Proper maintenance is key to helping a vehicle reach 200,000 miles, according to Consumer Reports. The magazine recommends the following steps to extend a vehicle’s life:

• Follow the maintenance schedule. Refer to your owner’s manual and make needed repairs promptly.
• Use the recommended fluids. Choose the oil, transmission fluid, and other fluids specified by the manufacturer.
• Check under the hood regularly. Listen for unusual sounds, check for odd smells, and inspect hoses and belts for fraying, cracks, or bulges. A vehicle service manual, available at many auto parts stores or dealerships, can also be helpful.
• Keep the vehicle clean inside and out. Regular cleaning can help prevent premature rust, while vacuuming removes sand and grit that can wear down carpeting.
• Choose a safe, reliable vehicle. Buying a vehicle with up-to-date safety equipment can help you feel more comfortable keeping it for the long haul.

At the time of the report, Consumer Reports also identified vehicles it considered more or less likely to reach 200,000 miles based on its data. All models on its “Good Bets” list came from Honda or Toyota, including Toyota’s Lexus brand. The “Bad Bets” list included several European models and vehicles from Nissan and its Infiniti brand.

Good Bets

• Honda Civic
• Honda CR-V
• Honda Element
• Lexus ES
• Lexus LS
• Toyota 4Runner
• Toyota Highlander
• Toyota Land Cruiser
• Toyota Prius
• Toyota RAV4

Bad Bets

• BMW 7 Series
• Infiniti QX56
• Jaguar X-Type
• V8-powered Mercedes-Benz M-Class
• Mercedes-Benz SL
• Nissan Armada
• Nissan Titan
• Volkswagen Touareg
• V6-powered Volvo XC90