Does replacing the front grille in 2021 require registration?
3 Answers
Replacing the front grille in 2021 does not require registration. The Ministry of Public Security will adjust the vehicle annual inspection items, and the new regulations will be implemented on January 1, 2021. The adjustments for private vehicle annual inspections in the new regulations are as follows: 1. Additional inspection step: In the online verification items, a "safety defect recall" step will be added. During the online verification, if the vehicle has safety issues under recall, the staff will remind the owner to check the recall status. 2. Clarification of appearance inspection scope: The new regulations explicitly state that modifications to the front grille, wheel rims, roof racks, running boards, and bumpers are allowed. 3. Method for updating the vehicle registration certificate after changing the front grille: After modifying the front grille, you must register and declare the changes at the vehicle management office within 10 days. Once approved by the vehicle management office, prepare the required materials to complete the modification change procedures.
Just helped a friend with this last week! For a 2021 car, changing the grille mainly depends on how you modify it. If the new grille is identical in shape to the original, even the emblem position remains unchanged, you generally don't need to file for modification. However, if you switch to a sporty version with fangs or alter the emblem size—even by just 2 centimeters—you must visit the DMV. Last year, I skipped filing when I installed a honeycomb grille and got stuck during the annual inspection, ending up making two rainy trips to the DMV for new photos. My advice: check the original specs before swapping, and if unsure, call 12123—it's more reliable than scrolling through forums for hours.
From a regulatory perspective: Replacing the front grille constitutes an alteration to the vehicle's appearance. According to Article 16 of the 'Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations,' if the new grille changes the vehicle's length or width, obscures the logo, or affects identification features, it must be registered within 10 days. In practice, three points should be noted: first, the new grille must retain the original logo mounting position; second, avoid installing non-compliant devices such as auxiliary lights; third, after modification, bring the vehicle license, registration certificate, and ID card to the DMV for re-photographing. Last year, a local car enthusiast was fined 500 yuan for installing a sports car-style grille due to exceeding the allowable opening ratio of the grille.