Can Vehicle Interior Modifications Pass Annual Inspection?
2 Answers
Vehicle interior modifications can pass annual inspection as long as they do not affect safe driving, and changing the interior decorations does not require applying for motor vehicle modification registration. If they affect safe driving, they will not pass the annual inspection. Annual inspection is legally required, meaning it is mandatory, and every vehicle on the road must undergo inspection. To make it more convenient for vehicle owners, the government has introduced a six-year exemption policy for new vehicles that meet the inspection requirements, allowing them to be exempt from annual inspection each year. The purpose of the annual inspection is to check: Whether the engine, chassis, body, and auxiliary equipment are clean, intact, and functional; whether the vehicle's paint is symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing; whether major general processes have been replaced and whether they match the initial inspection records. Whether the vehicle's braking performance, turning maneuverability, lighting, exhaust pipes, and other safety factors comply with the requirements of the "Technical Conditions for Safe Operation of Motor Vehicles." Whether the vehicle has been modified, altered, or reconstructed; whether all records such as the vehicle license, plate number, and vehicle files match the current condition of the vehicle and whether there have been any changes; whether approval, modification, or alteration procedures have been applied for. Whether the license plate printed on the vehicle, the vehicle license, and the enlarged license plate characters are damaged or illegible, etc., and whether they need to be replaced.
When I was younger, I was addicted to modifying car interiors, and every annual inspection was a headache to figure out if it would pass. Interior modifications like changing seats or adding screens mainly depend on whether they affect safety. My experience is that modifications shouldn’t interfere with the original car structure, such as airbag positions or seatbelt anchor points. Minor changes like altering colors or adding floor mats are usually fine. But once, I installed racing seats improperly, and they failed the inspection because loose seats posed a risk. Before major modifications, I recommend consulting the vehicle management office or a professional modification shop and keeping receipts for verification. Annual inspections aren’t meant to hassle people—they’re there to ensure road safety. When modifying, choose compliant parts and don’t cut corners. In short, a stylish interior is great, but safety comes first for worry-free driving.
