | 2 usedNewCompare |
| 8Toyota Tacoma | 400KMile rating | 25.0% | 4.6× the 5.4% average | $0.15 a mile | 39 usedNewCompare |
| 9Lexus GX | 400KMile rating | 23.3% | 4.3× the 5.4% average | $0.21 a mile | 35 usedNewCompare |
| 10Toyota Avalon | 400KMile rating | 23.2% | 4.3× the 5.4% average | $0.16 a mile | 3 used |
| 11Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 300KMile rating | 20.7% | 3.8× the 5.4% average | $0.24 a mile | 7 usedNewCompare |
| 12Honda Accord Hybrid | 300KMile rating | 18.5% | 3.4× the 5.4% average | $0.14 a mile | 13 usedNewCompare |
| 13Honda HR-V | 300KMile rating | 17.6% | 3.3× the 5.4% average | $0.11 a mile | 47 usedNewCompare |
| 14Lexus IS | 300KMile rating | 17.5% | 3.2× the 5.4% average | $0.14 a mile | 52 usedNewCompare |
| 15Toyota Avalon Hybrid | 300KMile rating | 17.4% | 3.2× the 5.4% average | $0.17 a mile | 1 used |
How to buy a car with 100,000 miles on it
On the right model, 100,000 miles is the halfway mark. Ask for the service records before anything else: regular oil changes, a transmission fluid service and a coolant change matter more than the number on the odometer. A car with 120,000 documented miles beats one with 80,000 and no paperwork.
How to check a VIN history report
A VIN history report shows accidents, ownership transfers, odometer readings and service visits. Run a CARFAX or AutoCheck report before you buy any used vehicle. Look for a clean title, few owners and a steady run of odometer readings with no gaps.
Pre-purchase inspection checklist
Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before money changes hands. It usually costs between $100 and $150. Look for leaks in the engine bay, even wear across all four tires and working electronics, and drive it on the highway to feel for vibration.
How to negotiate a used car price
Look up the market value on CarGurus, KBB and Edmunds before you visit the dealer, and know your walk-away price. Long-lived models hold their value, so expect less room than on an ordinary car, and be ready to leave if the dealer will not meet fair market value.
Tools we recommend
These are the services we point to on every listing page: price research, roadside coverage, an insurance-discount course and the first-week purchases every used car needs.
Partner links — Caboose may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no cost to you. It never affects which cars we list.
Extended warranties: when they are worth it
Third-party extended warranties are rarely worth their cost on a model with this kind of record. Manufacturer certified pre-owned programs offer better coverage at a fair price. If the vehicle is still under its factory warranty, that coverage transfers to you, so check the in-service date.