How Long Can National IV Vehicles Continue to Be Driven?

[AnaDella]

As long as the vehicle is in good condition, National IV vehicles can continue to be driven indefinitely. However, some cities may impose driving restrictions on National IV vehicles. China has clear regulations that do not set a mandatory retirement period for private passenger vehicles, only stipulating guided retirement after reaching 600,000 kilometers. Relevant information about vehicle emission standards is as follows: 1. Introduction: Vehicle emission standards refer to regulations on the content of harmful gases such as CO (carbon monoxide), HC+NOx (hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides), and PM (particulate matter, soot) emitted from vehicle exhaust. 2. Implementation Status: Starting from January 1, 2004, Beijing upgraded its vehicle emission standards from Euro I to Euro II, and by 2008, officially implemented the Euro III standard.

[JosieMarie]

To be honest, I also own a China IV emission standard car that I've been driving for seven or eight years. My biggest concern now is how long it can last. It mainly depends on policy changes, as standards vary across regions. In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, China IV vehicles are already being restricted—some areas even ban them from entering within the second ring road. Vehicle inspections have also become stricter, and failing emissions tests could lead to scrapping. However, in smaller cities or rural areas with more lenient policies, it might still be fine to drive for another five or ten years. I recommend regularly checking the exhaust system and replacing the catalytic converter with a high-efficiency one to buy some time. The key is to keep an eye on local traffic authority announcements—don’t wait until restrictions hit to panic. After all, China IV vehicles won’t be phased out overnight but gradually replaced.

[StCarson]

As a veteran car owner, my experience is that the lifespan of a China IV vehicle really depends on how you drive and maintain it. My neighbor's China IV van has already clocked 200,000 kilometers and is still running fine, mainly used for deliveries in the county town. Regular engine and exhaust pipe maintenance, avoiding excessive idling and overloading, can prevent major issues. For city driving, be cautious as policies are tightening quickly, and gasoline vehicles are prone to traffic restrictions. Overall, if you avoid urban core areas, driving for another five years is feasible, but be prepared with a budget for a replacement—don't push it too hard.

[DelPaisley]

From a cost-saving perspective, it's a fact that China IV vehicles won't last much longer. I've done the math - maintaining them costs extra money every year, with expenses like filter replacements or emission fault repairs running into thousands. Policies are tightening step by step, and major cities may impose restrictions as early as next year. It's better to switch to a China VI vehicle sooner rather than later, saving both maintenance costs and fuel expenses.