What is the mandatory scrapping period for sedans?
3 Answers
There is no mandatory scrapping period for sedans, but rather a guided scrapping policy. For 5-seat family sedans and 7-seat SUVs that are non-commercial small or mini vehicles, there is no usage lifespan limit. When the normal driving mileage reaches 600,000 kilometers, the government will recommend scrapping. Guided scrapping is a recommendation, but if the vehicle still meets the requirements for continued use, it does not have to be scrapped. There are four criteria for mandatory scrapping: 1. Reaching the stipulated usage period; 2. After repairs and adjustments, the vehicle still fails to meet the national safety technical standards for in-use vehicles; 3. After repairs, adjustments, or the adoption of control technologies, the vehicle's emissions or noise still fail to meet national standards for in-use vehicles; 4. Failing to obtain the motor vehicle inspection qualification mark for three consecutive inspection cycles after the inspection validity period expires.
My current ride is already 12 years old, and I specifically checked the new regulations. The government has long abolished the mandatory scrapping age for private vehicles, allowing them to be driven freely as long as they're under 600,000 kilometers. However, annual inspections are required, and both emissions and safety must meet the standards. During my last annual inspection, a car in the next lane was forcibly scrapped because its chassis was rusted through. Routine maintenance is really important, especially for the brakes and emission system. If a vehicle fails the inspection three times, it has to be sent to the scrapyard no matter how many years it's been driven. With increasingly strict environmental requirements, even China III vehicles are starting to face traffic restrictions in first-tier cities, and there are subsidies available for early retirement.
I've previously researched vehicle management policies, and indeed there's no mandatory retirement age for private cars anymore. However, in actual usage, two key points matter: first, don't exceed 600,000 kilometers in mileage, and second, the annual inspection must be passed. Last month, my colleague's 2008 model car failed the emissions test - after two repairs it still exceeded standards and had to be scrapped. Emission standards update too quickly, making National II and III vehicles essentially only good for scrap metal. Pay regular attention to engine carbon buildup and the catalytic converter - issues with these components directly lead to inspection failure. I recommend checking for chassis rust every three months - this is an instant fail during inspections.
