June 12, 2019—It's pretty much a yawn these days to have a 200,000-mile odometer roll into a shop. Even car owners who pay marginal attention to vehicle maintenance can reach the double-century mark.
An article over at Digital Trends takes a look at the technology that's helping modern cars last longer and longer.
Though not universally applied, DT credits wider use of timing chains for engine longevity. That's also one reason why maintenance intervals have gotten longer.
The article also points to improved, automated assembly and manufacturing. The materials are better, too: "With the need for better fuel efficiency, manufacturers are forced to use thinner and thinner metal to cut down on weight. Advancements in anti-corrosion technology have made this possible – and prevents your car from rusting away within 10 years," the article says.
There's also computer-controlled systems in the vehicle, which is just about everything in a late-model. That monitors things from fuel-air mixture to tire pressure.
DT also highlights the advances in motor oil technology, as well as the additives that go into it. Wider use of synthetics helps to protect engines and increases oil change intervals.
The takeaway, however, is that regular maintenance is still the key to a comfortable ride at high mileage. Oils and fluids still need changing at some point. It's all right there in the owner's manual.
