What is the service life of a car?
2 Answers
The service life of a car is within 600,000 kilometers. Here are some car maintenance considerations: Don't blindly pursue high-grade gasoline: The octane rating of gasoline is only a parameter that measures its anti-knock ability. It has no necessary connection with whether the gasoline is clean or fuel-efficient. Higher octane rating doesn't always mean better gasoline, and even luxury cars don't necessarily require high-grade gasoline. The type of gasoline to use should follow the fuel standard specified in the manual, ensuring that the engine's compression ratio matches the gasoline's anti-knock coefficient. Price should not be the determining factor. Purchase high-quality lubricating oil: Apart from gasoline, lubricating oil is another major expense for car owners. It needs to be replaced every 5,000 kilometers. As one of the most important protective products for a car, using high-quality lubricating oil can effectively protect the engine, reduce wear, and improve the vehicle's economic efficiency.
As someone who has been driving for half a lifetime, I believe a car's lifespan is typically around 10 to 15 years, but it really depends on how well you maintain it. My own old car lasted 18 years before retiring—the key was regular engine checks, oil changes, and rust treatment. Safety always comes first on the road, and after 15 years, annual inspections become stricter, with many cars failing due to emissions standards. The ongoing costs aren’t small either—insurance and repair bills can add up to the point where buying a new car makes more sense. Plus, technology advances so quickly that infotainment systems feel outdated in just a few years. Driving an old car might be economical, but long trips can feel unreliable. If you’re determined to keep it running, finding a trustworthy mechanic to inspect the chassis and electrical systems is essential to extend its life—otherwise, early scrapping is common.
