How long would a Grand Am GT 2003 last?

[Chziime]

I do not know much about cars (and while I'm new to this forum, I'm guessing this is also a popular way to start posts). My Pontiac has about 120,000 miles on it. I always get oil changes on time, the tires are about a year old, the front tire hub bearings have been replaced a couple times each, the front-right hubcap is a bit bent outward, and... that's all I can think of that is "relevant" right now.

Anyway - soon I would like to go on a 25 hour ride from NJ to CO, then drive back, totaling 3600 miles. Once a year for the past several years, the car has safely taken me on 800 mile drives to MI and back. I guess my question is... what are the key safety and efficiency markers that I should think about? Is there a risk to ~continuous~ driving as opposed to just driving a lot as I already do? And, most importantly, how many miles do these cars last for? As far as I know, the engine and transmission are fine. Money is just an issue, of course, and I don't want to have to get many repairs.

I appreciate any advice!!!

Jason

 

[melsg5]

the smartest thing to do is take it to a local shop for a complete lookover informing them you intend to go on a long trip. Nobody can predict how long a particular car will last, it could go past 200k or something could happen way before that. If you stay on top of maintenance it improves your chance of getting more miles out of the car. Use your owners manual as a guide to what and when things should be checked.

 

[Kevlar]

I've driven quite a few cars a lot of miles (over 200,000). My top two rules for giving engines the best chance for longevity are these;

1. Change the oil and filter every 3,000 miles.

2. Keep the cooling system in top shape. (never let it overheat, if it should overheat, stop it immediately and repair it)

Mel's advice is spot on. Have a trusted mechanic give it a once over with your trip in mind.

I might suggest asking him to pressure test the cooling system while he's at it. Better to find a weak link now than on down the road in the middle of nowhere.

 

[richardgriese]

I'll throw my additional 2 cents in. If you plan to keep the car and you replace some part, put a good quality part in.