Does changing the color of the front grille require registration?

[LeFrank]

According to Article 6 of Chapter 2 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law," if the color change area of a motor vehicle does not exceed 30%, there is no need to apply for a change registration. Conversely, if it exceeds 30%, it must be registered and filed, and the registration must be completed within 10 days after the vehicle's color is changed. Notes on changing vehicle color: Before preparing to change the color of a motor vehicle, it is necessary to consult the vehicle management office where the vehicle is registered to confirm whether the region allows motor vehicles to change their color. If the region does not support this method, the registration procedure cannot be processed after the change, and the vehicle must be restored to its original color. Documents required for applying to change the body color of a motor vehicle: "Motor Vehicle Change Registration Application Form." Identity proof and copies of the motor vehicle owner and agent. Motor vehicle registration certificate. Motor vehicle driving license. Additionally, according to the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations," owners are no longer required to apply to the vehicle management office in advance. They can first change the vehicle's color, install body kits, replace the engine, etc., and then apply for a change registration with the vehicle management office. According to Article 10, registered motor vehicles must apply for a change registration with the local vehicle management office under the following circumstances: Changing the body color. Replacing the engine. Replacing the body or frame. Replacing the entire vehicle due to quality issues. Changing the use nature, such as converting a commercial vehicle to a non-commercial vehicle or vice versa. The motor vehicle owner's residence moves out of or into the jurisdiction of the vehicle management office. Furthermore, 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 or resemble those of the aforementioned vehicles. According to Article 56 of the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations," if the body color is changed without completing the required change registration, the public security traffic management department may issue a warning or impose a fine. The vehicle may also be impounded and required to revert to its original color.

[OBarrett]

I'm Old Zhang, a car enthusiast with years of experience in modifications. Changing the color of the front grille usually doesn't require registration because it's a small area and doesn't significantly alter the vehicle's appearance. I often help friends modify their grilles using wraps or paint, and after years of driving, the police haven't intervened. However, I must remind everyone that registration requirements vary by location: in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, regulations are stricter, and modifying bumpers or changing the color of headlights might require registration. It's best to take some time to visit the local DMV, fill out a simple form (free of charge), and get it done to avoid future hassles. In case of an accident, if modifications aren't registered, insurance companies might dispute or deny claims—this risk shouldn't be underestimated. So, registering modifications is always a safe bet. Modifications are fun, but legality and safety come first.