How Many Years Can a China III OBD Vehicle Be Driven?
2 Answers
According to national regulations, the usage period is determined by the vehicle scrappage policy. For example, passenger cars are mandated to be scrapped after 15 years, meaning they can be driven for 15 years. If the government phases out China III standards, it means manufacturers are required to stop producing China III-compliant vehicles, and new registrations will be prohibited. However, this does not affect the normal use of already registered vehicles. Below is relevant information about China III standards: 1. China III vehicles refer to the automotive emission standards, specifically China's third-stage vehicle emission standards. The China III emission standard is equivalent to the Euro III emission standard, with tailpipe pollutant levels matching Euro III. The key difference is that new vehicles must be equipped with an OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) system. 2. When factors such as fuel quality cause emissions to fall below Euro III standards, the OBD system will trigger an alarm and switch to a default mode, rendering the engine inoperable. The vehicle can then only be inspected and serviced at authorized repair stations.
As a veteran owner of a National III emission standard vehicle for ten years, I deeply understand the situation. National III vehicles, especially those equipped with OBD systems, are now being phased out nationwide at an accelerated pace. Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai have long restricted their entry into urban areas. My car is still drivable, but passing annual inspections is becoming increasingly troublesome, requiring specialized testing stations. It's estimated that within three to five years, these vehicles will be completely banned, with first-tier cities potentially implementing the ban as early as 2025. In third- or fourth-tier cities or rural areas, they might last a few more years. The OBD system will warn about excessive emissions issues. If the vehicle is well-maintained, such as regular oil changes and electrical system checks, its lifespan can be extended. However, it's advisable to plan ahead and familiarize yourself with local scrappage subsidy policies early.
