How long can a VCR (VHS Player) last?

These things can really last almost forever. I own an FM radio with real tubes in it that was built in 1942, and that thing still works.

I also have a VHS player somewhere from the mid-1980s, I think it would work if I tried. Some self-recorded tapes are also around, maybe I'll check my attics at christmas (2017).

Just take care when storing vintage electronics, they don't like cold and moisture. But if you store them properly, 40 to 50 years they should stand. And TAKE OUT THE BATTERIES from battery-powered devices, they contain corrosive substances, and when they leak, the device is gone.

Some of them seem to outlast their expected lifetimes by a wide margin.

Sanyo products aren't known for that.

The best explanation I can offer is "lucky exception".

When they are well care for, in a house with not to much dust those things seem to last and last.... And even in case they brake you can still find some at Goodwill for about $10 with a 1 week warranty...

It's going to vary, but no, they don't last forever because the belts will react with air and either slip or break; or the nylon or plastic gears will wear down.

I think I got 15 years of service from my Mitsubishi VHS player. That's sad. The two VCRs I've had since don't have the useful features that that Mitsubishi had.

Apparently forever lol, unless the heads go really bad due to serious wear or seriously misaligned, -which can be re-aligned-, they can go on like for ever and ever. 🙂