Can Off-Road Vehicles with Additional Fuel Tanks Pass Annual Inspection?
2 Answers
Any unauthorized installation or modification without approval from the vehicle management office is considered illegal modification and will not pass the annual inspection. Below is an introduction to the annual inspection: 1. Introduction: Annual inspection, colloquially referred to as 'annual review,' involves a comprehensive safety check of the vehicle every year or every two years. This includes inspections of the horn, brakes, axle weight, chassis, ignition system, lighting system, exhaust system, license plate installation, and more. 2. Preparation: Verify the accuracy of the insurance policy, especially for the first annual inspection of a new car. If there are discrepancies between the information on the insurance policy and the actual situation, corrections must be made with the insurance company. 3. Relevant Regulations: Motor vehicles must undergo safety technical inspections at specified intervals from the date of registration.
I frequently go off-roading, and installing an auxiliary fuel tank is mainly to carry extra fuel for long-distance overlanding, avoiding frequent refueling. However, whether it passes the annual inspection depends on a few key points. First, the installation must comply with regulations—using OEM or certified parts is essential, as random modifications may lead inspection stations to deem it an unsafe alteration of the vehicle's structure. Second, the auxiliary tank must be securely fixed in an appropriate location, such as the trunk or undercarriage, to prevent leakage or collision risks. Third, it’s best to declare the modification in advance—having proper documentation increases the chances of passing inspection. Last year, I installed one, registered it with the DMV, and passed on the first try. But if done without proper procedures and found non-compliant, it may fail. In short, off-roading needs are valid, but legal and safe practices are a must.