
Currently, as long as it is a non-commercial private vehicle, it can continue to be driven indefinitely until it reaches 600,000 kilometers in mileage, with no time restrictions. Therefore, a 2004 car can still be driven as long as it remains functional and has not exceeded the mileage limit. According to Article 5 of the "Mandatory Scrapping Standards for Motor Vehicles," the service life for various types of motor vehicles is as follows: 1. Taxi passenger vehicles: Small and mini taxi passenger vehicles have a service life of 8 years, medium-sized taxi passenger vehicles 10 years, and large taxi passenger vehicles 12 years; rental passenger vehicles have a service life of 15 years. 2. Training passenger vehicles: Small training passenger vehicles have a service life of 10 years, medium-sized training passenger vehicles 12 years, and large training passenger vehicles 15 years. 3. Other vehicle types: Other small and mini commercial passenger vehicles have a service life of 10 years, while large and medium-sized commercial passenger vehicles have a service life of 15 years.

I think a car from 2004 can still run for many years, the key lies in how it's maintained. My old car is a 2004 model, and it's already clocked nearly 200,000 kilometers but still runs normally. The main thing is regular maintenance, like checking the oil, brakes, and tires every six months, and replacing worn parts. Older cars tend to have minor issues, such as loose suspension or rusted exhaust pipes, but as long as they're fixed promptly, they won't affect driving. In terms of emission standards, some big cities have annual inspection restrictions, so you need to check local policies to see if it can pass. Financially, repair costs may be higher than for a new car, but spread out monthly, you save a lot on loan payments. Overall, if the car is in good condition, keep driving it—it can easily last another five to eight years. Just take good care of it.

I drive a 2004 model car, which feels okay but has some minor annoyances. As the mileage increases, repairs become more frequent—last time, replacing the clutch cost over a thousand bucks, and it guzzles more gas too. Friends suggest that if you often drive long distances and worry about safety, it might be better to replace it sooner; but for just city commuting, it’s still quite convenient. Maintenance costs for older cars rise, like needing more frequent transmission fluid and brake disc changes. Learning to check some simple things yourself can save some money. Overall, with proper maintenance, it could last a few more years, but don’t expect it to be as worry-free as a new car. It might not meet current environmental standards, so regular emissions testing is important. In the end, weigh the costs and convenience to decide.

Older cars can still run for a while, but safety must come first. A 2004 vehicle is now prone to wear in the brake system and frame structure, so it's recommended to get a comprehensive inspection at a professional shop. With proper maintenance, cars under 20 years old generally don't have major issues, but severe rust or abnormal engine noises may warrant considering a replacement. Annual inspections are crucial, and in areas with strict emission standards, non-compliant vehicles might be forcibly scrapped. From personal experience, diligent maintenance can keep it running safely for a year or two, but for long-term use, planning an upgrade is better. The cost isn't high, but it does require attention to detail.

A 2004 car is a classic, and my old car gives a nostalgic feeling when driving. With proper maintenance, it can last a long time, such as changing the coolant and belts to reduce failures. If the engine is in good condition, it can run over 100,000 kilometers—performance may decline, but it's still sufficient for commuting. Upgrading with new parts like LED lights can enhance safety. It holds high sentimental value, offering peace of mind and cost savings. With proper care, it can endure for many more years.


