Does the China 6 Civic have a particulate filter?
3 Answers
In the Civic series, China 6A models do not come with a particulate filter, while China 6B models are equipped with one. A particulate filter is a ceramic filter installed in the exhaust system of diesel engines, designed to capture particulate emissions before they enter the atmosphere. It can reduce soot emissions from diesel engines by more than 90%, and the captured particulate matter is subsequently burned off during vehicle operation. How the particulate filter works: The diesel particulate filter is coated with metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. The black smoke containing carbon particles emitted by the diesel engine enters the exhaust particulate trap through a dedicated pipe. Inside, a densely arranged bag-type filter captures the carbon particles on a metal fiber mat filter. When the accumulation of particles reaches a certain level, the burner at the end automatically ignites, burning off the captured carbon particles and converting them into harmless carbon dioxide, which is then expelled. To check whether the China 6 Civic has a particulate filter, you can use the following three methods: 1. Refer to the and to see if the particulate filter function is mentioned. Additionally, carefully check the fault codes in the manual to see if there is a "particulate filter" warning light indicator. 2. Check the label on the oil filler cap. If the cap clearly states 0W-20 grade oil, it indicates the presence of a particulate filter. 3. Look at the exhaust pipe behind the three-way catalytic converter to see if there is an additional cylindrical section. If present, that is the particulate filter.
The Civic compliant with China's National VI emission standards indeed comes equipped with a particulate filter, which is closely related to the stringent requirements of the National VI regulations. Let me explain from an automotive design perspective. After meeting the National VI-B standards, almost all gasoline-powered vehicles, including the Civic, are fitted with this device as standard, known as a GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter). It's installed in the exhaust system to capture fine particles and reduce pollution. While the black smoke emitted during engine operation is reduced, there might be a slight increase in fuel consumption. I recommend that if you drive this model frequently, taking it on the highway more often can help with the regeneration of the particulate filter, preventing potential clogging issues. During routine maintenance, it's essential to regularly check the exhaust system. Some Civic owners have reported that driving at low speeds for extended periods may trigger a warning light, but there's no need to worry as this is a common occurrence.
As a Civic owner, I only realized my National VI version really has a particulate filter after purchase. It drives very steadily in daily use, especially in stop-and-go city traffic where the GPF automatic regeneration function activates to prevent clogging and performance issues. But avoid frequent short city trips - more highway driving helps keep it clean. Maintenance costs are reasonable, requiring only a check every 5,000 km, with dealerships charging a few hundred yuan per cleaning. Overall it significantly reduces emissions, giving peace of mind while driving, and is more environmentally friendly compared to older models.
