Mechanic gives brutally honest answer after being asked which cars can reach 400,000 miles

When it comes to hitting 400,000 miles, even the most reliable cars and the most durable vehicles face a serious test of endurance.

Many drivers are thrilled when their odometer rolls past 200,000, but doubling that is a different league entirely.

To find out which vehicles can realistically make it that far without major engine or transmission replacements, auto expert Chris Pyle from JustAnswer shared his perspective.

Not only did he give his take on which cars have what it takes to stay alive for that long, but he also gave tips on how to make your vehicle as durable as possible.

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Toyota leads the way in terms of the most reliable cars

According to Pyle, almost any car can technically reach 400,000 miles.

The caveat, of course, is that only a select few can do it on their original engine and transmission.

“All cars can get to 400,000 and more, but many will require some power plant changes,” he explained.

The key difference comes down to maintenance, driving habits, and environmental conditions.

In other words, even the most durable vehicles won’t last unless they’re treated with care.

Among the standouts, Toyota leads the way.

Pyle listed the Avalon, Tacoma, Sienna, and Sequoia as models that can survive the long haul, reflecting the brand’s reputation for reliability.

Just take a look at this man’s Toyota Tacoma, which was driven for 1.6 million miles before being returned to the dealer.

Or this 1985 Toyota Tercel, which was driven so much that each mile only cost the owner $0.003.

Honda also earns praise, with the Accord, Civic, Pilot, and Odyssey all making the cut, thanks to their proven track record.

This man trusted Honda so much that he even bought a used Honda Insight with close to a million miles on the odometer, believing that he could get more value from the car.

For American options, Ford’s F-150 and Expedition top the list, while Subaru’s Outback represents the all-wheel drive camp.

Surprisingly, Hyundai’s Elantra also earned a mention among the most reliable cars, showing how far the Korean brand has come in recent years.

In fact, when a medical courier put over a million miles on her Elantra in just five years, Hyundai sent her a special gift after verifying the feat.

Don’t expect to hit 400,000 miles without at least minor problems

Of course, reaching 400,000 miles is never glamorous.

Pyle warned that drivers should expect sloppy shifting, oil burning, extra engine noise, and declining fuel economy as part of the deal.

Diesel vehicles often fare better in terms of longevity, but diesel cars themselves may also be on their way out within the next decade, at least according to a Toyota exec.

But the real deciding factor when it comes to the most durable vehicles is maintenance.

That means oil and filter changes on schedule, transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, coolant flushes every 60,000 to 100,000, and brake fluid swaps every few years.

Neglecting these essentials will cut a car’s lifespan short, no matter how bulletproof its reputation.

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