Are There Fines for Modified Vehicles?
2 Answers
Driving an illegally modified motor vehicle on the road will result in the vehicle being impounded by the traffic management department of the public security authorities. The illegal modifications will be confiscated, the vehicle will be ordered to be restored to its original condition, and a fine will be imposed according to the law. Precautions for vehicle modifications are as follows: Installing a spoiler: The commonly referred to "spoiler" is more professionally known as a rear wing, which is often seen on sports cars and high-performance vehicles. Nowadays, some regular vehicles are also equipped with spoilers. Upgrading the ignition system: Appropriate improvements to the ignition system can enhance the vehicle's performance. Modifications to the ignition system include upgrading spark plugs, spark energy, and ignition wires. Installing a body kit: Body kits originated from motorsports and primarily serve to reduce the adverse airflow generated during vehicle movement while increasing downforce, making the car more stable during driving. Body kits are the most visually distinctive accessories that highlight personalization, which is why many car owners install them for aesthetic purposes.
I once modified my car's exhaust system, only to be stopped by traffic police and fined 500 yuan with penalty points. In China, many modifications are illegal, such as changing headlight colors, adding spoilers, or enhancing engine performance, which can all result in fines. The reason is that traffic regulations strictly prohibit unauthorized alterations to safety-critical components. I recommend checking local traffic rules and the official standard list before making any modifications. Additionally, if your vehicle fails the annual inspection due to non-compliance, you’ll have to revert it to its original state, wasting both time and money. A friend of mine modified his lights, which later affected his insurance claim—the insurer refused compensation after an accident, leading to even greater losses. For legal modifications, choose officially certified parts or seek help from professional shops instead of doing it recklessly yourself. In short, fines are a common consequence, so it’s best to be cautious and avoid unnecessary trouble just for temporary coolness.
