Icelandic shepherd Jömundur Ólafsson is proof that good maintenance and the right driving style can turn an ordinary car into a legend. He has driven over 1 million kilometers in his first-generation Skoda Octavia and discovered that the mileage is simply not designed for such a mileage.
Since 2007, Ólafsson has used his Octavia mainly for work - traveling from his home to the sheep farm in Borgarfjörður. The car, which was previously driven by his wife, has quickly become his reliable companion. He says he spent countless hours behind the wheel, traveling all over the island, including the remote Westfjords.
"I had a few cars, but none of them were as easy to maintain and reliable. It wasn't until I started using it as a company car that I realized what a great car it was," he recalls.
The secret to longevity: According to Olafsson, the key to a car's longevity is a combination of a sturdy construction and strict maintenance. He emphasizes that it is extremely important to monitor small problems before they become serious.
His advice for anyone who wants to keep their car for a long time is simple:
Regular maintenance.
Use high-quality oil.
Change the oil every 30,000 kilometers.
Careful driving style, without overloading the engine.
An interesting fact is that his Octavia still has its original engine, gearbox and even clutch. This is especially impressive considering the harsh conditions the car was subjected to – harsh Icelandic climate, gravel roads and transporting sheep.
When his Octavia's mileage reaches 999,999, instead of breaking down, it simply shows six nines. Although the dashboard was not prepared for a seven-digit number, Ólafsson beamed with pride.
In the end, he parted with his legendary car, but remained loyal to the brand by buying a new Skoda Octavia. And the old car will not go to the car morgue. It will be used for mechanics training at a high school in the Icelandic capital, Reykjavik. It is a worthy end for a car that has proven its durability and reliability.