How Many Years Can a Used Car Be Driven?
2 Answers
There are no mandatory national regulations on the maximum number of years a used car can be driven, but the government typically encourages scrapping for vehicles that exceed a certain age. Below are the relevant regulations regarding the scrapping of used cars: 1. Failure to meet safety standards: Damaged vehicles that, after repair and adjustment, still do not comply with the national standards for motor vehicle safety technology. 2. Failure to meet emission standards: Damaged vehicles that, after repair and adjustment, still emit pollutants into the atmosphere or produce excessive noise, failing to meet national standards. 3. Repair costs exceeding 80%: If the repair cost after an accident exceeds 80% of the vehicle's pre-accident value, the vehicle can be scrapped.
As someone who has driven used cars for many years, I believe how long a used car can last really depends on its condition and how you maintain it. If you buy a low-mileage, accident-free car from brands like Honda or Toyota and maintain it properly, it can easily last seven or eight years or even longer. My own used Ford, which had only 50,000 kilometers when I bought it, has now been with me for six years and is still running strong at 120,000 kilometers. The key is to change the oil regularly, check the brake pads and tires, and not ignore minor issues—otherwise, major repairs can be costly and stressful. Also, cars age, and rubber parts and wiring are prone to problems, so I recommend finding a reliable repair shop for an annual comprehensive check-up. While driving an older car saves you money on a new one, you need to pay extra attention to safety, especially ensuring the brakes are reliable on long trips. Overall, don’t worry about a used car’s lifespan being short—with a little care, it can become a trusted old companion in your family.
