How many hours can a car run continuously?

[DeLincoln]

Under normal road conditions, an average family sedan can run continuously at a speed of 100 km/h until the fuel in the car's tank is exhausted before it shuts down and stops. Factors determining how far a car can run: The quality of each component determines the lifespan of a car. Therefore, if a car is driven continuously, the number of hours it can run and the distance it can cover are closely related to the engine. Hazards of continuous driving: Prolonged driving keeps the brake fluid temperature at a high level, which can lead to brake failure. A slight mistake could result in severe accidents, so it is not advisable to drive for extended periods.

[SanClara]

I often drive long distances and have gone non-stop for more than ten hours, but that's really not a good idea. Cars are made of metal and also need a break. Continuous engine operation can cause overheating, and the cooling system can't handle it, especially on highways in summer when it's prone to boiling over. Moreover, no matter how large the fuel tank is, it won't last forever. A regular family car can only run about 500-600 kilometers on a full tank, which is roughly six to seven hours. Don't forget that the driver also needs rest—fatigue driving is a serious issue. I usually stop every three to four hours to check the fluids and stretch my legs. Just like people, overusing a car will lead to problems. Extending a vehicle's lifespan requires proper rest.

[DiJoseph]

As someone who works with engines every day, how long a car can run continuously really depends on the engine performance: modern cars are designed to run for over ten to twenty hours without issues, but temperature management and oil condition are key. In high-temperature environments, the cooling fan activates more frequently, and the oil viscosity decreases, leading to part wear over time. Fuel efficiency is also crucial—SUVs consume fuel faster and can only last about seven to eight hours, while hybrid vehicles can go longer. However, I don't recommend non-stop driving because electronic components may overheat and trigger warnings. With proper maintenance, occasionally driving 500 kilometers in one go is fine, but regular stops to check oil and coolant temperature ensure safe long-distance travel.