Can a Manual Transmission Converted to Automatic Pass Annual Inspection?
2 Answers
Converting a manual transmission to automatic cannot pass annual inspection as it constitutes illegal vehicle modification. Modification Requirements: When modifying vehicle colors, three colors are reserved for special-purpose vehicles and cannot be used: red for firefighting, yellow for engineering rescue, and white-over-blue for national administrative law enforcement. Modifications to the body, frame, or engine are only permitted if the original components are irreparably damaged or have quality defects. For such modifications, documentation from a repair shop and proof of origin for the replacement engine, body, or frame must be submitted. Modification Regulations: Widening tires or modifying the intake and exhaust systems are prohibited. According to the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations" by the Ministry of Public Security, altering tire specifications, intake systems, or exhaust systems on in-use vehicles are not permitted modifications. Such changes may affect engine power and compromise driving safety.
I've worked in the auto repair industry for many years and have seen plenty of similar modification cases. Converting from manual to automatic transmission will basically never pass the annual inspection, mainly because the vehicle registration certificate and the official green book record the original manual transmission configuration. When the inspection agency scans the database or checks the vehicle structure, any mismatch will immediately disqualify it. Modifications can also easily lead to drivetrain failures, such as unstable gear engagement during acceleration, increasing safety risks. I strongly advise against doing this for temporary convenience—safety first. If you really want an automatic transmission, saving up for a new car is a more reliable option, saving you the hassle of queuing at the inspection station only to be rejected. In short, vehicle modifications must comply with regulations, or you'll end up losing both the modification and the original setup.
