If you think you're staying ahead of the game by trading in your car every three to five years, here's a secret: Many of today's cars last for 200,000 miles or more with few if any major repairs, if properly cared for. And holding on to a car long after the payments are through can save you $30,000 or more.

Thanks to advances in motor oil, engine technology, and rustproofing among other things, today’s cars are more reliable than ever and thousands of our readers are benefitting. Those cars run the gamut of the automotive spectrum, from small sedans to SUVs and pickups. Still, more motorists could be saving money by hanging on to their cars.

Here's how to get your car into the 200K Club:


Buy a reliable, safe car

Any vehicle can reach 200,000 miles if you're willing to keep replacing parts. If you want to get there with a minimum number of visits to the repair shop, buy a car with a good track record.

For starters, see Pick a car for the long run. To dig deeper, check out the comprehensive reliability ratings (available to subscribers).

Buy a car that has performed well in government and insurance-industry safety tests and has the latest safety equipment, like electronic stability control and curtain air bags. If you're going to live with a vehicle for a long time, you will want it to provide maximum safety protection.


Has your car lasted 200,000 miles or more?

Tell us about it, give us your tips for automotive longevity.