US Vehicle Fleet Reaches Record Average Age of 12.8 Years

Aging cars raise concerns over safety, emissions, and long-term costs for consumers

Apr. 20, 2026 at 8:25am

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An extreme close-up photograph showing the intricate, weathered texture of an old car part, conveying the wear and tear of an aging vehicle fleet.The aging of America's vehicle fleet raises concerns about safety, emissions, and long-term ownership costs.NYC Today

The average age of vehicles on U.S. roads has reached a record 12.8 years, according to the latest data from S&P Global Mobility, marking the oldest fleet in American history. This milestone reflects a sustained trend of Americans holding onto their cars and trucks longer, driven by economic pressures, rising new-vehicle prices, and improved vehicle durability.

Why it matters

An aging vehicle fleet presents measurable risks to road safety and environmental quality, as older cars are less likely to have modern crash avoidance systems and more efficient, lower-emission engines. The trend also strains household budgets already impacted by inflation and higher interest rates.

The details

New vehicle prices have risen significantly due to inflation, supply chain constraints, and advanced technologies, while higher interest rates have made auto financing more expensive. At the same time, modern vehicles are built to last longer, with improved corrosion resistance and more reliable powertrains, encouraging owners to keep their cars well beyond the traditional 100,000-mile mark.

  • The average age of vehicles on U.S. roads reached a record 12.8 years in 2025, according to data released in May of that year.
  • The previous record of 12.5 years was set in 2023.

The players

S&P Global Mobility

A leading provider of data and analytics for the automotive industry.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

The U.S. government agency responsible for vehicle safety standards and regulations.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The U.S. government agency responsible for environmental protection and enforcement.

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What’s next

Some states are considering incentives to accelerate fleet turnover, particularly for older, high-emission vehicles, but critics argue these programs often benefit higher-income households.

The takeaway

Unless new vehicle affordability improves or economic conditions shift, the average age of the U.S. vehicle fleet is likely to continue rising, with nearly half of all vehicles on American roads potentially being manufactured before 2015 and lacking key safety and efficiency advances.