BS6 Engines: What You Need to Know
What is a BS6 Engine?
A BS6 Engine is designed to produce fewer harmful emissions compared to older engines. Introduced as part of India's Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms, these engines help reduce air pollution by using cleaner fuel and advanced technology.
Which is better BS6 Engine or BS4?
The biggest difference between BS4 and BS6 engines is the reduction in pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). To achieve this, BS6 Engine Technology includes:
Cleaner Fuel – BS6 fuel has much lower sulfur content, which helps in reducing emissions.
Advanced Emission Control Systems – Diesel engines now come with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) to cut down pollution.
Better Monitoring – BS6 vehicles have Onboard Diagnostics (OBD) to track emissions and ensure the engine runs efficiently.
The switch to BS6 Engines means cleaner air and a step towards a more eco-friendly driving experience. However, BS6 vehicles require proper BS6 Engine Maintenance and must always use BS6-compliant fuel to function properly.
How Does BS6 Engine Technology Work?
BS6 engines aren’t just about meeting rules—they’re built to make your car cleaner and greener. With stricter emission norms in place, BS6 Engine Technology packs a serious punch when it comes to reducing pollution. But how does it actually work?
Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
Ever heard of AdBlue? In BS6 diesel engines, this special fluid is injected into the exhaust to break down harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water vapor. This process, called Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), helps in majorly cutting down toxic gases. Translation? Less pollution, cleaner air.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
Diesel cars often produce a lot of black smoke, but BS6 engines are built to tackle that. The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) traps tiny soot particles before they escape into the air. Every now and then, the filter burns off the collected soot (in a process called regeneration), keeping emissions low and your engine running smoothly.
Low-Sulfur Fuel:
The shift to BS6 fuel isn’t just a small tweak—it’s a game changer. With just 10 ppm of sulfur (compared to 50 ppm in BS4 fuel), it keeps the emission control systems working efficiently. Higher sulfur content messes with the SCR and DPF, so using BS6-compliant fuel is non-negotiable.
Should You Upgrade to a BS6 Vehicle?
Pros of Switching to a BS6-Compliant Vehicle:
Eco-Friendly Driving: BS6 vehicles emit significantly fewer pollutants, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
Future-Proofing: As emission norms become stricter, owning a BS6 vehicle makes sure compliance with current and upcoming regulations, potentially avoiding future restrictions on older vehicles.
Advanced Technology: BS6 engines come equipped with modern features like Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), enhancing performance and reducing emissions.
Cons of Switching to a BS6-Compliant Vehicle:
Higher Purchase Cost: The advanced technology in BS6 vehicles often leads to a higher upfront cost compared to BS4 models.
Maintenance Considerations: The new emission control systems in BS6 vehicles may require more attentive maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
Considerations for Owners of Older BS4 Vehicles:
Fuel Compatibility: While BS4 vehicles can run on BS6 fuel, the lower sulfur content in BS6 fuel may lead to reduced lubrication, potentially causing increased wear on engine components.
Resale Value: As BS6 becomes the standard, BS4 vehicles may experience a decline in resale value due to decreased demand and potential future restrictions.
Environmental Impact: BS4 vehicles emit higher levels of pollutants compared to BS6 models, contributing more to environmental degradation.
In summary, upgrading to a BS6 vehicle offers environmental benefits and future compliance but comes with higher costs and maintenance considerations. If you're driving a BS4 vehicle, it's essential to weigh these factors carefully to make an informed decision.
BS6 Engine Maintenance: What Owners Need to Know
BS6 engines aren’t just a technical upgrade—they come with new maintenance needs that can’t be ignored. With advanced emission control systems, skipping regular servicing can lead to clogged filters, performance drops, and unexpected breakdowns. Here’s what BS6 vehicle owners should keep an eye on:
1. BS6-Compliant Fuel Only
BS6 engines need low-sulfur fuel to keep things running smoothly. Using BS4 fuel? Bad idea. It can clog injectors, mess with combustion, and even damage emission control components. If you notice sluggish acceleration, rough idling, or excessive smoke, your fuel system might need a professional check-up.
2. DPF Blocked?
If you drive a diesel BS6 vehicle, your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) captures harmful pollutants. But here’s the deal—short city drives can clog it up. If your car suddenly loses power or throws a warning light, your DPF might need cleaning or regeneration. Highway drives at steady speeds help keep it clear, but if the warning light stays on, it’s time for a DPF service.
3. AdBlue Matters More Than You Think
BS6 diesel engines come with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, which uses AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to cut down emissions. Running low on AdBlue? Your car might reduce power or refuse to start altogether. Avoid the stress—keep AdBlue levels in check during your routine servicing.
4. Regular Servicing
BS6 engines rely on oxygen sensors, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valves, and catalytic converters to keep emissions in check. If these get dirty or fail, expect higher fuel consumption and engine troubles. Sticking to a proper service schedule helps avoid expensive repairs down the road.
5. Is Your BS6 Engine Drinking More Fuel?
Noticed a dip in mileage? That’s often due to the extra emission controls working behind the scenes. But if your car is guzzling more fuel than usual, it might be time for a fuel injector cleanup or an engine diagnostic check to keep performance on point.
Why BS6 Engine Maintenance is a Big Deal
Skipping DPF cleaning, AdBlue top-ups, or fuel system checks can lead to expensive breakdowns. Regular BS6 engine servicing keeps your ride running smooth, emission levels low, and unexpected repair bills out of the picture.
BS6 engines bring cleaner emissions, but they also demand proper maintenance to stay efficient. Whether it’s fuel quality, DPF health, or AdBlue levels, regular check-ups can save you from costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. Need a BS6 service that gets it right? MyRaasta is here to help—because a well-maintained engine isn’t just about compliance, it’s about a smoother, stress-free drive.
