Can Modified Lights Pass Annual Inspection?
2 Answers
As long as the modified lights meet the annual inspection requirements for lighting, they can pass. There are no explicit regulations in laws and regulations regarding light modifications. Therefore, as long as the color temperature, brightness, and beam angle of the modified headlights meet the requirements, do not scatter light, and do not pose any factors detrimental to driving safety, there should be no issue. If unsure, you can call the local vehicle management office or traffic police bureau for consultation. Annual Inspection Considerations: During the annual inspection, the vehicle management office will check the vehicle's lighting. If the vehicle's lights are found to be too dim or too bright, they will be deemed unqualified, and the vehicle will not pass the annual inspection. If the lights are too dim, check the lighting circuit and whether the bulbs are aging, and replace the relevant components if necessary. If xenon headlights have been installed, it is recommended to revert to the original headlights before the annual inspection to pass the test.
I heard many people are concerned about whether modified lights can pass the annual vehicle inspection. Actually, it depends on whether the modifications comply with national regulations. The standards for light inspection mainly focus on brightness, color temperature, and beam angle, which must meet the requirements and not exceed the factory-set limits. If you're just replacing bulbs with the same specifications, such as swapping old halogen bulbs for new ones, it usually isn't a problem, and the inspection will pass. However, if you upgrade to high-brightness LED or xenon lights without CCC certification labels, the inspection station can easily detect them and mark your vehicle as non-compliant. These rules aren't meant to hassle car owners but to prevent excessively bright lights from blinding other drivers at night, which could lead to accidents. I recommend checking the annual inspection guidelines from the traffic authorities or consulting a professional at a reputable modification shop before making any changes. While modified lights may look great, safety comes first—don't take unnecessary risks to pass the inspection.
