Can installed navigation lights pass the annual vehicle inspection?
3 Answers
Installing navigation lights cannot pass the annual vehicle inspection. Adding navigation lights to a vehicle is considered unauthorized modification of vehicle lighting, which is not permitted. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, unauthorized modification of vehicle lighting is subject to penalties. The function of navigation lights: The purpose of navigation lights is to make the vehicle more noticeable during daytime driving. Their effect is not to help the driver see the road better but to alert others that a vehicle is approaching. Therefore, these lights are not for illumination but serve as signal lights. The main goal of daytime running lights is to enhance traffic safety. Precautions: When driving normally on the road, traffic police will penalize vehicles with unauthorized navigation lights. If you insist on having navigation lights on your car, you can purchase a model that comes with them from the factory, as this is a legal practice.
I've modified quite a few car lights, including navigation lights. For common types like LED daytime running lights, as long as you choose legitimate products with brightness within standards and install them no higher than the midline of the bumper, they usually pass annual inspections. However, note that navigation lights cannot use police colors like red or blue to avoid being mistaken for emergency warning lights. After installation, use instruments to test whether they cause glare that interferes with driving. During my last inspection, the technician specifically checked light intensity and angles. I had prepared the product manual in advance to prove compliance, and everything went smoothly. I recommend checking the national vehicle safety standard GB4785 before installation to ensure the lights don't exceed limits or flicker frequently. If doing DIY modifications, it's best to seek help from professional shops to avoid wiring issues that could cause inspection failure. Regular maintenance can also extend light lifespan.
I've been driving for ten years, and safety has always been my top priority. Installing navigation lights is intended to enhance nighttime visibility assistance, but the key during annual inspections lies in compliance. Laws and regulations clearly stipulate that vehicle lighting cannot be modified arbitrarily, including brightness and color, which must meet standards; otherwise, it will be flagged. A friend of mine installed overly bright fog lights, failed the inspection, and was even fined. Therefore, I recommend choosing low-brightness LED lights and ensuring they are securely installed without shaking. During the inspection, they will use instruments to test the lights, and if they fail, they must be removed immediately. Regularly check to avoid water accumulation corroding the lamp heads, which could affect performance. In short, for road safety, any modifications must comply with regulations.
