Cars That Reach 200,000 Miles (and What Gets Overlooked)

The show’s tech tip quiz answer was the timing belt (especially the “second” timing belt interval). Many people remember to replace it the first time, then forget it later as the miles stack up. If it breaks on an interference engine, it can turn a good-running vehicle into a major engine repair instantly.

A timing belt has a scheduled replacement by mileage and also by time, because it’s a wear item. A timing chain usually doesn’t have a set interval, but noises like rattling or ticking can be warning signs you shouldn’t ignore. Either way, the episode stresses handling it early before it becomes catastrophic.

The episode points out that timing belts are rubber-based and contamination can shorten their life. If oil gets into the belt area, it can break down materials and reduce durability. If you’ve got leaks up front, don’t just ignore them—fix the leak and make sure the belt is still safe.

One caller with a high-mileage Mustang credited consistent oil changes and staying on top of basic fluids. The show also hints at something else that helps: noticing small issues early so they don’t turn into big repairs later. Long-term ownership is usually a bunch of smart, boring decisions done consistently.

The show’s quick checklist was simple: get fuel and groceries early, avoid driving if you can, and make sure you have a safe way to stay warm. If you do have to drive, let ABS do its job under hard braking and don’t panic when you feel the pedal pulsing. And don’t run engines or generators in enclosed spaces—carbon monoxide is a serious risk.

In the episode, Aaron and Jamie discuss how price, demand, and operating costs all play into it. Dealers are paying to keep inventory sitting—floorplan costs, insurance, and the value of the lot space. That’s why slow movers may get discounted, traded to other dealers, moved into loaner fleets, or sent to auction.

The show describes crushing as a “last resort” idea to avoid damaging the brand by dumping new cars at rock-bottom prices. The core point is that manufacturers and dealers protect pricing and brand perception. Whether it’s common or not, the lesson for shoppers is the same: aging inventory creates pressure to move the vehicle.

If a vehicle has been sitting a long time, that can be leverage—because it’s costing the dealer money every day it stays there. The show recommends using that information when negotiating, especially if you don’t mind owning a vehicle that may depreciate faster. You’re basically turning the dealer’s problem into your bargaining power.

The advice was to document when it happens, how often, and under what conditions—because dealers sometimes can’t replicate the issue on demand. If it’s under warranty or extended coverage, keep every repair order and note every visit. The show also suggests trying a different dealership if the first one can’t find it.

The episode recommends using the NHTSA website VIN lookup (and having your VIN ready) to see what applies to your vehicle. A recall is typically handled at no cost, while a TSB is more of a “known issue / recommended fix” and can still cost you money. You can also call the dealership and ask them to run your VIN for active campaigns and updates.