How to Determine the Vehicle's Emission Standard Level?
3 Answers
Here are the methods to determine a vehicle's emission standard level: 1. Check the Motor Vehicle Conformity Certificate. Vehicles come with this certificate upon leaving the factory, which clearly states the emission standard; 2. Look for the vehicle's packing list. The emission standard can be found in the vehicle information section; 3. Examine the Certificate of Conformity, which includes exhaust emissions and indicates the corresponding emission standard; 4. Query on the Motor Vehicle Environmental Protection Website. Find the public query platform at the bottom of the homepage, enter the vehicle's VIN code and the last 6 digits of the engine number to retrieve the information; 5. Inspect the vehicle's environmental protection label. The back of the environmental protection label on the front windshield clearly marks the vehicle's emission standard.
I think the most straightforward way to determine a vehicle's emission standard is by checking the vehicle nameplate or environmental label. I always pay attention to the small sticker in the lower left corner of the windshield while driving—that environmental label clearly indicates the emission standard, such as China V or China VI. If the sticker falls off or becomes worn, you can also find the VIN code and standard information on the vehicle nameplate under the hood. Additionally, the Motor Vehicle Registration Certificate (commonly known as the 'Green Book') has clear records, which you can request to see when purchasing a car. I've also noticed that many cities implement traffic restrictions based on emission standards—for example, older China II vehicles may be banned from entering downtown areas, which is no small matter, so it's important to confirm early to avoid fines. Some apps like 'Vehicle Management Office Inquiry' tools are quite handy—just enter the license plate number to access detailed data. During routine maintenance, asking a technician to check is also a safer bet, as different emission standards affect tailpipe testing and annual inspection pass rates.
Distinguishing between different national emission standards for cars is something I often deal with when helping family members choose a vehicle. The most reliable method is to check via the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The vehicle's identification plate is usually located on the door frame or inside the engine compartment. Jotting down that 17-digit code allows you to verify the standard on the official DMV website or relevant apps. New cars typically come with an environmental label, affixed to the windshield, where the color and content directly indicate the standard. If buying a used car, I first check the registration year—for example, China IV vehicles were mostly launched after 2010, China V became common after 2015, and China VI was implemented in 2020. It's also important to note that different standards affect resale value and insurance costs, with high-emission vehicles depreciating faster. If unsure, I recommend commissioning a professional inspection to avoid pitfalls. With increasingly strict traffic restrictions, knowing the emission standard in time can save both hassle and money.
