16:29 27-04-2026

The cars Americans keep the longest

Research suggests that only a small percentage of car owners in the United States keep a vehicle for more than 15 years. On average, that figure is about 6.1%. The cars that reach this point usually combine strong reliability, low ownership costs and solid residual values. The models below are the ones that stand out.

No. 1. Toyota Highlander

This midsize SUV leads the list of vehicles most often kept by the same owner for a long period. According to the data, 12.4% of Toyota Highlander owners keep driving the vehicle for more than 15 years. Notably, 12.7% of examples also pass the 250,000-mile mark, or roughly 400,000 kilometers. The Highlander’s advantages include strong residual value and relatively low running costs.

No. 2. Toyota Tacoma

Toyota pickups have long had a reputation as reliable, durable workhorses, with the Tacoma especially popular. The figures show that almost one in ten drivers, or 11.6%, continues to use the vehicle for more than 15 years. It is also one of the rare models where a large share of vehicles reaches 250,000 miles, with the probability put at an impressive 25.3%.

No. 3. Honda CR-V

The compact CR-V crossover has ranked highly in sales charts for years and remains popular thanks to its accessible pricing and strong reliability. Although the share of CR-Vs kept by their first owner for more than 15 years is lower than that of the leaders, at 10.7%, the model remains in demand. It is worth noting that not every vehicle can cover more than 250,000 miles, but the CR-V manages it in 10.6% of cases.

No. 4. Toyota 4Runner

This model stands out for its off-road ability and robust body construction. That is why many drivers value its dependability and its ability to serve for many years. The data shows that 9.4% of 4Runner vehicles remain with their original owners even after 15 years of service. Its longevity figure is also very high: 32.9% of vehicles cross the 250,000-mile threshold. At the same time, the 4Runner belongs to a more expensive segment of the market from the outset, which is reflected in its initial purchase price.

No. 5. Toyota Corolla

One of Toyota’s most widespread sedans has proved especially popular with American drivers because of its value for money. The shorter life cycle of many vehicles does not really apply to the Corolla: 8.9% of owners drive the same example for more than 15 years. Its popularity is supported by low fuel consumption and modest operating costs, making the Corolla an attractive buy even on the used market.

No. 6. Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 is another successful Toyota model. With balanced styling, decent capability and acceptable fuel economy, this compact crossover is often chosen by middle-class families. Even so, only 8.7% of owners keep it in continuous use for more than 15 years.

No. 7. Toyota Camry

The Camry has traditionally been one of America’s best-selling cars. The model is known for high build quality and consistent engine operation. As a result, around 8.5% of owners remain loyal to their cars for more than 15 years. Another important factor behind the Camry’s popularity is its relatively low maintenance and repair costs.

No. 8. Honda Accord

The Accord has long been regarded as a reliable car that has earned the trust of millions of buyers. The share still with the original owner after a decade and a half is a little more modest, at 7.2%, but 250,000 miles is a realistic target for the model. Its strengths include a low breakdown rate and moderate maintenance demands.

No. 9. Honda Civic

Another achievement of the Japanese car industry is the compact urban Honda Civic. The model is widely used in the United States thanks to its affordability and solid build quality. Despite its popularity among younger drivers, only a small group, 6.7%, continues to use the first car they bought for more than 15 years. Even so, its durable construction and comparatively low ownership costs make the Civic a sensible investment.

No. 10. Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The full-size Chevrolet Silverado pickup rounds out the top ten vehicles for length of ownership. Only 6% of this truck family remain with their first owners after 15 years of use. Still, strong durability, a tough body and decent residual value help the model remain relevant on the market even after a long period of service.