Can a family car be reported as out of service if not used for a long time?
2 Answers
Family cars can be reported as out of service if not used for a long time, with a maximum of 4 months per year allowed. Below is a brief introduction about saloon cars: 1. Definition: A saloon car (saloon-car) refers to a vehicle designed to transport passengers and their personal belongings, with seats arranged between two axles. Including the driver, the maximum number of seats does not exceed nine. Apart from the passenger compartment, saloon cars have visibly distinct front and rear sections in appearance. Therefore, the engine compartment, passenger compartment, and luggage compartment can be clearly distinguished from the exterior (in some regions, this body style is classified as a three-box design). 2. Alternative names: Saloon cars specifically refer to small vehicles distinguished from trucks, pickups, SUVs, buses, and minibuses, commonly known as "sedans." In Hong Kong, saloon cars are also referred to as private cars.
I've helped a friend with a similar situation before. It's indeed possible to report a car as out of service if it won't be used for a long time, which means applying for a suspension of operation at the vehicle management office. The process is quite simple: bring the vehicle documents and ID card to the local vehicle management office, fill out a form, and apply for suspension. Reporting the car as out of service can save you some money, such as possible reductions or suspensions in compulsory traffic insurance and vehicle and vessel tax, saving hundreds to over a thousand annually. However, vehicle maintenance is crucial; prolonged inactivity can lead to battery drain, tire deformation, or rust. I recommend conducting a full vehicle inspection before reporting it as out of service, disconnecting the battery, and parking it in a cool, dry place. When you want to reuse the car, you'll need to cancel the suspension, and they might inspect the vehicle's condition before allowing it back on the road. Overall, it's a good option, especially for old family cars that aren't in use. My friend saved on taxes by suspending the car for a year, though it took some time to get it road-ready again, but safety wasn't compromised.
