
Methods to distinguish between China 5 and China 6 vehicles mainly include the following: 1. Query on the Motor Vehicle Environmental Protection Website; 2. Inquiry at the Vehicle Management Office; 3. Check the vehicle's environmental protection label; 4. Review the vehicle's factory certificate. Additional information: 1. China 5 and China 6 refer to standards established to implement the Environmental Protection Law of the People's Republic of China and the Air Pollution Prevention and Control Law of the People's Republic of China, aiming to prevent pollution from the exhaust of compression-ignition and gas-fueled ignition engine vehicles, protect the ecological environment, and safeguard human health. 2. The differences between China 5 and China 6 include: (1) Different implementation times: China 5 standard was implemented in December 2017; China 6 standard was implemented in December 2014. (2) Different sulfur content limits: China 5 standard stipulates no more than 10mg per kilogram; China 6 standard stipulates no more than 50mg per kilogram.

To determine whether a car meets China 5 or China 6 emission standards, I recommend starting with the most direct physical identifiers. Open the hood or check the door frame to locate the small metal plate, which acts like the vehicle's ID card. It typically displays emission standard information, such as 'China V' for China 5 or 'China VI' for China 6. If it's not clearly marked, you can also refer to the user manual or purchase invoice for relevant details. Additionally, environmental labels are sometimes affixed to the rear of the car or the corner of the windshield—just look closely at the fine print. I always follow this method when helping friends inspect used cars to avoid transfer issues, as China 6 vehicles are more eco-friendly and face fewer restrictions. Remember, China 6 standards were gradually introduced around 2017, and most new cars after 2020 comply with them, but older models might be mixed, so checking the physical evidence is the most reliable approach. If you find it troublesome, ask a technician during your next maintenance visit—they can spot it at a glance. This method is simple, practical, and minimizes errors.

If you're a smartphone user like me, checking vehicle emission standards is all about apps. Platforms like Autohome or Dongchedi allow you to input the model and year to display detailed specifications, including whether it meets China 5 or China 6 standards. I frequently use this method when car shopping—it's fast and hassle-free. Alternatively, you can visit manufacturer websites or the Ministry of Ecology and Environment database, enter the VIN, and get instant results. Key details also appear on the vehicle registration certificate or license: check the parameters section for markings like 'GBVI,' which indicates China 6 compliance. Don’t overlook the Certificate of Conformity either—it’s usually included in purchase documents and clearly states the standard. This approach is perfect for lazy folks who want to skip a trip to the service center. Online tools streamline modern life with real-time policy updates, but always verify authoritative sources to avoid misinformation. Share these tips to help others!

Quickly Identify China 5 or China 6 by Year: When checking new cars, I found that the China 6 standard was trialed from 2017 and fully implemented after 2020, with most automakers transitioning during this period. For example, cars produced between 2017 and 2019 might be upgraded from China 5 to China 6, while those produced after 2019 are almost all China 6. However, older models before 2016 are definitely China 5. Remember this rule: most new cars within the last five years are China 6, and those before 2016 are China 5. Just check the manufacturing date on the vehicle nameplate and confirm with the registration certificate year.


