What is the Scrap Life of Trucks?
3 Answers
15 years of mandatory scrapping, usually due to emissions leading to early scrapping. Generally, domestic trucks can be used for at least 10 years, but the best performance is in the first 3-5 years, especially the first 3 years, when the vehicle condition is good, with fewer faults and ideal fuel consumption. Most owners consider making full use of the truck within these 3-5 years, and the financial depreciation period is usually calculated as 5 years. After 5 years, there are different disposal methods. Additional information: New regulations on truck scrapping life: three-wheeled vehicles and low-speed trucks with single-cylinder engines have a service life of 9 years; low-speed trucks with multi-cylinder engines and mini trucks have a service life of 12 years; hazardous material transport trucks have a service life of 10 years; other trucks have a service life of 15 years.
I've been engaged in long-distance transportation for years. In China, trucks generally have a mandatory scrappage period of 15 years, which may vary depending on the vehicle type. For light trucks, it could be as short as 10 years. After driving for so many years, I've noticed that vehicle conditions deteriorate significantly by the end of this period, with common issues like engine noises and brake failures. The policy is designed for safety, aiming to prevent accidents caused by aging vehicles. Although replacing with a new truck involves higher costs, considering maintenance expenses and operational efficiency, new vehicles are more cost-effective in the long run. I advise fellow truck drivers to plan their vehicle replacement in advance and not wait until the last moment when the vehicle management office forces deregistration. Current policies encourage environmentally friendly vehicles, as older trucks often fail to meet emission standards and harm the environment. Early scrappage to claim subsidies is also a good option.
As a mechanic in a repair shop, I've seen plenty of troubles with trucks exceeding their service life. The standard lifespan is around 15 years. Old trucks are prone to malfunctions, such as transmission oil leaks or chassis deformation, and the repair costs far exceed those of new vehicles. This policy is reasonable; otherwise, road risks would significantly increase. Once a truck reaches its age limit, it must be scrapped, or it won't pass the annual inspection. I often remind owners to perform regular maintenance to extend the lifespan, but ultimately, they must comply with the regulations. Environmental factors also cannot be ignored—old vehicles emit severe exhaust pollution, making it better to switch to a new energy vehicle. In short, safety comes first.
