Originally Posted By: edyvw
Originally Posted By: Leo99
Originally Posted By: HTSS_TR
Originally Posted By: CBR.worm
But at what cost? Any car will make it if you put enough money into it. I have had cars that made it to 200k with very few repairs.
I agree.
At 10 years with 150k miles the value of the car is about 25% or less original MSRP. If yearly repair/maintenance cost is more than 40-50% of the car remaining value then it is not worth it to keep it until 200k miles. If yearly repair/maintenance cost is less than 10-15% then it may be worth the cost to keep it running.
My LS400 is an example, the last 10 years after it crossed 200k miles I spent on average $400-500 a year on maintenance/repair to keep it running. No major components failed, only minor and medium(cost) parts failed. I replaced these failed parts: starter motor, radiator, water pump, timing belt, thermostat, alternator. Major components such as engine, transmission, catalytic converters, mufflers, steering rack ... are original
Some people think that thermostats, alternators, starters, water pumps, and radiators are normal wear items. You know, like brakes and tires.
Water pump and thermostat should be change regardless. There is NO WAY I would drive ANY car pass 120K with same pump and thermostat.
You proved my point. I don't think water pumps or thermostats are wear items. You. They should last the life of the car. If I had to pull them off for some reason, I'd put a new one on as the parts are not expensive but I'm not making a project to change them if they're working fine.