* Maintenance Schedule: Regular oil changes, filter replacements (air, fuel, transmission), coolant flushes, and other scheduled maintenance are crucial. Neglecting these will drastically shorten engine life.
* Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, frequent short trips (which prevent the engine from reaching optimal operating temperature), and towing heavy loads all put extra stress on the engine.
* Environmental Conditions: Extreme heat or cold can accelerate wear and tear.
* Quality of Parts Used: Using low-quality replacement parts during maintenance can lead to premature failure.
It's not uncommon to hear of these engines lasting even longer than 250,000 miles with meticulous care, but 200,000-250,000 miles represents a realistic expectation for a well-maintained example. Beyond that, you're pushing your luck and facing increasing probability of needing major repairs.