Can 4S shops modify cars?
2 Answers
4S shops cannot modify cars. It is best to go to a professional modification place. For registered motor vehicles, it is not allowed to arbitrarily change the registered structure, construction, or characteristics. Unauthorized changes to the vehicle's appearance, engine performance, or adding a turbocharger are all prohibited. If the owner really needs to modify the vehicle, they must first apply for record at the vehicle management office before proceeding with the modification. According to the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations": Article 9 states that applying to change the body color, replace the body or frame of a motor vehicle requires filling out the "Motor Vehicle Modification Registration Application Form" and submitting legal certificates and proofs. The vehicle management office shall make a decision to approve or disapprove the modification within one day from the date of acceptance. For approved modifications, the owner of the motor vehicle shall submit the vehicle for inspection to the vehicle management office within ten days after the modification. The vehicle management office shall confirm the motor vehicle within one day from the date of acceptance, retrieve the original driving license, and reissue a new driving license. Notes on vehicle modification: Replacing the headlights with xenon lamps is safe for driving itself, but drivers must comply with the regulation to switch from high beam to low beam when approaching an oncoming vehicle at about 100 meters at night, so as not to affect the visibility of other vehicles. Adding spoilers, car stickers, body kits, or modifying car audio systems generally do not affect safety and are therefore permissible. Installing a sunroof reduces the safety performance due to changes in the roof structure and load-bearing capacity. Changes and modifications to the engine are considered major modifications and must be applied for.
I've dealt with quite a few 4S shops, and they do offer modification services, but mainly for OEM upgrade projects. For example, changing wheels, adding a reversing camera, or upgrading the OEM audio system—these modifications don't affect the vehicle's core structure. However, they usually don't handle exhaust modifications or ECU tuning, as these may violate warranty terms or legal requirements. There are benefits to modifying at a 4S shop: they use genuine OEM parts with high compatibility, and the modifications won't affect the vehicle's warranty. The downside is that the price is 20-30% higher than outside shops, and there are fewer personalized options since they focus on the OEM style. If you want something more unique, you'll need to go to a professional modification shop.
