How many more years can National IV standard cars be driven?

[DeEmery]

When the National V emission standard was implemented, National II standard vehicles were phased out. Therefore, after the implementation of the National VI standard, National III standard vehicles are also likely to be phased out, while the phase-out of National IV standard vehicles will at least have to wait until after the implementation of the National VII standard. The timing of the introduction and implementation of the National VII standard is unknown. The National VI standard has just begun to be implemented and has not yet been fully rolled out nationwide. It will undoubtedly be a long time before the National VII standard is introduced and implemented. Therefore, National IV standard cars can be used until their normal retirement without any issues. Below is some relevant information about National IV: 1. The National IV emission standard is the fourth stage of China's motor vehicle pollutant emission standards. The main pollutants emitted by vehicles include HC (hydrocarbons), NOx (nitrogen oxides), CO (carbon monoxide), and PM (particulate matter). Through the application of technologies such as improved catalytic converter active layers, secondary air injection, and exhaust gas recirculation systems with cooling devices, these pollutants are controlled and reduced to levels below the specified standards. 2. China's National III and National IV emission standards for light-duty vehicles are identical to the Euro III and Euro IV standards in terms of pollutant emission limits. However, some improvements have been made in the testing methods, and there are significant differences in the regulatory format compared to the Euro III and Euro IV standards.

[LeBarrett]

Recently, while researching changes in vehicle policies, I've been particularly focused on the usage lifespan of National IV standard small cars, as I drive one myself. Generally speaking, National IV emission standard vehicles can still be driven for quite a long time in small and medium-sized cities, likely until around 2030 without issues. However, in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, where traffic restrictions were implemented earlier, National III vehicles are already partially restricted, and National IV vehicles are expected to face limitations before 2025. The reason is that large cities are promoting new energy vehicles to suppress over-emission vehicles for environmental protection. I recommend that car owners perform regular maintenance and check their vehicle conditions to extend the lifespan, such as cleaning the engine to reduce the risk of excessive exhaust emissions. At the same time, pay attention to local government announcements, as some cities provide advance notice when updating restricted zones. In the long run, switching to a National VI standard or electric vehicle is more reliable to avoid sudden traffic restrictions affecting daily commutes.

[FinleyLee]

As a frequent driver with a decade-old China IV standard car, I feel it can still run for several years without issues. Policy-wise, the current focus is on phasing out older, non-compliant vehicles like China I and II standards, while China IV cars are categorized as transitional types with no strict regulations in most areas. However, economically developed regions like the Pearl River Delta may implement driving restrictions earlier. I estimate most regions will allow operation until around 2028, with major cities imposing constraints a few years sooner. Regular self-inspections to ensure passing annual checks can extend its use. A related topic is the used car market—policy changes may cause prices to drop, making early resale or upgrading to low-emission vehicles wiser. It's advisable to frequently check the Ministry of Transport website or app, as local policies vary greatly—don’t wait for restrictions to act.

[Julie]

As an environmentally-conscious car owner, I believe that National IV standard vehicles shouldn't be driven for too long due to their high emissions contributing to severe pollution. Most cities plan to phase them out gradually. Driven by policies like Beijing's restrictions on pre-National III vehicles, National IV vehicles may face limitations after 2027, with smaller cities implementing restrictions slightly later. I recommend owners focus on regular maintenance, such as replacing parts with eco-friendly alternatives to reduce exhaust emissions, while also considering switching to new energy vehicles. In the long run, reducing driving frequency or using public transportation more often can also lower risks.

[Judah]

Considering the cost of car ownership, my National IV standard car is still drivable now, but policies change quickly. For example, stricter traffic restriction policies may lead to inconvenience and increased costs. I estimate it can be driven in ordinary cities without issues until before 2030, while in major cities like Shenzhen, restrictions may start around 2025. It's advisable to maintain the car well to prolong its use and pay attention to traffic restriction maps to avoid entering restricted zones. The related issue is the investment in changing cars. Planning early to purchase a National VI standard car or a hybrid is more economical, as used cars depreciate quickly. Make good use of local resources to check announcements, which saves money and provides peace of mind.

[LillianLynn]

From the perspective of urban development, the service life of National IV standard vehicles varies by region. Small towns may allow them until 2035, while stricter policies in major cities like Shanghai and Guangzhou could impose restrictions starting from 2026. With rapid policy advancement and the rise of new energy vehicles accelerating transformation, it's advisable for car owners to prepare early. Regular maintenance is crucial—for instance, ensuring the proper functioning of the three-way catalytic converter to reduce excessive emissions. The trend indicates expanding restricted zones that will impact mobility. Check government platforms to plan accordingly, and consider a long-term vehicle replacement strategy for reliability.