Euro 6 is the latest European emission standard that limits how much pollution cars can produce. It sets strict rules for harmful gases coming from your car’s exhaust pipe, making vehicles cleaner and safer for the environment.
If you’re buying a car, checking MOTs, or wondering about emission zones, understanding Euro 6 matters. This standard affects everything from fuel costs to where you can drive in cities.
Euro 6 Emission Standards
Euro 6 represents the sixth generation of European emission standards for passenger cars. The European Environment Agency introduced these rules to reduce air pollution and protect public health.
The standard sets maximum limits for several harmful pollutants:
- Nitrogen oxides (NOx) – causes smog and respiratory problems
- Carbon monoxide (CO) – poisonous gas that reduces oxygen in blood
- Hydrocarbons (HC) – contributes to ground-level ozone
- Particulate matter (PM) – tiny particles that damage lungs
Key Euro 6 Emission Limits
| Pollutant | Petrol Cars (mg/km) | Diesel Cars (mg/km) |
|---|---|---|
| NOx | 60 | 80 |
| CO | 1,000 | 500 |
| HC | 100 | – |
| PM | 5 | 5 |
| Particle Number | 6.0 x 10¹¹ | 6.0 x 10¹¹ |
These numbers represent the maximum allowed emissions per kilometre driven during official testing.
When Did Euro 6 Start?
Euro 6 became mandatory for all new car models from September 2014. By September 2015, every new car sold in the EU had to meet Euro 6 standards.
The timeline looked like this:
- September 2014 – New car models must comply
- September 2015 – All new cars must comply
- 2017-2019 – Euro 6b and 6c updates introduced
- 2020 – Euro 6d-temp became standard
- 2021 – Euro 6d-final (current standard)
How Euro 6 Works in Practice
Real Driving Emissions (RDE) Testing
Euro 6d introduced real driving emissions testing. Unlike laboratory tests, RDE measures pollution during actual road driving.
Cars must now pass emissions tests in three conditions:
- City driving (stop-start traffic)
- Rural roads (steady speeds)
- Motorway driving (high speeds)
This change followed the Volkswagen emissions scandal, ensuring cars perform cleanly in real-world conditions, not just in laboratories.
Technology Requirements
To meet Euro 6 standards, manufacturers use several technologies:
Petrol Cars:
- Three-way catalytic converters
- Direct injection systems
- Particulate filters (GPF)
Diesel Cars:
- Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
- Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF)
- Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
- NOx storage catalysts
Identifying Euro 6 Cars
Check Your V5C Document
Your vehicle registration document (V5C) shows the emission standard. Look for:
- Section F.1: Shows CO₂ emissions
- European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval number
- First registration date (after September 2015 likely Euro 6)
Online DVLA Check
Use the DVLA vehicle enquiry service with your registration number. This free service shows emission details and MOT history.
Manufacturer Information
Most car manufacturers list Euro 6 compliance in their specifications. Check the vehicle handbook or contact the dealer directly.
Euro 6 Benefits and Impact
Environmental Benefits
Euro 6 significantly reduces harmful emissions compared to older standards:
- NOx reduction: 80% less than Euro 5 for diesel cars
- Particulate matter: 50% reduction from previous standards
- Air quality improvement: Measurable benefits in major cities
Health Benefits
Lower emissions mean:
- Reduced respiratory problems
- Less heart disease risk
- Fewer premature deaths from air pollution
- Better air quality for children and elderly people
The World Health Organisation links vehicle emissions to thousands of premature deaths annually in Europe.
Euro 6 and Low Emission Zones
London ULEZ Compliance
Euro 6 diesel and Euro 4 petrol cars meet London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone standards. Non-compliant vehicles pay £12.50 daily charges.
