Can a Spoiler Pass the Annual Vehicle Inspection?
4 Answers
Installing a spoiler on a car will not pass the annual vehicle inspection. During the inspection, authorities check whether the vehicle has been modified, altered, or reconstructed, and verify if the vehicle's registration certificate, license plate, and vehicle records match the actual condition of the car, including any changes. They also check if the necessary approval and modification procedures have been completed. Below are specific details about the annual vehicle inspection: 1. Meaning of Annual Inspection: It is a mandatory test for vehicles that have already obtained official license plates. 2. Exemption Policy: The 6-year exemption for eligible vehicles means they are exempt from on-site inspection. However, owners still need to have their vehicle's emissions tested within the specified period (usually every 2 years) and apply for an inspection compliance mark at the vehicle management office, motor vehicle registration service station, or traffic police station, which must then be affixed to the upper right corner of the vehicle's front windshield. 3. Scope of Exemption Policy: The 6-year exemption policy for non-commercial passenger cars and other eligible vehicles has been in trial implementation since September 1, 2014.
A few days ago, my cousin just installed a rear spoiler and asked me if it would pass the annual inspection. I told him it mainly depends on three points: First, the type of spoiler—small ducktail spoilers can generally pass, but larger ones are more questionable. Last time I went to the DMV to ask, the staff said it’s fine as long as it doesn’t alter the factory parameters. Second, the installation method—those attached with adhesive are more likely to pass than those drilled and screwed in, as they don’t damage the car’s structure. Lastly, it depends on local policies—cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou are stricter, while second- and third-tier cities might be more lenient. I suggested taking a photo of the spoiler to the DMV before installation to check, otherwise, if it fails the inspection, he’d have to remove it, wasting money and time.
Many members in our team have modified their rear wings. Based on experience, here's what we can tell you: as long as the height doesn't exceed 30 cm, the width doesn't surpass the car body, and the material isn't too exaggerated, it should generally pass the annual inspection. Last year, my small carbon fiber rear wing passed without issues. The key is to bring vehicle photos and modification certificates when filing for the changes. Remember to register the modifications at the DMV within a week after the changes, or you might risk being flagged for illegal modifications if you wait too long. Also, be mindful not to be too flashy when driving daily. A fellow car enthusiast was stopped by traffic police on the highway with his modified car—even though it was legal, it still took some explaining.
Last week, I helped my neighbor deal with the spoiler issue that caused his vehicle to fail the annual inspection. The key point is that the dimensions must comply with regulations: the horizontal projection should not exceed 5% of the vehicle's width, and the ground clearance should not surpass 1.5 meters from the body. In fact, many spoilers bought on Taobao exceed these standards, so it's best to choose the type included in the original manufacturer's sports kit. When filing for approval, bring the vehicle license and certificate of conformity. The staff mainly checks whether it affects safe driving. If asked to remove it, don't resist stubbornly. Nowadays, quick-release spoilers can be installed or removed in half an hour, so it's no hassle to reinstall them after the inspection.
