In recent years, the Indian government has been actively promoting vehicle scrapping to reduce pollution and boost the circular economy. But even today, many vehicle owners hold back from scrapping their old cars because of common myths and confusion.
Let’s bust these myths one by one and understand the actual facts. This way, you can make a smarter and more eco-friendly choice when your vehicle reaches the end of its life.
Myth 1: “Old vehicles can be used as long as they are maintained well”
✅ Fact: Fitness tests and age limits are more important than just maintenance
In India, private vehicles are allowed to run for up to 15 years, and commercial vehicles for 10 years in highly polluted cities like Delhi. Even if your car is in good condition, you must clear the fitness test after this period to continue using it. If it fails, you cannot legally drive it.
As per MoRTH data (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways), over 1 crore vehicles in India are older than 15 years. Continuing to use them increases the risk of pollution and road accidents.
Myth 2: “Scrapping a car means you lose all the value”
✅ Fact: You get good scrap value and even incentives from the government
This is a very common myth. In reality, when you scrap your vehicle at an authorised center, you receive a scrap value based on the metal weight. Plus, the government now offers:
- Up to 25% rebate on road tax for the new vehicle
- Waiver on registration fee
- Discounts from some car manufacturers
So, scrapping actually saves you money. Leading vehicle scrapping companies in India use automated methods to weigh, dismantle, and provide fair value.
Myth 3: “All scrap dealers are unorganised and risky”
✅ Fact: Certified RVSFs ensure safe and legal scrapping
Gone are the days when vehicle scrapping was handled by roadside junk dealers. Now, the government has approved Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs) that follow proper procedures.
If you’re in Gujarat, for example, you’ll find multiple authorised car scrap dealers in Ahmedabad who provide:
- Digitally verified scrap certificate
- Proper de-registration at RTO
- Environmental-friendly disposal of car parts
Always check the RVSF license before handing over your vehicle. The official portal [Vahan Citizen Services] helps you find certified scrapping centers.
Myth 4: “Deregistering a scrapped vehicle is a headache”
✅ Fact: It’s simple and handled by scrapping companies
Many people hesitate to scrap their vehicles because they fear the paperwork. But the good news is – authorised scrapping companies take care of this entire process. They provide:
- Scrap certificate – proof that your vehicle is dismantled
- Help in de-registering your vehicle at the RTO
- Legal clearance to avoid future issues like vehicle misuse
With the new scrapping policy, this process has become faster and more transparent.
Myth 5: “Scrapping harms the environment”
✅ Fact: Vehicle scrapping is actually good for the environment
Contrary to the myth, scrapping helps reduce carbon footprint. Old vehicles emit 10 to 12 times more pollutants than newer ones.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), vehicles over 15 years contribute to more than 25% of vehicular pollution in urban areas.
Scrapping helps:
- Recycle valuable metals like steel, aluminum, and copper
- Prevent illegal burning of car parts
- Reduce pressure on natural resources
So, when you scrap your old car, you’re helping the environment.
Myth 6: “Only private cars are affected by the scrapping policy”
✅ Fact: The policy applies to commercial and government vehicles too
Under the Vehicle Scrapping Policy 2021, all types of vehicles are covered, including:
- Private cars (after 15 years)
- Commercial vehicles (after 10 years in polluted cities)
- Government and PSU vehicles (after 15 years without exception)
In fact, over 9 lakh government vehicles are to be scrapped under this policy.
So, if you’re running a business with transport vehicles, it’s important to check their age and fitness status.
Myth 7: “Keeping an old vehicle is cheaper than buying a new one”
✅ Fact: Old cars cost more in maintenance, fuel, and penalties
It may feel cheaper to keep your old car, but hidden costs pile up fast:
- Frequent repairs and part replacements
- Higher fuel consumption
- Penalties for pollution and expired registration
- Risk of breakdowns and insurance rejection
In comparison, scrapping gives you value, tax rebates, and peace of mind. Many vehicle scrapping companies in India also offer doorstep pick-up and instant payments.
Quick Summary: Myths vs Facts Table
| Myth | Fact |
| Old cars can run forever | Fitness test and age limits apply |
| Scrapping gives no value | Scrap value + tax benefits available |
| Scrap dealers are unsafe | RVSFs are certified and reliable |
| Deregistration is hard | It’s handled by scrapping centers |
| Scrapping pollutes the environment | It helps in recycling and reduces emissions |
| Only private vehicles need scrapping | Policy applies to all vehicle types |
| Keeping old cars is cost-saving | It’s more expensive in the long run |
Conclusion
India is moving towards a cleaner, greener transport system, and vehicle scrapping is a big part of that change. Whether you’re an individual or a business, it’s time to think about scrapping your old vehicle the right way.
Instead of falling for myths, rely on trusted vehicle scrapping companies in India or reputed car scrap dealers in Ahmedabad who follow legal procedures and give you the best value.
So, if your car has crossed its age or failed the fitness test, don’t wait – scrap it, save money, and support the environment.
