Can Modified Front and Rear Bumpers Pass Vehicle Inspection?
2 Answers
Modification of front and rear bumpers on a vehicle must be approved by the vehicle management office beforehand. Only modifications with proper approval and documentation can pass the annual inspection. Unauthorized modifications without proper documentation will fail the inspection, and the vehicle must be restored to its original condition to pass. Legal regulations impose the following restrictions on vehicle modifications: 1. The vehicle model, engine model, and frame number cannot be altered; 2. The vehicle structure must not be damaged; 3. Changes to the vehicle's color, engine, body, or frame must be inspected; 4. Replacement of the engine, body, or frame requires submission of a motor vehicle safety technical inspection certificate; 5. If decals cover more than 30% of the vehicle's total surface area, approval from relevant authorities is required; 6. The vehicle's appearance cannot be significantly altered and must remain largely consistent with the photo on the vehicle registration certificate.
I'm an experienced driver, and you'd better think twice before modifying your bumper. The annual vehicle inspection is quite strict, especially in China, where exterior modifications are subject to close scrutiny. If you replace the front or rear bumper with a larger or oddly shaped one, the inspection station may directly fail it because it alters the original vehicle structure and violates safety standards. I once tried installing a cooler-looking bumper, but it was slightly oversized, and the inspector immediately told me to restore it to the original. I recommend using OEM parts or certified aftermarket brands for modifications—don't mess around. Before modifying, it's a good idea to visit the DMV to ask about the rules or check the national GB standards to understand the permissible modification range. Otherwise, wasting money is the least of your worries; safety risks are the bigger concern.