[sleepyguy]

The only time I have ever purchased a brand new vehicle was in 1987 (Mustang GT), 2000 (4Runner). Still have both and drive the 4Runner regularly. Every other vehicle (2007 Avalon, 2010 Venza, 2006 Lexus IS350) was purchased used and all are daily drivers. Since the 4Runner, my family only drives Toyota and that is a big part of why I can keep a vehicle for 350-500k. Most of the driving is highway miles, so that also helps.

I service my own vehicles and do a lot of preventative maintenance and inspect the condition of my vehicles regularly, it's become a hobby since I enjoy working on them. I adhere to a strict schedule of maintenance and inspection. Just flushing and filling fluids (Brake System, Transmission, Power steering, Rear Differential, Coolant and Oil) can greatly extend the life of the power train. I have never had a break down where I needed to call a tow truck, Each vehicle has a small jump pack in the trunk, alternators, batteries can be tested for signs of degradation, why wait until they fail, replacing worn parts before they cause further damage. I always try to rebuild the OEM part since it is of higher quality then the replacements, like an alternator or starter. If I do need to get a replacement, Rockauto carries many OEM parts. I just replaced the original water pump on the Avalon, it had 160k miles on it. The 4Runner has approx 350k miles on it and many of the parts (alternator, starter, etc are original.