Check your vehicle’s ULEZ compliance:
- Visit Transport for London’s checker
- Enter your registration number
- See if charges apply
Other UK Cities
Many UK cities have introduced Clean Air Zones:
- Birmingham – Charges non-compliant vehicles
- Bath – Euro 6 diesel cars exempt from charges
- Bradford, Bristol, Portsmouth – Various restrictions apply
European Cities
Cities across Europe restrict older vehicles:
- Paris – Bans pre-Euro 4 vehicles from city centre
- Berlin – Environmental zones require Euro 4 minimum
- Milan – Area C restricts entry for polluting vehicles
Buying Euro 6 Cars: What to Know
New Car Purchases
All new cars sold since 2015 meet Euro 6 standards. However, check the specific version:
- Euro 6b – Early standard, laboratory testing only
- Euro 6d-final – Current standard with RDE testing
Used Car Considerations
When buying used Euro 6 cars:
- Verify compliance – Check V5C document
- Service history – Ensure emission systems maintained
- DPF condition – Diesel particulate filters need regular motorway driving
- AdBlue systems – Diesel cars may need regular top-ups
Diesel vs Petrol Euro 6
Both fuel types meet Euro 6, but differences exist:
Diesel Euro 6:
- More complex emission systems
- Higher purchase prices
- Better fuel economy
- Require AdBlue fluid (some models)
Petrol Euro 6:
- Simpler emission systems
- Lower maintenance costs
- Higher fuel consumption
- More reliable in city driving
Maintenance and Euro 6 Systems
Diesel Particulate Filter Care
Euro 6 diesel cars have sophisticated DPF systems. To maintain them:
- Take regular motorway drives (20+ minutes at 50+ mph)
- Don’t ignore DPF warning lights
- Use quality diesel fuel
- Follow service schedules religiously
AdBlue Systems
Many Euro 6 diesel cars use AdBlue (diesel exhaust fluid):
- What it is: Urea solution that reduces NOx emissions
- Where to buy: Petrol stations, motor factors, dealerships
- Cost: £5-15 for 5-10 litres
- Warning: Never let it run empty – can prevent starting
Service Requirements
Euro 6 cars often need more frequent servicing:
- Oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles (varies by manufacturer)
- Emission system checks at each service
- Software updates may be available
- Use manufacturer-approved oils and parts
Euro 6 vs Other Standards
Comparison Table
| Standard | Introduction Year | NOx Limit (Diesel) | Key Changes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Euro 3 | 2000 | 500 mg/km | First diesel limits |
| Euro 4 | 2005 | 250 mg/km | Particulate filters |
| Euro 5 | 2009 | 180 mg/km | Stricter NOx limits |
| Euro 6 | 2014 | 80 mg/km | Real driving tests |
Future Standards
Euro 7 is planned for 2025-2027, with even stricter limits:
- Lower emission thresholds
- Extended durability requirements
- Broader testing conditions
- Possible limits on tyre and brake particles
Common Euro 6 Problems and Solutions
DPF Regeneration Issues
Problem: DPF warning lights, reduced power Solution: Regular motorway driving, professional cleaning if needed
AdBlue System Faults
Problem: AdBlue warning messages, won’t start Solution: Top up AdBlue, check for leaks, software updates
EGR Valve Problems
Problem: Engine warning lights, poor performance Solution: Regular servicing, quality fuel, professional cleaning
Cost Implications of Euro 6
Purchase Costs
Euro 6 cars typically cost more than older standards:
- New cars: £500-2,000 premium over Euro 5
- Used cars: Varies by age and model
- Premium justified by lower running costs in emission zones
Running Costs
Potential savings:
- No emission zone charges
- Better fuel efficiency (many models)
- Future-proofed for restrictions
Additional costs:
- AdBlue top-ups (diesel)
- More complex servicing
- Potential repair costs for emission systems
Insurance and Tax
Euro 6 vehicles often benefit from:
- Lower VED (road tax) rates
- Reduced company car benefit-in-kind tax
- Some insurers offer green discounts
Making the Right Choice
Should You Buy Euro 6?
Yes, if you:
- Drive in emission zones regularly
- Want future-proof motoring
- Care about environmental impact
- Plan to keep the car long-term
Consider alternatives if you:
- Only drive in rural areas
- Have a tight budget
- Do mostly short journeys (diesel)
- Need maximum reliability (older petrol)
Timing Your Purchase
Best times to buy Euro 6:
- When older cars face new restrictions
- Before manufacturer incentives end
- When trading up from Euro 5 or older
Conclusion
Euro 6 represents a significant step forward in reducing vehicle emissions and improving air quality. While the technology adds complexity and cost, it delivers real environmental and health benefits.
For most drivers, Euro 6 compliance is essential for avoiding charges in low emission zones and ensuring your vehicle remains legally compliant for years to come. The standard has made cars cleaner without significantly impacting performance or reliability when properly maintained.
Whether buying new or used, understanding Euro 6 helps you make informed decisions about your next vehicle. Check compliance status, understand maintenance requirements, and factor in the total cost of ownership when making your choice.
The transition to cleaner vehicles continues with Euro 7 on the horizon and electric vehicles becoming mainstream. Euro 6 provides an important bridge towards a cleaner automotive future while meeting today’s practical driving needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my car is Euro 6 compliant?
Check your V5C registration document or use the DVLA online vehicle enquiry service with your registration number. Cars registered after September 2015 are typically Euro 6 compliant, but verification through official documents is recommended.
Do all Euro 6 diesel cars need AdBlue?
No, not all Euro 6 diesel cars use AdBlue. Some manufacturers use alternative technologies like NOx storage catalysts. Check your handbook or ask your dealer about your specific model’s emission control system.
Can I retrofit my Euro 5 car to Euro 6 standard?
Retrofitting is generally not practical or cost-effective. The changes required are extensive, including engine management systems, exhaust components, and software. It’s usually better to upgrade to a Euro 6 vehicle.
Will Euro 6 cars be banned in future?
Euro 6 cars are unlikely to face restrictions for many years. They represent current best practice for internal combustion engines and will remain compliant with most emission zones for the foreseeable future, though long-term city centre restrictions may eventually apply.
Are Euro 6 cars more expensive to maintain?
Generally yes, due to more complex emission control systems. Diesel models particularly need regular DPF maintenance and AdBlue top-ups. However, proper maintenance prevents costly repairs and ensures the systems work effectively throughout the vehicle’s life.