How Many Years Can a Car Be Driven at Most?
2 Answers
For civil vehicles registered within China, the following conditions warrant mandatory scrapping: 1. Light and mini trucks (including off-road types) and specialized mining vehicles that have accumulated 300,000 kilometers; heavy and medium-duty trucks (including off-road types) that have accumulated 400,000 kilometers; extra-large, large, medium, light, and mini buses (including off-road types) and sedans that have accumulated 500,000 kilometers; other vehicles that have accumulated 450,000 kilometers. 2. Light and mini trucks (including off-road types), trucks with trailers, specialized mining vehicles, and all types of taxis after 8 years of use; other vehicles after 10 years of use. 3. Vehicles severely damaged or in poor technical condition due to various reasons and cannot be repaired. 4. Vehicle models that have been phased out with no available spare parts. 5. Vehicles that, after long-term use, have fuel consumption exceeding 15% of the national standard value for factory-new vehicles. 6. Vehicles that still fail to meet the national technical safety requirements for motor vehicle operation after repair and adjustment.
I have deep feelings about how many years a car can last. From a mechanic's perspective, a modern car can easily last 15 to 20 years without major issues if properly maintained. The key lies in how you handle routine maintenance: regular oil changes to ensure engine lubrication, brake system checks to prevent overhauls, and timely carbon deposit cleaning to maintain performance. Climate also matters—coastal areas, for example, benefit from extra rust-proofing sprays to avoid corrosion. I've seen older Toyota models running like new even at 300,000 kilometers, and the secret was simply the owner's diligence. Parts wear out naturally, but addressing every minor fault promptly prevents bigger problems. Advances like synthetic materials make cars more durable, but don’t rely on that alone; stick to annual professional inspections, and the lifespan can double. Remember, a car is a partner—treat it well, and its youth will last.
