The shift from BS4 to BS6 emission norms has changed how many buyers evaluate used or second-hand cars. What may appear to be a technical update has actually influenced pre-owned car prices in India. This can be buying behaviour, depreciation patterns, and even long-term ownership decisions. If you are checking the second-hand car market, knowing how the BS4 to BS6 transition shapes price movement can help you make a more informed financial choice.

This guide breaks down the practical impact of the new BS6 norms on: demand, valuation, ownership cost, and real usage of second-hand cars in India.

How BS6 Emission Rules Are Changing Demand for Pre-Owned Cars?

The introduction of BS6 emission norms changed the way buyers compare BS4 and BS6 vehicles. Before April 2020, many used cars on the market complied with the older BS4 norms. With stricter BS6 regulations coming into effect, newer vehicles are expected to meet higher emission standards. As a result, BS4-compliant cars are now considered less desirable and have seen accelerated depreciation in many cities where pollution norms are strictly enforced. While condition and pricing remain key, emission standards now influence trust, long-term usage planning, and policy comfort.

Shift in Buyer Preference post BS6 Emission Norms

Urban buyers increasingly prefer BS6 vehicles because they comply with the latest pollution control norms in India. For example, a family in Bengaluru searching for a used hatchback may prefer a BS6 petrol version over a BS4 one because it feels more future-ready and compliant with upcoming regulations. Choosing a BS6 vehicle while comparing BS6 vs BS4 cars helps you overcome challenges related to resale and incurring additional expenses.

BS4 vs BS6: Demand Stability for BS4 Cars

Even when there is a clear preference for BS6 vehicles on account of their environment-friendliness, BS4 cars are still relevant due to their affordability. If you are considering a car for weekend or limited use, a BS4 model that is well-maintained can help reduce your investment. In rural regions, the preference for BS4 cars is evident, as buyers prioritise affordability and resale value over the latest emission features.

BS4 vs BS6: What Drives People’s Choices

Many buyers closely watch news on future environmental rules, the vehicle scrappage policy in India, and potential limits on older engine vehicles. This leads buyers to choose BS6 models because they see them as a safer investment under current regulations. Consequently, BS6 cars are gaining popularity in metropolitan regions, while BS4 cars continue to find a market in non-urban areas.

Related Reading: To understand how the vehicle scrappage policy in India affects older cars, resale value, and the options available for recycling or selling end-of-life vehicles, you may read our article, “Car Scrapping Policy in India”.

Overall, selecting between BS4 and BS6 norms should be a balanced decision, considering your specific use case along with factors such as maintenance patterns, usage, service history, and long-term plans.

Why BS4 vs BS6 Standards Matter When Evaluating Used Car Prices

When deciding between a BS4 and a BS6 vehicle, the difference is noticeable in engine refinement, technological improvements, and the car’s future resale strength.

Technology Difference

BS6 cars typically come with updated emission-control systems, including:

• Improved catalytic converters
• Advanced injection systems
• Diesel particulate filters (DPF)

They cut down on pollution and make driving better at the same time. This improved technology boosts customer trust in BS6 compliance for used cars, as they are perceived to be more aligned with long-term environmental criteria.

Fuel Compatibility

BS6 engines are specifically tuned for BS6-grade fuel, ensuring cleaner combustion. BS4 vehicles can run on BS6 fuel, but their efficiency and operating cost may change based on age and usage. This may influence their resale value during the transition from BS4 to BS6.

Influence on Resale Pricing

If you compare two cars from the same year, the BS6 version may command a slightly higher price. For example, a BS6 Maruti Swift may attract more interest and get a better second-hand car resale value than its BS4 counterpart, primarily due to updated technology and future readiness rather than significant performance benefits.

Price Trends: How Much Depreciation Has Hit BS4 Cars After BS6 Rollout?

The launch of BS6 led to a quicker depreciation of BS4 models, notably in top-tier cities and urban hubs.

Typical Depreciation Patterns

• BS4 petrol cars show moderate depreciation.
• Old diesel car prices in India have dropped further as buyers remain concerned about upcoming stricter diesel engine regulations.

A BS4 diesel SUV that was priced at ₹10 lakh may now come at a lower cost because newer BS6 diesel models are available, offering better efficiency and lower emissions.

City vs Non-City Variation

Depreciation varies across locations:

• In metropolitan areas, BS6 demand is stronger, decreasing BS4 costs further.
• In smaller towns, BS4 vehicles continue to attract attention due to consumers' preference for cost-effective solutions and total investment value.

Stricter emission standards and changing consumer preferences may affect second-hand diesel cars. .

