You have a better chance of longer life if you maintain the antenna. It's pretty easy. Extend the antenna mast (key on and radio on), spray a rag with WD40, wipe off all dirt from the mast (mostly black gunk), cycle the antenna mast a time or two (turn off key or radio), and repeat until no more black gunk comes up with the antenna. WD40 works best in freezing or very wet climates, spray silicon works best in non freezing arid areas.
The mast isn't hard to change, even if you have to take the scroll cover off to remove broken pieces. The main reason that the mast whip breads is from binding and that is usually from lack of lubrication. It can also be from a bent antenna.
Do the antenna maintenance about twice a year and the mast will last a long time.
