Andy Campbell’s 1985 Toyota Tercel may seem unassuming at first glance, resembling a relic from the past with its vintage appeal. However, a closer inspection reveals the extraordinary nature of this vehicle. Despite its flawless operation and near-mint condition, the Tercel’s odometer falls short in capturing its true mileage. Displaying 253,070 kilometers, it fails to account for the additional million kilometers the car has traveled.
The staggering total distance covered by Campbell’s Tercel surpasses the journey to the moon three times over or could encircle the Earth 31 times. Documenting this milestone, Campbell commemorated the odometer rollover from 999,999 to 000,000 in September 2017 with photographs stored in his glove compartment as irrefutable evidence.
Purchased in 1990 for $2,500 when it had 125,000 kilometers, the Tercel has served as Campbell’s daily driver, clocking at least 120 kilometers commuting between Wyses Corner, N.S., and Halifax during his working years. Even after retirement, the vehicle remains in use for daily tasks and travels across the Maritimes, including trips to Newfoundland.
While eligible for antique plates, Campbell opts against them to retain the Tercel’s utility for everyday purposes. Refusing to relegate it to a showpiece, he values its practicality, reliability in inclement weather, ease of maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. Campbell’s hands-on approach to upkeep, coupled with regular maintenance routines and diligent undercoating, has preserved the vehicle’s longevity despite the Tercel’s reputation as a “rust bucket.”
In the event of maintenance downtime, Campbell reveals his backup Tercel, a 1986 model, underscoring his dedication to the brand and model. Not driven by a love for cars in general, Campbell’s affinity lies specifically with “his Tercel,” appreciating its functionality and economy. Reflecting on the vehicle’s endurance, Campbell aims to reach two million kilometers, albeit uncertain if he will witness this milestone.
Campbell’s Tercel is not the sole high-mileage survivor in Nova Scotia, as fellow long-haulers like Jim George also boast impressive mileage on their Tercels. Despite the vehicle’s status as a conversation starter and collector’s item, Campbell remains resolute in his ownership, rejecting offers to part with his beloved ride. With strangers often admiring and sharing stories of their own Tercels, Campbell’s dedication to his trusty vehicle stands as a testament to enduring quality and reliability.