How many more years can a 15-year-old car be driven?

[VanGavin]

Currently, there is no mandatory scrapping period for household vehicles. Here are the relevant details: 1. Regulations: Small vehicles require an inspection every two years within the first six years without the need for an on-site check. For vehicles older than six years, an annual inspection is required. Vehicles older than 15 years must undergo an inspection every six months. Theoretically, as long as the vehicle passes the inspection, it can continue to be driven. 2. Considerations: For a car that has been driven for 15 years, many rubber components, wiring, and pipelines may show signs of aging. Many vehicles may experience oil leakage due to aging valve cover gaskets, which can be resolved by replacing them. Additionally, the stabilizer bar and tie rod ends are prone to aging over time, which can lead to unusual noises.

[KyleRose]

I've always believed how long a 15-year-old car can keep running largely depends on how you maintain it. I've driven many older cars, and their lifespan is determined by routine upkeep—things like whether engine oil is changed regularly or how badly the brake system is worn down, which directly impact safety and longevity. If you keep driving without inspections, parts deteriorate quickly, and the car might only last another year or two before being scrapped. But with proper care—like timely replacement of tires and batteries—the vehicle remains stable and can last five to ten more years, especially for rugged brands like Toyota or Honda, whose reliability and durability are often praised by long-time owners. In reality, though, increasingly strict inspections must be considered. If emissions exceed standards or major repairs cost too much, it's better to replace the car early for safety and peace of mind. In short, don’t underestimate an old car—with proper maintenance, it can stay with you for a long journey.

[DelaneyAnn]

My 15-year-old car is still running strong, and it's almost 20 years old now. I reckon it can last another three to five years without any major issues. This is all thanks to paying attention to the details: before every long trip, I check the brake pads and lights to avoid breaking down halfway. Also, basic things like engine oil and coolant, changing them on time can prevent small problems from becoming big ones. To be honest, as a car gets to this age, fuel consumption increases, and parts are more prone to minor issues. The repair costs can add up, but overall it's still more cost-effective than spending tens of thousands on a new car. However, environmental factors need to be considered, like living in the north where roads are slippery in winter, or stricter city driving restrictions, which could shorten its lifespan. I'd suggest consulting knowledgeable friends or finding a reliable garage for regular check-ups. Extending a car's life isn't that hard—the key is preventive maintenance.

[LaKai]

The lifespan of a 15-year-old car largely depends on usage habits and brand. I've seen well-maintained older cars run smoothly for another seven or eight years without issues, but if frequently driven on rough roads or with neglected air filters, parts wear out quickly, potentially leading to major breakdowns in just two to three years. Economically speaking, such cars have low residual value, but repair costs are cheaper than for new cars—as long as you avoid engine problems, simple fixes like replacing tires or brakes can extend its life. Additionally, tightening emission standards may impact longevity. On average, with regular inspections, practical use could extend another five to ten years.

[SanStella]

From a safety perspective, a 15-year-old car can still be driven for a few more years, but risks must be vigilant. Having driven for years, I believe aging of key components is the major drawback—like steering systems or brakes. If severely worn yet still driven, it may cause accidents; the lifespan would likely become dangerous after three to four years at most. Focus on critical maintenance: regularly check tire pressure and fluids, ideally with an annual professional inspection. Older cars test patience more—short daily commutes are fine, but ensure engine stability before long trips. The related topic is lifespan extension through careful driving and maintenance—never overlook minor issues.