Does installing a sporty small body kit on a car require registration?
2 Answers
This small body kit does not require registration as it does not exceed regulations. Below are relevant details: Registration requirements: According to Article [X] of the 'Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations', registered motor vehicles must apply for modification registration with the local vehicle management office under the following circumstances: changing body color, replacing body or frame. Notes on vehicle modifications: For exterior modifications, the installation of exterior parts must ensure they do not harm pedestrians during use and must not exceed certain proportions of the vehicle's dimensions. Car tires can only be replaced with original factory tire rims; installing sports car tires or significantly larger/wider tires that are visibly unsuitable for the vehicle body is prohibited.
As a car enthusiast, I'm quite familiar with installing sporty body kits and feel I can share some experience. In China, you need to be cautious about regulations when modifying cars. According to the latest rules, if the body kit alters the vehicle's appearance or dimensions—for example, increasing the length by more than 3 centimeters—you must register the changes with the vehicle management office. Otherwise, if caught by traffic police while driving, you could face fines or penalty points, and it may cause issues during the annual inspection. My personal experience was that after installing a body kit without registration, my car was rejected during the annual inspection, forcing me to spend money removing and reinstalling it. My advice is not to rush into modifications; first, check the specific policies at your local vehicle management office. Bring your ID and vehicle license, fill out a form, and get the car inspected—the process is simple and quick. Skipping registration might save minor hassle, but the risks and extra costs make it not worth it.
