
A 2004 vehicle belongs to either China II or China III emission standards. Below is an introduction to the implementation timeline of emission standards: 1. China I standard: Nationwide implementation on July 1, 2001, mainly targeting restrictions on carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and particulate emissions. 2. China II standard: Nationwide implementation on July 1, 2004, requiring a 30% reduction in carbon monoxide and a 55% reduction in hydrocarbons and carbon oxides compared to China I. 3. China III standard: Nationwide implementation on July 1, 2007, requiring a 40% reduction in total pollutant emissions compared to China II. 4. China IV standard: Nationwide implementation on July 1, 2010, requiring a 50% to 60% reduction compared to China III. 5. China V standard: Nationwide implementation on January 1, 2018, requiring a 25% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions compared to China IV.

For cars produced in 2004, having worked in the auto repair industry for years, I've seen plenty—they typically fall under the China I emission standard. That's because China I was implemented starting July 2000, while China II didn't come into effect until July 2005, with a transition period in between. Back in '04, many models couldn't meet the new requirements yet, emitting significantly higher levels of exhaust compared to today's China VI vehicles, which are far more eco-friendly and efficient. Want to confirm your car's standard? Check the vehicle's identification plate or enter the VIN on the traffic bureau's website. For older cars like these, I recommend regular emissions testing to avoid getting caught by urban driving restrictions. Poor emissions not only affect annual inspections but may also hike up repair costs—so maintaining the air filter and catalytic converter is crucial. After all, a car over a decade old needs extra care; addressing issues early prevents breakdowns and ensures both safety and environmental compliance.

As an environmentally conscious individual, I believe most 2004 vehicles comply with China's National I emission standards, which are relatively more polluting. The National I standard was implemented from 2000 to 2005 as a transitional phase, when vehicle exhaust contained significantly higher levels of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, creating greater environmental pressure. When driving such vehicles, I need to be mindful of their emissions as they contribute to smog problems, especially in heavily polluted major cities. To check your vehicle's standard, simply look for the label on the engine cover. Many regions now implement restrictions on older vehicles - cities like Beijing and Shanghai frequently impose limits on National I vehicles, affecting transportation convenience. For long-term considerations, I recommend regular maintenance with higher quality engine oil and spark plugs to reduce emissions, or upgrading to a newer standard vehicle to help make urban air cleaner.

From a technical perspective, vehicles from 2004 typically comply with China National I emission standards. National I had relatively lenient exhaust testing limits, such as controlling carbon monoxide within specific levels, while National II only raised the standards in 2005. Want to know the specific condition of your car? Just run an emissions test to find out. If emissions fail to meet standards, it can easily trigger the check engine light and affect vehicle performance. Common issues include excessive carbon buildup or faulty sensors, so it's recommended to have a professional technician perform diagnostic tests with proper equipment. For older vehicles, don't neglect the emission system during maintenance - keeping it in proper working order will save you headaches.