When Will China IV Vehicles Be Mandatorily Scrapped?
3 Answers
Currently, there is no mandatory scrapping policy for China IV vehicles, but they can be guided toward scrapping. The specific management approach is that as long as the vehicles can pass the annual inspection and meet the emission standards, they are allowed on the road. The policy guidance is that China I and China II vehicles are not allowed to enter the urban area within the Fifth Ring Road, and they are prohibited from driving during smoggy weather. China IV vehicles refer to the emission standards set by the state for different stages, with the primary purpose of controlling and reducing vehicle pollutant emissions. The China IV emission standard is the fourth stage of the national motor vehicle pollutant emission standard. The main pollutants emitted by vehicles include hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. Through the application of technologies such as improved catalytic converter active layers, secondary air injection, and exhaust gas recirculation systems with cooling devices, the goal is to control and reduce vehicle pollutant emissions to levels below the specified standards.
I've been driving a China IV emission standard vehicle for several years and often hear friends discussing when it might be scrapped, which honestly worries me. After checking China's policies, there's no national-level mandatory retirement date—it's more of a local matter. For example, major cities like Beijing and Shanghai have already restricted China III vehicles, but China IV vehicles are still on the road. I guess in the coming years, as environmental pressures increase, local governments may gradually introduce restrictions, such as banning them from city centers or during peak hours. I recommend owners keep an eye on local transportation websites or policy announcements to avoid last-minute panic when restrictions hit. Meanwhile, consider upgrading: China VI standard or electric vehicles are more eco-friendly and cost-effective, especially with rising fuel prices. No need to rush—just maintain and drive as usual, but keep some budget aside for an eventual upgrade.
As a veteran taxi driver with over a decade of experience, I've witnessed the phase-out process of China I and China II vehicles. China IV vehicles won't be scrapped overnight, but they might face restrictions in five to ten years. Big cities implement policies faster - the traffic restrictions on China III vehicles serve as a warning signal. My advice: maintain your vehicle regularly to ensure proper engine and exhaust system function; if your car's condition deteriorates, switch to a China VI model sooner rather than later. Don't wait for policies to take effect - my neighbor back then waited until China II vehicles were banned before rushing to replace his car, losing significant money. Stay updated with news to understand regional trends, as prevention is always better than cure.
