How Long Should An Engine Last?

It’s really difficult or we could say nearly impossible to estimate exactly the number on how long do engines last. Car part longevity, including engine longevity, depends on a lot of different factors. However, it’s nearly, not completely impossible. Therefore, once you know the factors that affect your engine’s lifespan, you’ll be better able to predict its potential longevity.

What Affects Engine Lifespan?

The first factor that affects your car engine lifespan is what it is made from. Car engines are made of several different metals, but some of the most common are iron and aluminum. In fact, some engines are made of the combination of 2 or more metals. Many trucks have engines with iron blocks and aluminum heads. In general, iron-block engines tend to be more durable and last longer than other types of engines because, year after year, iron is strong enough to withstand the incredible heat an engine is capable of producing.

The next factor which we should consider in how long do car engines last is the area where you live. If you live on the hill, your engine wears down more rapidly because you have to pass over rough terrain on a regular basis, your engine has to undergo more stress and will likely not last as long as it would if you were usually driving on flat, smooth roads.

Another factor which affects average engine life is how the vehicle is driven. The harder an engine has to work, the shorter its lifespan tends to be. Other factors should be considered are the tires, your effort for maintaining your car will influence your car performance. If you maintain your car frequently, there is no reason for the long longevity of your car.

Influencing Factors on Automotive Engine Lifetime

1. What’s it made of?

Everyone knows that engines are made of metal, but the type of metal determines durability. Engines are commonly made of aluminum, iron, or a combination of aluminum and iron.

Iron tends to be more durable because it can withstand higher temperatures better over time. Aluminum is substantially lighter, and is often used in parts like the headers, while iron is more commonly found in the engine block.

2. Driving Habits

The degree to which your engine has to work greatly influences lifetime. Rapid acceleration or deceleration, redlining RPMs and towing heavy loads can put excessive stress on an engine, shortening its lifespan.

3. Advancements in Technology

Engines produced now have higher common standards than ever before. They are rigorously tested, built with better materials and have more innovative designs than ever before. These advancements are the result of the EPA and similar regulatory forces around the world setting higher emissions standards.

New standards lead to increased efficiency, reduced emissions and less wear.

It Depends On the Car — and You

In some cases, the length of time you’ll be able to own a car depends on the car itself. Certain models are built better than other cars, which allows them to last longer. But even car models that are notoriously well built may have fatal flaws that develop later in life, such as an expensive engine or transmission issue, making them expensive to own long-term. When you’re buying a new car, it’s hard to know exactly how long it’ll last.

Similarly, you play a huge role in the car’s longevity. It isn’t luck that some 1940s and 1950s classic cars are still on the road: Many of those vehicles were owned by drivers who took great care of them for many years, performing by-the-book oil changes, fixing any issues and routinely servicing them at recommended intervals. The result is that these cars are still driving 60 or 70 years after they were made.

So how long can you expect a car to last? The answer could be infinite, depending on how much money and time you’re willing to spend to keep it running — and depending on just how reliable the car stays as it gets older.

How To Make Your Car Last

The first of these is an extremely important factor because it also protects you when you’re behind the wheel. Choose a vehicle that has the best modern active intelligent safety systems. Features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, parking sensors, cross-traffic alerts, and even driver drowsiness monitoring can help you to avoid accidents.

When you have fewer accidents, your car will be better able to perform. Even when you have car damage repaired, it’s not the same as having avoided that damage in the first place. A car’s frame can be structurally weakened from damage, and there can be unforeseen issues that crop up in the future.

Vehicle Management Systems

Vehicle management systems are an essential tool for extending the life span of your car, but, unfortunately, they’re a tool that many people forego. These systems are like having your car hooked up to a diagnostic health monitor 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They can help you get better fuel economy, analyze your driving habits, including speed and braking force, and even help you to stick to your maintenance schedule. Like safety systems, these are becoming more standard as the years go by.

Maintenance and Service Schedules

Speaking of maintenance schedules, establish one and stick to it. There is absolutely no substitute for regular preventive maintenance, says Cascade Collision, to ensure your car lasts for many years and many miles to come. While no one likes to sit around the shop waiting for their car to be done, it’s far better to spend an hour or so every six months than it is to find yourself without a car for several days due to an unforeseen repair.

Regular oil changes, tire rotations, tune-ups, changing your brake pads, and check-ups can avoid surprise issues by catching them before they become major. They also make your engine run better for longer by keeping it properly lubricated and healthy and can make the car worth more upon resale.

Address the Little Things

When you end up with small things that need to be done, don’t put them off. Whenever you notice an unusual smell, an odd feel, hesitation when you step on the gas pedal, or the like, get your car into the shop. You know the way your car is supposed to feel better than anyone else. When it tells you something’s wrong, listen.

Keep Your Engine Clean

Few people bother to have their engine cleaned, but it’s also an important part of regular maintenance. Get this done once a year, every year. This is because the engine can get fouled with grime, dirt, sludge, and other contaminants as your car runs. That can make your car run hot, cause strain on the systems, and reduce life span. Talk to your mechanic about a good fuel injector cleaner and stop the issues before they start.

Obey the Indicator Lights

Indicator lights exist for a reason. When you see an alert like the check engine light, don’t ignore it for months. Take the car in and get the problem diagnosed and fixed. That enables you to stop small problems from turning into big ones.

Choose a Good Mechanic

Good mechanics are worth their weight in gold. Cars today are complex and involve computers and electronic components that experienced experts should address. Look for those who are certified to work on your car and who will be straightforward with you in all things.