How damaging is it to put 1200 miles on your car?

Question

Well, here is a better question. I live in DC, and I am driving to Atlanta for vacation. Should I rent a car or drive my own 2005 Ford Focus? The car already has about 65,000 miles on it already, will the 1200 mile drive put damage on my car? Please keep in mind that I already commute 40 miles back and forth from work everyday as well. I always get a oil change on time, and its in good shape. What do you all think cost wise?

Answer 1

Can't say about the cost because of the gas, but you should have no problems with that car. It sounds like you take good care of it, so I would have no problem taking the trip.

Answer 2

Highway miles like that aren't too bad on your car, I would definitely change my oil before the trip, though. Is the gas consumption of your Focus better than the cost of a plane/ train ticket to Atlanta + rental car? Is the loss of time driving compared to flying worth it? If so, I say go for it!

Answer 3

Unless you have a lease (where miles cost you if you go over) then just drive your car.

Make sure all fluids are correct, and check tire pressure, brakes, etc.

Why spend money on a rental when you are better off putting that money to new tires, etc.

Answer 4

Highway miles are much easier on your car than stop and go city traffic. If you only do this once a year or so, you might as well take your own car. With all the fees and hidden (insurance) fees, your rental option would be more expensive.

On the other hand, you typically get roadside assistance with a rental, which means you have less worries in case your car breaks down. Do you have AAA coverage?

Answer 5

If your vehicle has been reliable so far, I'd drive it.  If you have reason to believe that your car might have problems making the trip, rent.  You can generally rent a car for $250 or so for a week and many companies will include mileage.  Make sure it's allowed to drive it out of state and check if your vehicle insurance covers damage to rental vehicles.  Mine does and I can avoid ridiculous rental insurance fees.  Just call your agent and they can check your policy.

40 miles each way comes out to 16,000 miles a year for work.  If your car is running well for this commute, there's no reason to believe it will have a problem cruising on vacation.  An additional 1200 miles won't be all that bad.