What is the maximum lifespan for an RV before it must be scrapped?
2 Answers
The lifespan of an RV before it must be scrapped depends on its size and passenger capacity. RVs classified as small non-commercial passenger vehicles have no mandatory scrapping age, while medium and large non-commercial passenger RVs must be scrapped after 20 years. Self-propelled RVs with a length under 6000mm and seating capacity of 9 or fewer passengers, as well as towable RVs under 6000mm in length and with a total weight under 4500kg, are classified as small passenger vehicles. Self-propelled RVs with a length of 6000mm or more or seating more than 9 passengers, and towable RVs with a length of 6000mm or more and a total weight of 4500kg or more, are classified as medium or large passenger vehicles. Vehicle scrapping process: The vehicle owner must fill out an "Application Form for Vehicle Modification, Transfer, Alteration, Suspension, or Scrapping" and stamp it with their seal. Apply at the registration counter. For vehicles that have reached the scrapping age, a "Vehicle Scrapping Notice" will be issued. For vehicles not yet at the scrapping age, if they meet the scrapping criteria after inspection, a "Vehicle Scrapping Notice" will be issued. The owner chooses a qualified recycling company to dismantle the vehicle with the "Notice". The recycling company dismantles the vehicle and takes photos after verifying the "Notice". The engine must be separated from the vehicle, the engine block must be broken, and the chassis must be cut. The owner submits the "Modification Form", "XX Province Vehicle Renewal Technical Inspection Form", "Scrapped Vehicle Recycling Certificate", and dismantling photos to the inspection counter for verification and signature. The license plates are reclaimed, and the scrapping is processed according to regulations.
As a seasoned RV driver with 15 years of experience, my vehicle is still in use. In China, privately-owned non-commercial RVs have no fixed maximum retirement age—their lifespan depends entirely on annual inspections. As long as the vehicle passes the annual inspection by the DMV, with intact safety structures and emissions meeting current standards, it can keep running. Theoretically, there's no upper limit, but poor maintenance leads to early retirement. My friend’s nearly 25-year-old RV is still on the road thanks to diligent upkeep, regular oil changes, and tire replacements—it passed inspection. Key inspection points include brakes, engine, and emissions; with stricter China VI standards, older vehicles can still be used after modifications. The key is fixing minor issues early—don’t wait until major repairs become costly before retiring it, so your RV can stay with you longer.
