How Many Years Can a Car Be Used Before Scrapping?

[VanAubrey]

The scrapping periods for vehicles are as follows: 1. Small and micro-sized rental passenger vehicles can be used for 8 years, medium-sized rental passenger vehicles for 10 years, and large rental passenger vehicles for 12 years; 2. Rental passenger vehicles can be used for 15 years; 3. Small coaching passenger vehicles can be used for 10 years, medium-sized coaching passenger vehicles for 12 years, and large coaching passenger vehicles for 15 years; 4. Public transport passenger vehicles can be used for 13 years; 5. Other small and micro-sized commercial passenger vehicles can be used for 10 years, while large and medium-sized commercial passenger vehicles can be used for 15 years; 6. Special school buses can be used for 15 years; 7. Large and medium-sized non-commercial passenger vehicles can be used for 20 years.

[VonJuliet]

I see everyone is concerned about the vehicle scrapping age limit, but the official regulations are actually quite lenient. Since 2013, China has abolished the mandatory scrapping age limit for private cars, focusing mainly on emission standards and vehicle condition. For example, after 15 years of use, annual inspections increase from once to twice a year, which is quite troublesome; failing the emissions test may result in road restrictions. Especially for National III or older vehicles, emission regulations are becoming stricter, with more restricted zones in cities. I recommend regular maintenance, checking the engine and chassis every three months to extend the vehicle's lifespan. After 10-15 years, it's time to consider replacing the car, otherwise repair costs will skyrocket, and safety becomes an issue. With the rise of new energy vehicles, there are subsidies and incentives, making it more economical and eco-friendly to switch. Don't wait until problems arise frequently; plan ahead to save both hassle and money.

[VanMatthew]

As a budget-conscious average car owner, I believe the key to vehicle lifespan is the wallet. New cars depreciate rapidly in the first three years, reaching optimal cost-effectiveness when their residual value stabilizes around years 6-8. After that, maintenance costs skyrocket – a single suspension or transmission repair can cost thousands, and insurance premiums keep climbing. Keeping a car beyond 10 years means daily expenses, making replacement more economical. Having driven a 12-year-old car that drained my wallet with repairs, I later switched to a nearly-new used car for hassle-free ownership. My advice: replace around year 8 with proper maintenance (monthly tire pressure checks, regular oil changes) but don't overextend. Strike an economic balance – avoid dangerously old bargain cars that waste money. Today's certified used car market offers reliable low-mileage options for earlier upgrades and enjoyment.

[ONadia]

Vehicle scrapping age is related to environmental protection, as older cars emit more exhaust pollution. National I and National II models have already been restricted, and National III models are being phased out gradually. Driving a car for 10-12 years carries a high risk of exceeding emission standards, and if it fails the annual inspection, it will be forcibly scrapped. I've seen cars emitting black smoke on the road, which not only affects air quality but also leads to penalties. It's recommended to switch to electric or hybrid vehicles, which reduce carbon emissions and save fuel, with government subsidies available. Insisting on driving old, worn-out cars is harmful to health, and switching to new energy vehicles is the trend. Maintaining your car well can extend its lifespan, but don't overdo it—safety comes first.