How many years until a minivan is scrapped?
3 Answers
A minivan is scrapped after 15 years. Below is information regarding vehicle scrapping: 1. Scrapping periods for various types of motor vehicles: Small and micro rental passenger vehicles are used for 8 years, medium rental passenger vehicles for 10 years, and large rental passenger vehicles for 12 years. Leased passenger vehicles are used for 15 years. Small training passenger vehicles are used for 10 years, medium training passenger vehicles for 12 years, and large training passenger vehicles for 15 years. Public transport passenger vehicles are used for 13 years. 2. Mandatory scrapping regulations: Vehicles that still do not meet the national safety technical standards for in-use vehicles after repair and adjustment, or those that still fail to meet national standards for pollutant emissions or noise after repair, adjustment, or control technology application, as well as vehicles that fail to obtain the inspection qualification mark for three consecutive inspection cycles after the expiration of the inspection period, must be mandatorily scrapped.
I've been driving for over 30 years and have dealt with vans a lot. The scrapping of vans isn't solely based on age—the policy has changed. There used to be a mandatory scrapping rule after 15 years, but it was abolished after 2013. It mainly depends on whether your van is for commercial use. For private vans, the kind used for general hauling or transporting people, there's no fixed age limit. As long as it passes the annual inspection, you can keep driving it. Generally, after 15 years, it needs to be inspected twice a year. If the vehicle condition is poor, it might fail and be forcibly scrapped. Some people drive them for 20 years without issues, but with poor maintenance, they might be done in five or six years. The key is the engine condition, braking system, and body rust. I suggest checking the oil and tire pressure every six months. Older cars can be quite expensive to maintain—the repair costs might add up to more than buying a new one. Also, the government now offers environmental subsidies. Scrapping an old car can get you several thousand yuan in subsidies towards buying a new energy vehicle, which is a pretty good deal.
As a seasoned driver, I've personally experienced the aging process of vans. Scrapping isn't just about the number of years. My first van lasted 18 years before retirement, solely because the engine completely gave out. Generally speaking, with proper maintenance, a van can last 15 to 20 years without issues, provided you change the oil and adjust the brakes regularly. After 10 years, problems start piling up – oil leaks, gearbox jitters, repairs costing hundreds or thousands each time. Do the math, and it's often better to scrap and replace. Safety is also a concern; older vehicles perform poorly in crash tests and are prone to losing control during sharp turns. So my advice to new van owners: mark every five years on your vehicle's age and get a comprehensive inspection at a professional shop. Don't wait until you're stranded on the roadside to regret it. Getting a new vehicle not only saves hassle but also reduces risks. Drive at moderate speeds to prolong its lifespan – don't push for speed.
