How Many More Years Can a 12-Year-Old Car Be Driven?
2 Answers
A 12-year-old car can generally be driven for about 3 more years. When the normal driving mileage reaches 600,000 kilometers, the country will guide the vehicle to be scrapped. Below is relevant information about vehicle scrapping age limits: Introduction: Vehicle scrapping age refers to a safety inspection system based on the number of seats and usage period during a car's service life. Regulations state that small and micro non-operational passenger vehicles, large non-operational cars, and wheeled special-purpose machinery vehicles have no usage age limit. Latest regulations on vehicle scrapping age: Family 5-seat sedans and 7-seat SUVs, as well as non-operational small and micro vehicles, have no usage age limit. When normal driving mileage reaches 600,000 kilometers, the country will guide the vehicle to be scrapped. After 15 years, the vehicle must undergo inspection twice annually; if it fails inspection, it will be forcibly scrapped. Taxis have a usage limit of 8 years, etc.
Driving a 12-year-old car and determining how many more years it can last largely depends on how well it's maintained. My experience is that a car is like an old friend—treat it well, and it will stay with you for a long time. Regular maintenance is crucial, such as checking the engine oil, brake pads, and tire wear every six months. These small tasks can prevent major issues. The car's history is also key—if the previous owner neglected it, hidden problems may arise. But if it's been well maintained, driving it for another 5-10 years isn’t uncommon. However, don’t overlook the mileage. For example, a taxi might still run fine at 300,000 km, but a family car exceeding 150,000 km requires extra attention. I recommend a professional inspection every year to assess the engine and transmission system. If repair costs exceed 10% of your annual income, it might be time to consider a replacement. Safety comes first—older cars have a higher risk of electronic component failures, especially in the braking system, where even minor issues can lead to accidents. In short, prioritize regular maintenance, don’t wait for major repairs to regret neglect, and remember—your car’s lifespan is in your hands.
