
2004 vehicles comply with either China II or China IV emission standards. The letter codes for automotive emission standards are as follows: 1. "I" represents China I emission standard; 2. "II" represents China II emission standard; 3. "III" represents China III emission standard; 4. "IV" represents China IV emission standard; 5. "V" represents China V emission standard; 6. "VI" represents China VI emission standard. Automotive emission standards are established to implement environmental protection laws, reduce and prevent pollution from vehicle exhaust, protect the ecological environment, and ensure human health. These standards aim to control the emission of harmful gases such as CO (carbon monoxide), HC (hydrocarbons), NOx (nitrogen oxides), and PM (particulates, soot) from vehicle exhaust.

I have a 2004 car, and the emission standards at that time were mostly at China I level, because the country implemented the China I standard in 2000, and the China II standard was only made mandatory in July 2004. Therefore, most cars produced in the first half of the year were still China I. My old car was manufactured in early 2004, and the nameplate indicates China I emissions. Now, driving into the city often faces restrictions due to emission controls. The upgrade from China I to China VI emission standards is actually a significant step for environmental protection, reducing many pollutants like carbon monoxide. Back when I bought this car, no one paid attention to emission issues, but now with stricter air quality regulations, older cars with high emissions are more likely to be checked. I suggest you check your car's registration certificate or annual inspection report to confirm the specific emission level and perform maintenance early to avoid fines. After all, environmental protection is everyone's responsibility.

In 2004, most vehicles still complied with China I emission standards, as the China II standard wasn't implemented until July that year, and early models might not have been upgraded yet. I remember air pollution was quite severe back then, and the emission upgrade marked a critical turning point in reducing smog and particulate matter. Nowadays, driving such older vehicles in cities with strict emission regulations like Beijing or Shanghai can significantly impact daily commutes due to stringent traffic restrictions. From an environmental perspective, emission standards have pushed automakers to improve technologies, such as reducing carbon emissions, which directly contributes to better air quality. If you own a 2004 vehicle, regular engine maintenance and ensuring an unobstructed exhaust system are recommended to minimize environmental impact.

Vehicles produced in 2004 generally comply with the China I emission standard. China introduced the China I standard in 2000 to replace the pre-standard era, while the China II standard wasn't enforced until mid-2004. Therefore, most 2004 models still adhered to China I. The standards were relatively lenient back then, but by today's measures, their higher emissions often trigger annual inspection issues or urban area restrictions. To confirm the emission level, check the vehicle's body label or consult a repair shop.


