How Many More Years Can National V Vehicles Run?

[JosieFitz]

Vehicles meeting the National V emission standards still have at least a decade or more of usable lifespan. Below is an extended introduction to National V vehicles: 1. No new registrations: Since 2021, only National VI models can be registered in all regions of China. Although National V vehicles are not yet subject to traffic restrictions, they are completely banned from sale and cannot be registered. 2. Significant gap with National VI standards: The difference between National V and National VI emission standards is substantial. The National VI standard far exceeds Europe's Euro 6 and the U.S. Tier 3 standards, becoming one of the strictest emission standards globally. 3. Lower resale value: Currently, new National V vehicles have substantial discounts. Even if purchased in regions still allowing National V standards, these vehicles cannot be transferred to National VI regions. The reduced efficiency in used car circulation affects prices, consequently lowering the vehicles' resale value.

[SanHope]

I've been driving a China V emission standard car for seven or eight years, and I've been thinking about this issue lately. According to policies, it can still be used since there's no nationwide mandatory scrapping policy yet, but restrictions on high-emission vehicles are increasing in various regions, such as entering big cities where environmental standards are checked. Beijing and Shanghai already restricted China V vehicles from entering the Fifth Ring Road last year. Now, new car registrations start from China VI, and China V is gradually becoming an older standard. I estimate that in another five to ten years, around 2030, the phase-out might accelerate, and emission standards for annual inspections will become stricter. From another perspective, the key is the car's condition: if the engine and catalytic converter are well-maintained and pass annual inspections easily, it can be driven for a few more years. But in the long run, with the rise of electric vehicles and tightening policies on gasoline cars, considering an earlier replacement might be wiser. For maintenance, I check the exhaust system monthly to prevent carbon buildup, and keep up with tire and brake maintenance—safety first!

[SanCamilla]

The service life of China V vehicles mainly depends on emission regulations and the vehicle's technical lifespan. According to current national policies, the full transition to China VI standards will be completed by 2025, and China V vehicles will not be immediately phased out; they can still be used for over ten years. However, local cities are gradually imposing restrictions on their operation, such as Shenzhen banning high-emission vehicles from certain zones starting in 2030. Vehicle maintenance plays a significant role; with regular oil and filter changes, and timely spark plug replacements, the engine's operational lifespan can reach 15 years. It's recommended to inspect the exhaust system quarterly to prevent catalytic converter clogging. Policy changes pose the greatest risk, such as environmental upgrades or subsidies encouraging vehicle replacement, so staying updated with local traffic regulations is crucial. Regular highway driving can help reduce carbon buildup and extend the vehicle's usable period.

[StSamantha]

How many years can a China 5 vehicle be driven? It depends on the location and vehicle condition. Big cities enforce stricter regulations, like Shanghai with more restricted zones, while smaller cities are more lenient. Policies aren't uniform, and these vehicles can generally run for about ten more years. The key is maintaining the exhaust treatment system well to avoid getting a yellow label. I know some modification enthusiasts who install new catalytic converters for China 5 vehicles, passing annual inspections easily. If the vehicle is sturdy and well-maintained, there shouldn't be major issues.