You don't need a new car: New research shows UK vehicles are still going the distance at 18 years old

In most instances, a vehicle’s mileage will increase with its age, so it may be expected that the highest mileage vehicles in the UK would simply be the oldest. However, recent figures released by HiQ Tyres & Autocare suggest otherwise, indicating that vehicles aged 18-19 years old are clocking up the highest mileage on average.

When plotting the average mileage against the age of the vehicles, the results demonstrate a steady incline before peaking at vehicles from 2007-2008, after which point there is a notable decline in the average mileage, suggesting that vehicles dated before 2007 are not driving as far as newer vehicles.

Craig Sprigmore, Retail Director, HiQ Tyres & Autocare said: “The decline in average mileage among vehicles older than 19 years old tells a story- perhaps it’s that those who choose not to drive very far see little use investing large sums of money into a brand new vehicle, or it could be that those with modern-heritage vehicles have a second mode of transportation for daily errands. Whatever the reason, in time we would love to see cars that are 30-years-old continuing to clock up six-figure mileage readings, and we know that this is possible with proper vehicle upkeep.”

Of nearly 60,000 vehicles surveyed, more than 19% had a six-figure odometer reading at the time of their last MOT or service, showing that vehicles can go the distance and continue to perform over time when professionally maintained.

And with the cost of living continuing to put pressure on many families, data from a HiQ Tyres & Autocare study conducted last year raised concerns that vital vehicle maintenance had been skipped by motorists more frequently, with 36% of tyre changes occurring as a result of excessive wear.

Delaying vehicle maintenance can lead to more serious, and more expensive, issues further over time. It would only take a low average yearly mileage of 5,600 miles, over the course of 18 years a vehicle to reach a six-figure odometer reading. But this doesn’t have to be the end of the road. The highest individual mileage reading in the study was a 12-year-old van that had clocked up nearly half a million miles- but, thanks to regular professional maintenance, it remains in use.

“It is impressive that our customers are keeping their vehicles for several decades and clocking up six-figure mileage readings. It is a real testament to what regular professional maintenance and upkeep can do for a vehicle’s lifespan. It just goes to show that a high mileage doesn’t have to mean the end of the road, and that older cars can continue to serve their purpose if properly cared for,” explains Craig.

“At a time when we know many families are battling rising expenses, making a small investment in regular vehicle maintenance can offset larger, more expensive repairs and, indeed, the need to purchase a new vehicle. We’ve seen that 18-year-old cars continue to go the distance, when properly serviced.”

How to go the distance

Reaching six-figure mileage is increasingly achievable with regular servicing and preventative maintenance. Regular servicing, MOTs and simple vehicle health checks can help identify minor issues before they become more costly repairs, while maintaining the correct tyre pressures, checking fluid levels and replacing worn components can all help improve reliability and extend a vehicle's lifespan.

Sprigmore added: "Whether a vehicle has covered 20,000 miles or 200,000, staying on top of routine maintenance is one of the best ways to keep it safe, reliable and performing at its best. Small issues caught early are often much easier, and less expensive, to put right. Every vehicle that comes through our doors tells a story.

"We'd love to hear from drivers across the country who own a vehicle that beats the current record of 488,100 miles². Whether it's a beloved family car, or a trusted work van, we want to hear how you've managed to get the most out of your vehicle."

HiQ Tyres & Autocare operates more than 230 locations nationwide, each offering car servicing, MOT testing, tyres and vehicle maintenance for a wide range of vehicles. Backed by Goodyear, it is renowned for its professional and seamless customer experience.

Drivers who think they have a vehicle capable of beating the current record are invited to join The High-Mile Club by sharing a photo of their odometer on Instagram and tagging @hiqautocare with the hashtag #HiQHighMileClub.

1. Results taken from a survey conducted by HiQ Tyres & Autocare between 2025-26 involving 59,111 vehicles.
2. Vehicle owners that wish to submit a mileage reading to claim the record for the UK’s highest mileage car should post a photo of their mileometer to Instagram and tag @hiqautocare
on Instagram, or HiQ Tyres & Autocare on Facebook with the hashtag #HiQHighMileClub.
3. Defined as being beyond the 1.6mm legal limit.