Oil never changed in 122k miles

[why?]

Originally Posted by nookandcrannycar

You're right. He (your uncle) has CHOSEN not to care if he gets the maximum value (cost per mile) out of his cars. If he has always done this, then it is likely not an issue of affordability. It boils down to what is in a person's nature. I COULD do what your uncle does, but I WOULDN'T. I feel compelled to get the maximum value out of a car, and I know people of greater means who take this attitude to a much greater extreme than I do. Your uncle likely feels as though he is getting maximum utility because he is doing what he WANTS to do.

my uncle is just strange.

Most people with money stay that way by not spending it. a new car is a lot more expensive than taking care of the one you have.