Can a Car Over 10 Years Old Still Be Driven?
3 Answers
As long as a car over 10 years old is in good condition with proper safety performance, meets emission standards, and passes annual inspections, it can continue to be driven normally. Typically, private passenger vehicles do not have a mandatory retirement age. According to road traffic regulations, small and micro non-commercial passenger vehicles must undergo inspection every 2 years within the first 6 years; vehicles over 6 years old require annual inspections; and vehicles over 15 years old must be inspected every 6 months. Service life limits for various motor vehicles: Small and micro taxi passenger vehicles have a retirement age of 8 years. Medium-sized taxi passenger vehicles have a retirement age of 10 years. Large taxi passenger vehicles have a retirement age of 12 years. Public transit passenger vehicles have a retirement age of 13 years. Public transit passenger vehicles have a retirement age of 15 years. Medium and large non-commercial passenger vehicles (excluding large sedans) have a retirement age of 20 years.
Of course it can still be driven! I think my old Toyota has been running quite steadily for 12 years. The key is to keep up with regular maintenance, otherwise aging parts can easily cause problems. For example, an old engine might emit some smoke or have increased fuel consumption; transmission fluid needs to be changed regularly, or gear shifts might become rough; if the brake system is rusty or the pads are worn, it can be dangerous in emergencies; if the suspension is damaged, the ride becomes bumpy and uncomfortable. Electrical failures are also common, with lights often not working or the AC not cooling. I do a simple self-check every month and take it to the shop for a comprehensive inspection every quarter—it doesn’t cost much but ensures safety. Remember to drive relaxed and avoid speeding too much, as older cars might lack some power. Overall, the car’s age isn’t a big issue; maintaining good habits allows it to last long, saving both hassle and money. I’m not even in a hurry to buy a new car.
To be honest, my used Honda has been running for 11 years, mainly for its cost-effectiveness. The insurance is cheap, taxes are low, and maintenance isn't expensive—just don't abuse it. Before driving, it's essential to develop a habit of checking: look for rust on the chassis, check if the tire wear is severe, and listen for any unusual engine sounds. A leak discovered during a friend's inspection was fixed promptly. It drives fine for daily use, though acceleration is a bit slow, but sufficient for commuting. The fuel consumption is a bit high, but I change the oil and filter during each service and learned to adjust things myself to save some money. The money saved from driving an old car long-term can be invested elsewhere, just don't expect it to be as quiet and comfortable as a new car. The key is not to slack off—address any issues as soon as they arise.
