
You can check the [Vehicle Factory Certificate] or the [Vehicle Environmental Standard List]. For used cars, you can query the vehicle's model number on the environmental protection website. Here is additional information: 1. When purchasing a new car, there is usually an accompanying environmental information sheet that includes the vehicle identification number (VIN) and the emission standard the car complies with (National V or VI). Consumers should review this carefully. The National V emission standard is marked with a "V", while the National VI emission standard is marked with a "Ⅵ", both using Roman numerals. 2. The implementation of strict emission standards by the government helps regulate automakers. As environmental pollution becomes increasingly severe, countries worldwide have established emission standards to ensure compliance, which plays a positive role in protecting the global environment.

Last time I went to the DMV for license plate registration, I specifically asked about this. The staff told me that the most straightforward method is to check the vehicle's environmental label and registration certificate. China 6 vehicles usually have a green label stuck on the windshield corner with the words 'China 6' on it, while China 5 vehicles have a blue label. You can also refer to the vehicle conformity certificate or purchase invoice, which will clearly indicate whether the emission standard is China 5 or China 6. I've checked several times myself and found that most new cars produced after 2019 are China 6 compliant due to stricter environmental policies. You need to be extra careful when used cars, as older vehicles might be China 5 compliant, and if they emit too much smoke, they might fail the annual inspection. So, it's important to pay attention to these documents regularly to avoid registration hassles later on, especially since many cities now restrict entry to China 6 vehicles only.

As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I've gathered some tips to distinguish between China 5 and China 6 emission standards. The key is to check the production date – China 6 was rolled out in phases starting from 2019, and all new vehicles nationwide after 2020 comply with China 6, while China 5 was the mainstream standard from 2017 to 2019. For example, my own car was purchased in 2020, and the production date is clearly marked on the vehicle identification plate located on the rear door frame. Additionally, you can start the engine and listen – China 6 vehicles typically have lower noise levels and cleaner exhaust emissions, with smaller emission test values, which can also be seen in the annual inspection report. If you're a car from another region, be sure to check the vehicle's VIN code online to verify its emission data, avoiding any potential regrets from purchasing the wrong standard.

The easiest way is to check the Vehicle Identification Number, also known as the VIN. You can find it at the lower left corner of the windshield or under the dashboard, then scan it using the traffic app, and the result will directly show whether it's China 5 or China 6 standard. I've tried it several times, super convenient; when buying a car, the salesperson also taught me to use this to confirm the emission level, avoiding being tricked. China 6 vehicles are usually more fuel-efficient, with upgraded emission controls.

Before a car, I asked the 4S store salesperson how to distinguish between China 5 and China 6 emission standards. He said there's a small label in the engine compartment of new cars indicating the emission standard. I checked it myself, and most cars have it designed on the inner side of the hood, marked with 'CN6' or similar symbols for China 6. For older cars where the label might be worn out, you can check the environmental section in the manual or listen to the engine idle—China 6 cars are quieter with less exhaust. This method is practical, so it's good to check thoroughly to avoid future issues with tightening environmental policies affecting car usage.

My friend just upgraded to a China VI emission standard vehicle. He taught me to check the emission records by entering the license plate number on the official website of the online vehicle office, and the results popped up immediately. When purchasing a car, make sure to check the technical parameter sheet in the purchase contract, which will specify whether it's China V or China VI. The new China VI standard has stricter limits, resulting in significantly lower carbon monoxide emissions, making daily driving more environmentally friendly. It also allows for differentiated treatment when passing through highway toll booths. Paying attention to these details helps avoid annual inspection issues—safety first.


