It's no secret that car technologies are advancing at a rapid pace. With so much improvement across most vehicles, drivers are able to hang on to their rides for longer. A recent study from Polk found that the average age of light vehicles in the U.S. is rising - in fact, the national average has reached a record high of 11.4 years.
"Cars are just lasting longer," Polk vice president Mark Seng told The Detroit Free Press.
Improved production techniques and technologies may be contributing to the long life of vehicles, but that's not the only reason motorists are keeping their cars. AutoBlog reports that many drivers want to avoid monthly payments or debt that goes along with purchasing a new vehicle, especially with the future of the economy still in doubt. Drivers also don't see the need to break the bank for a vehicle that is similar in quality to their existing used models.
Another reason cars are lasting longer is because drivers are taking better care of them. By sticking to scheduled maintenance, motorists are keeping used vehicles in top condition. Even the need for auto repair isn't a deal-breaker anymore, as they can easily find an auto repair franchise that can fix up a car quickly and affordably.