* Maintenance: Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and other preventative maintenance significantly extend engine life. Neglecting maintenance will drastically shorten it.
* Driving habits: Aggressive driving, frequent short trips (which don't allow the engine to fully warm up), and towing heavy loads all put extra stress on the engine.
* Environmental conditions: Extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) can affect engine performance and lifespan.
* Quality of fuel and fluids: Using low-quality fuel or improper fluids can damage the engine over time.
* Manufacturing defects: Some engines might have inherent flaws that lead to premature failure.
While some Chevy Prism owners might get 200,000 miles or more with proper care, others might experience engine problems much sooner. There's no guaranteed mileage. It's more accurate to focus on *how well* the car is maintained than a specific mileage target.
