How to Distinguish Between National IV and National V for Trucks?
3 Answers
Trucks can be distinguished between National IV and National V by the following methods: 1. Different Labels: The simplest and most direct method is to look at the vehicle's environmental protection label, which has clear markings on the back. For new vehicles, you can check the vehicle's factory certificate; or log in to the Motor Vehicle Environmental Protection Website and query by entering the vehicle's VIN number and the last 6 digits of the engine number. 2. Different Emission Standards: The National IV emission standard is the fourth stage of national motor vehicle pollutant emission standards. The National V emission standard, known as the 'National V Standard,' has an emission control level equivalent to the fifth stage emission standard currently implemented in Europe.
The simplest way to distinguish between China IV and China V trucks is to look at the environmental protection label on the vehicle's windshield, which directly states 'China IV' or 'China V'. The China V standard is stricter with significantly lower emissions. Many cities like Beijing and Shanghai have different traffic restriction rules for these vehicles, making China V trucks easier to enter urban areas. The registration date is also a clue—China IV trucks were commonly manufactured between 2011 and 2013, while China V trucks mostly appeared after 2017. My truck, registered in 2015, is labeled China IV on the registration certificate. For used trucks, I also check the Vehicle Conformity Certificate or manual, which contains emission certification information. During regular maintenance, it’s important to note that China V trucks use advanced exhaust treatment systems like DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), making parts more expensive, but regular maintenance can prevent failures. Additionally, you can enter the VIN code on the National Environmental Protection Agency website for a free and reliable check—I recommend giving it a try.
To distinguish between China IV and China V trucks, I usually check the label in the engine compartment, which clearly and directly prints the emission standard level. The China V engines are equipped with a urea SCR system for exhaust treatment, which is much newer than the EGR technology used in China IV engines. Although the maintenance cost is higher, it is more environmentally friendly. The VIN code can also be very helpful—the 10th letter indicates the year, for example, 'K' stands for 2019, corresponding to China V. You can simply scan it with a diagnostic tool at a repair shop. Some vehicles also mark it on the nameplate or the certificate of conformity, and the salesperson confirms it when purchasing a new vehicle. This distinction is crucial because many cities have strict traffic restriction policies, with China V trucks enjoying more freedom of movement. It also affects insurance costs, so it's advisable to ask for details every time you buy a truck.