BS6 vs BS4: Car Maintenance

Even with higher depreciation, a properly serviced BS4 vehicle with full maintenance records can sell at a fair price. The impact of the BS6 shift on depreciation is real, yet moderate, while the car’s past usage has the strongest effect on its resale value.

Do BS6 Upgrades Increase the Resale Value of Older Cars?

BS6-compliant cars often hold their value slightly better because they align with the latest government expectations.

How BS6 Affects Resale

• Higher buyer confidence
• Better fuel compatibility
• Lower risk of future restrictions
• Alignment with BS6 pollution norms

For example, a BS6 Hyundai Grand i10 may be priced ₹20,000–₹40,000 higher than a BS4 version purely due to buyer trust and updated technology. The impact of BS6 on car valuation is clear, as the updated emission rules and new technology affect how buyers value pre-owned cars in the market.

Value Stability over Time

While BS6 upgrades do not dramatically increase prices, they contribute to stable valuation and better long-term market demand within the used car market trends in India.

Impact of BS6 Fuel and Technology on Maintenance Costs in Used Cars

Maintenance plays an important role when choosing between BS4 and BS6 models.

BS6 Technology and Routine Maintenance

BS6 cars come with more advanced emission equipment, like:

• Diesel particulate filter (DPF)
• Upgraded oxygen sensors
• Enhanced catalytic converters

While these components make emissions cleaner, they may also increase the need for repairs or services. All diesel cars with DPF sometimes require regular highway drives for proper functioning.

Fuel Quality Considerations

Since BS6 engines are designed for updated fuel, inconsistent fuel quality may affect performance. However, most Indian fuel pumps already follow bharat stage 6 standards, reducing this risk.

Repair Cost Variation

Repairing BS6 components may cost slightly more because of advanced technology. Still, many BS6 petrol cars have maintenance patterns similar to BS4 models.

A BS6 diesel car used primarily for short commutes may display DPF warnings occasionally. Running 15–20 km on the highway every week can keep a car in good condition, which affects the BS6 petrol vs diesel resale, as petrol BS6 cars generally have lower unexpected maintenance costs.

Should You Buy a BS4 or BS6 Car in the Current Second-Hand Market?

Your choice primarily depends on your budget, usage and long-term goals.

A BS6 Car May be Better if:

• You drive mostly in cities
• You want a car that remains relevant longer
• You prefer smoother engine refinement
• You want better alignment with future green mobility and pre-owned cars trends

A BS4 Car May be Better if:

• You want a lower buying price
• Your usage is occasional
• The car has a strong service record
• You want affordable used cars post-BS6
• You are aware of RTO rules for old cars, which may affect registration, ownership transfer, and road-worthiness requirements for vehicles over a certain age

Customers who want to limit their spending may prefer purchasing a BS4 hatchback for regular commutes. A person driving daily in city traffic might gain more value from choosing a BS6 car, considering future environmental rules and the effects of EV adoption vs used car market trends.

Consider maintenance costs, prior service history, daily use, and future investment intentions while choosing BS4 or BS6 norms.

How BS6 Norms Influence Your Used Car Decision: Final Take

The rollout of BS6 rules has changed the resale value of pre-owned cars, affecting buyer behaviour. BS6 vehicles generally hold their value better, while BS4 options are chosen by those aiming to spend less initially.

Instead of just looking at emission rules, check the car’s service history, past maintenance, accident reports, mileage, and how much insurance will cost. Using this method can help you make smart choices with your money when buying a secondhand car.

Shriram Finance provides used car loans designed to help you navigate the changing prices of pre-owned BS6 and BS4 cars. Visit our website today to browse solutions and apply.

FAQs

1.What are BS6 norms, and why were they introduced?

They are emission standards designed to reduce pollution by limiting particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions. They support cleaner fuel usage across India.

2.How do BS6 norms differ from BS4 norms in terms of technology?

BS6 vehicles use advanced catalytic converters, fuel systems, and diesel filters to reduce emissions. Such features boost their market worth, ensuring higher resale values for previously owned cars.

3.Do BS6 norms make it harder to sell BS4 cars?

In metro cities, many buyers prefer BS6 models. But BS4 cars still sell well due to lower prices.

4.Do BS6 cars command 1 higher resale value?

Typically, meeting the latest norms and having better compatibility supports the higher resale potential. Yet, the final price depends on the car’s usage and current condition.

5.Does insurance differ for BS4 and BS6 cars?

Insurance premiums don’t change much because of emission norms. What really affects them are your age, the car’s IDV, and your past claims. This is especially important when applying for a used car loan in India.