How Long Until a Car is Scrapped?
4 Answers
How long until a car is scrapped depends on its specific usage. Scrapping period for non-commercial vehicles: The regulation on the service life of non-commercial cars has been abolished, while the mileage limit for private cars to be guided for scrapping is set at 600,000 kilometers. They are exempt from inspection for the first 6 years, inspected annually from 6 to 15 years, and inspected twice a year after 15 years. As long as the vehicle passes the annual inspection, it can continue to be driven on the road. Scrapping period for commercial vehicles: Small and mini taxi passenger cars have a service life of 8 years; tourist and highway passenger vehicles (large and medium-sized) have a service life of 15 years; non-commercial large and medium-sized vehicles have a service life of 20 years; mini trucks have a service life of 12 years; heavy, medium, and light trucks have a service life of 15 years.
Let me discuss this issue from the perspective of China's automotive policies. I know there was a mandatory 15-year scrapping regulation in the early days, but after 2013, the policy was adjusted to a guided scrapping standard, mainly based on mileage reaching 600,000 kilometers or older vehicles failing annual inspections. The specific scrapping time is affected by regional differences, as different city vehicle management offices have varying requirements; if the vehicle condition is good, its use can be extended, such as well-maintained cars potentially lasting 20 years without issues. Older vehicles have higher emissions and create greater environmental pressure, so the government encourages updates with subsidies for new car purchases. It is recommended that car owners regularly inspect their vehicles and check local regulations to avoid illegal driving.
I've driven quite a few cars, and I believe the lifespan of a small car largely depends on how you use and maintain it. With proper maintenance—regular oil changes, brake pad replacements, and periodic check-ups—a car can last up to 800,000 kilometers or even 15 to 20 years. However, if driving habits are poor, such as frequent stop-and-go in congested city traffic or long-distance driving under intense conditions, the car may start having issues and require scrapping after just five or six years. I've seen well-maintained vintage cars that remain functional even after 30 years. That said, as repair costs increase—like fixing an aging engine or electrical system—it might be more economical to replace the car rather than repair it. In short, daily maintenance is key; never overlook minor issues.
From an economic perspective, a car's residual value plummets as it ages. The first five years see rapid depreciation, leaving little value; after 10 years, it becomes nearly unsellable in the used car market while maintenance costs rise. New cars incur high purchase taxes, whereas older vehicles have cheaper insurance but potentially higher fuel consumption. For instance, keeping a 12-year-old car until scrapping may be less economical than selling it earlier and buying anew. Long-term ownership saves on replacement costs, but maintenance expenses surge beyond 150,000 kilometers. The tipping point lies in assessing repair worthiness: if repair costs exceed half the residual value, scrapping and upgrading becomes the rational choice, with potential subsidies available from an environmental standpoint.
