How to Check if a Car Meets China VI Emission Standards?
3 Answers
Methods to check if a car meets China VI emission standards include: 1. Look for the automobile environmental protection compliance label; 2. Check the page where the vehicle certification number starts; 3. Estimate the emission standard based on the vehicle's manufacturing year; 4. Use the original or a copy of the motor vehicle registration certificate to inquire at the local vehicle management office. China VI is denoted by the letters 'VI'. China VI refers to the China Sixth Stage Emission Standards for Motor Vehicle Pollutants, established to prevent environmental pollution caused by exhaust emissions from compression-ignition and gas-fueled spark-ignition engine vehicles, protect the ecological environment, and safeguard human health. The emission limits for China VI are: 1. Carbon monoxide (CO) emission limit of 700mg; 2. Non-methane hydrocarbon (NMHC) emission limit of 68mg; 3. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emission limit of 60mg; 4. Particulate matter (PM) emission limit of 4.5mg.
I researched this when buying a car recently because the new urban traffic restriction policies have significant impacts. The easiest way to check for China VI (National 6) compliance is to look at the label inside the door frame – it clearly states "China VI" or "National 6". If it's hard to read, just wipe it clean or check under better lighting. Another quick method is to refer to the purchase invoice or vehicle certification document, as these official papers always indicate the emission standard. When I bought my new car, I simply asked the salesperson for a copy and got it sorted immediately. Nowadays, many mobile apps like CheXingJia or Dongchedi allow you to input the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for instant query results. The 17-digit VIN can be found at the lower left corner of the windshield or in the engine compartment. I remember my neighbor bought a used car without thorough verification and was fined during the annual inspection due to misjudgment, so I recommend cross-checking through multiple channels for consistency. New cars are mostly China VI compliant, but extra caution is needed in the used car market.
I usually use these methods to help friends verify a car. First, check the nameplate by the door for the "China 6" label, which is usually placed in a visible spot. Second, scan the purchase invoice or compliance certificate for emission information—the text description should be clear and credible. Third, input the VIN code into official platforms like China's Auto Recall Website to check details—I often do this quickly on my phone. I also recommend asking the 4S store salesperson, as they know the standard specifics, or using apps like Autohome to input partial license plate details for verification. During inspection, ensure the car hasn’t had its engine modified, as this could lead to misjudgment—I once encountered a case where the owner hid the real emissions when helping someone buy a car. Remember to file all documents and keep copies for future verification.
