How many more years can a 10-year-old City be driven?
3 Answers
Depending on the frequency of use by different car owners, some owners use their vehicles more frequently in daily life, accumulating 70,000 to 80,000 kilometers in just a few years. This leads to accelerated wear and tear of car parts, and a 10-year-old vehicle may already meet the mileage standard for guided scrapping. On the other hand, some owners only use their cars for commuting or grocery shopping, with the mileage not even reaching tens of thousands of kilometers over a decade. If the car is well-maintained, it could potentially last up to 20 years. Below is some relevant information: 1. Reasons for scrapping: Most older cars are not retired because the engine is damaged and can no longer run, but rather due to severe oxidation of the exterior paint, increasing minor issues, complicated annual inspections, rising fuel consumption, and certain safety hazards. 2. Relevant regulations: Generally, for household sedans, a 15-year age is a threshold. The latest traffic laws have set relevant regulations regarding the usage period of vehicles. For non-commercial vehicles exceeding 15 years, owners are required to undergo a semi-annual inspection at the vehicle management office. Compared to the previous mandatory scrapping age, as long as the vehicle can pass the annual inspection, it can still be driven legally on the road, provided it meets the local emission standards.
I've worked at the repair shop for many years and seen plenty of Honda City models over 10 years old. Honestly, how long a car can last really depends on maintenance. If the owner sticks to regular oil changes, transmission fluid replacements, with minimal engine wear and no severe body rust, a Japanese car like the City can easily run another 5 to 8 years—even over a decade is common. I serviced an '08 City that's still on the road today with over 200,000 km, performing like a champ. The key is never skipping minor maintenance—regular checks on brake pads, spark plugs, and timely tire replacements when worn. Of course, if there's engine oil leakage or a loose chassis where repair costs exceed the car's value, it's time to replace. Bottom line: don't rush to scrap it; proper care extends lifespan, saving money and ensuring safety.
As an environmental advocate, I believe how many more years a 10-year-old City can be driven depends on policy impacts. The car itself has decent quality with reliable Honda engines, fine for daily commutes, but emission standards have changed. With the strict China 6 norms now, some cities restrict older vehicles with traffic and plate limitations. If new regulations come next year, forced retirement might happen. I suggest owners check their exhaust systems - if the catalytic converter is aging beyond standards, repair or consider switching to new energy vehicles. Avoid short trips and sudden braking to reduce carbon emissions, potentially extending usage by 3-5 years. Prioritize the environment - don't delay too long.
