Do I Need to Register a Color Change for Car Wheels?

[Barry]

Changing the color of car wheels does not require registration as long as the model, size, and dimensions of the wheels remain unchanged. According to Article 6, Chapter 2 of the Road Traffic Safety Law, if the color change area of a motor vehicle does not exceed 30%, no registration for modification is required. Conversely, if it exceeds 30%, the change must be registered and documented within 10 days after the color modification. Precautions for Vehicle Color Change: Before changing the color of a motor vehicle, it is necessary to consult the local vehicle management office where the vehicle is registered to confirm whether the region permits color changes for motor vehicles. If the region does not support this practice, the modification cannot be registered, and the vehicle must be restored to its original color. Documents Required for Applying to Change the Body Color of a Motor Vehicle: "Application Form for Motor Vehicle Modification Registration." Proof of identity and copies for both the vehicle owner and the agent. Motor vehicle registration certificate. Motor vehicle driving license. Clearance of all fines. Additionally, according to Article 10 of the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations," vehicle owners are no longer required to apply in advance to the vehicle management office. They can first change the vehicle color, install body kits, replace the engine, etc., and then apply for modification registration with the vehicle management office. Furthermore, registered motor vehicles must apply for modification registration with the local vehicle management office under the following circumstances: Change of body color. Replacement of the engine. Replacement of the body or frame. Whole vehicle replacement due to quality issues. Change of usage nature, such as converting a commercial vehicle to a non-commercial vehicle or vice versa. Change of the vehicle owner's residence into or out of the jurisdiction of the vehicle management office. Additionally, according to Article 15 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and engineering rescue vehicles must be painted with designated patterns and equipped with alarms and signal lights as required. Other motor vehicles are prohibited from painting, installing, or using patterns, alarms, or signal lights that are exclusive to these vehicles or similar to them.

[OmarLynn]

As an experienced car enthusiast who frequently engages in modifications, I can confidently tell you that changing the color of your rims does not require registration. Only changes to the body color need to be reported to the DMV. Altering rim colors is like changing shoe colors—it doesn't count as modifying core components. However, if you also change the rim size, such as upgrading to larger rims, it might affect vehicle performance and safety, so check local regulations to avoid fines. I've personally done rim painting multiple times—using high-temperature-resistant paint and thoroughly cleaning the surface is crucial. DIY is cost-effective and convenient. Wrapping is another good option, especially for beginners, though it may wear over time. In short, minor color changes offer great freedom—enjoy the customization process, but avoid being too flashy to prevent unnecessary attention on the road.

[JudeDella]

I just spray-painted my car's rims a trendy new color. No registration is required at all - only full body color changes need to be registered, as rims are just minor accessories. But make sure the rim size hasn't increased or decreased, otherwise you might get in trouble if inspected. I used regular spray paint costing just over ten yuan - after cleaning the rims, a few light coats gave pretty good results. Recommend choosing neutral tones like gray or black, as overly flashy colors might attract traffic police attention. People often say DIY color changes are cost-effective and fun, though wraps are prone to damage and less durable. Overall, feel free to experiment boldly, just keep the original specifications for safety.

[AnnieLynn]

Veteran drivers with decades of experience suggest that wheel hub color modification doesn't require registration. The registration system only applies to body color changes like repainting. Altering wheel hub color is generally fine, but avoid installing wheels of different sizes to prevent violations. Both spray painting and wrapping are acceptable methods, though professional shops are recommended for optimal aesthetics and durability. Simple modifications can refresh your car's appearance, but safe driving remains paramount.