* Maintenance: Regular and proper maintenance significantly extends a car's lifespan. Neglecting oil changes, repairs, and inspections will drastically shorten it.
* Driving conditions: Harsh climates (extreme heat or cold), rough roads, and frequent off-roading put more stress on the vehicle and reduce its lifespan.
* Driving habits: Aggressive driving, frequent hard braking and acceleration, and excessive idling wear down components faster.
* Body condition: Rust and significant collision damage can compromise structural integrity and shorten a car's life.
* Technological advancements: Modern cars often have more complex electronic systems that can become expensive to repair as they age. Older, simpler cars can sometimes last longer due to fewer complex systems to fail.
While some cars might last 20 years or even longer with meticulous care, others might only last 10 years or less due to neglect or harsh conditions. A reasonable estimate for a well-maintained car might be 15-20 years, but this is a broad range, and many factors influence the actual lifespan. It's more accurate to think about a car's useful life, which is the point where repairs become excessively costly compared to the car's value.
