​​How to Check if Your Car is GCC Spec

Considering the recent shortage of fuel and the increase in petrol prices, car owners are looking for alternatives. Used compact cars are a popular choice among car buyers, but buying any old used compact car is risky. To ensure you buy an affordable car that lasts, check if the used compact car you’re considering buying is GCC-spec. A GCC-spec car will have lower maintenance costs as well as a longer service life. These standards apply to all cars manufactured after September 2001. They involve meeting minimum engine displacement and engine capacity limits, plus additional measures such as reducing noise and exhaust emissions to set standards. Hence, all cars manufactured from September 2001 onward are GCC-spec. If you’re thinking of buying a used compact car, here’s how you can check if the car is GCC spec:

Car GCC Spec: Check the car’s engine capacity

If you can see the engine block, check the capacity. You’ll find the capacity written on the engine block. Most compact cars have a 1.3-litre or 1.5-litre engine. If you’re checking an old car, there’s a high chance it has an old engine that doesn’t meet the GCC standards. A 1.3-litre engine is too small for a used compact car because it can barely pass the emission test. A 1.3-litre engine has a lower displacement and less power than a 1.5-litre engine. This is why a 1.3-litre engine is ideal for a light car, while a 1.5-litre engine is preferred for a heavier car.

Car GCC Spec: Check the car’s odometer

The odometer reading of a GCC-compliant car should be under 50,000 kilometres. If the odometer reading is above 50,000 kilometres, it’s highly likely that the car is not GCC-compliant. However, it’s important to note that odometer fraud is quite common. You’ll want to check the car’s documents and make sure the odometer reading is correct. If the odometer reading is suspiciously low, it might be that the car has undergone repairs that are not documented in the car’s history. This means you’ll have to ask the seller a lot of questions to determine if the car is reliable.

Car GCC Spec: Look at the VIN number

The VIN number is the car identification number. It’s a 17-digit number that’s printed on a sticker located on the dash. You can also find the VIN number on the car’s registration papers. The VIN number for a GCC-compliant car has a letter H at the end. The H stands for “high” and it indicates that the car meets the GCC standards. There are many websites that allow you to check the car’s VIN number and find out about its history.

Car GCC Spec: Check the exhaust system

The exhaust system on a GCC-compliant car should be a catalytic converter. This is a device that helps reduce exhaust emissions. All post-2001 cars should have a catalytic converter, but you can visually check to see if it’s there. The exhaust system should be stainless steel and not have a visible exhaust pipe. The exhaust system should be located under the car and exit on the left side. If the car’s exhaust system looks like it has been modified, it could be that the catalytic converter has been removed. This is a serious health hazard and can result in severe fines.

Conclusion

If a car passes all the requirements, it is GCC-compliant. However, if you can’t find out if the car is GCC-compliant, that doesn’t mean you should automatically avoid it. There are several ways you can determine if the car is reliable, even if you can’t figure out if it’s GCC-compliant. Check the car’s engine for oil and coolant leaks. Check the car’s tires for excessive wear and tear. Make sure that the car’s lights and indicators work properly. If you can’t find out if the car is GCC-compliant, you can still buy it as long as it has low mileage and is in good condition.

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