Can a 20-year-old car still be transferred?
2 Answers
Private cars over 20 years old can still be transferred if they pass inspection and have complete documentation. Below are specific details on transfer considerations: Motor Vehicle Registration Certificate: The motor vehicle registration certificate is the legal proof of vehicle ownership. Pay special attention to the embossed number, engine number, and registration date on the certificate. If there are signs of alteration on the seller's certificate or if it does not match the actual information of the used vehicle, the vehicle may have issues. Traffic Violation Records: Check the vehicle's traffic violation records thoroughly. Verify if there are any outstanding violations and ensure the compulsory traffic insurance is still valid. Only vehicles with no outstanding violations and valid compulsory insurance can be transferred. Original Vehicle Purchase Tax Payment Receipt: Before proceeding with the transfer process for a used car, always check the original vehicle purchase tax payment status. Confirming the tax payment status beforehand can help avoid unnecessary additional expenses.
I've recently handled several transfers of older vehicles. In theory, a 20-year-old car can be transferred, but the key factors are its current condition and local regulations. In China, there's no absolute age limit for vehicles. As long as a car over 15 years old passes two annual inspections each year and clears the safety inspection by the DMV before transfer, it's eligible. This means you'll need to ensure the engine, braking system, and chassis are functioning properly with no record of major accidents. Regulations vary by city – metropolises like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen have strict emission requirements. If the emission standard is below China IV, the transfer might be blocked. I recommend checking the local emission standard restrictions at your DMV first, or investing in a comprehensive vehicle inspection beforehand. Maintenance costs for older cars after transfer can be steep, with parts replacement often costing thousands, so weigh whether it's worth it. In summary, the transfer is possible if all conditions are met, but it's best to hire a professional agent to save time and effort.
