How many kilometers can a car generally run before being scrapped?
3 Answers
Generally, a car can run 600,000 kilometers before being scrapped. If the car is over 15 years old but has not reached 600,000 kilometers, it needs to undergo annual inspections twice a year, and if it fails the inspection, it will be forcibly scrapped. If the car exceeds 600,000 kilometers but still meets the conditions for use, it needs to undergo annual inspections four times a year. Private cars, including 5-seat sedans and 7-seat SUVs, have no usage time limit if they are non-commercial small or micro vehicles. However, once the mileage reaches 600,000 kilometers, the state will guide the owner to scrap the vehicle. Taxis have a usage time limit of 8 years, after which they will be forcibly scrapped. Medium-sized passenger taxis have a usage time limit of 10 years, after which they will be forcibly scrapped. Micro trucks have a usage time limit of 12 years, after which they will be forcibly scrapped. The consequences of not scrapping a car when it reaches the end of its lifespan include affecting the renewal of the driver's license or annual inspection. Driving a car that has not passed the inspection may result in fines and revocation of the driver's license. The car will be forcibly scrapped, and the owner will bear the cost.
Many people are curious about how many kilometers a car can drive before it's scrapped, but it actually depends on the overall condition of the vehicle, not just the mileage. Typically, a car may enter the scrapping phase after running 150,000 to 300,000 kilometers, but with good maintenance, it can last even longer. For instance, the engine, being the core component, can suffer severe wear after prolonged use. Regular oil changes and spark plug inspections can significantly extend its lifespan. The transmission system is also prone to aging; by the time it hits 200,000 kilometers, the chassis and suspension might become loose, affecting driving safety. I've seen some older cars still running strong at 400,000 kilometers, with the key being frequent comprehensive inspections. Don't just focus on the odometer—consider the car's condition and maintenance records to decide if it's time for a replacement.
From an economic perspective, keeping a car running for too long leads to soaring maintenance costs, making early scrapping a wiser choice. Generally, after reaching around 150,000 kilometers, minor issues become frequent—such as frequent tire replacements or battery problems—with single repair bills often ranging from hundreds to thousands. If cumulative repair expenses exceed the market value of the used car, it's best to scrap it decisively. A new car's down payment is cost-effective and fuel-efficient, whereas older cars consume more fuel, making prolonged use unworthy. Additionally, environmental policies encourage scrapping high-pollution vehicles, and the subsidies for replacements are appealing. The key is to crunch the numbers clearly and avoid wasting money due to emotional attachment.
