Does wheel hub color change require registration?
3 Answers
According to the "Motor Vehicle Inspection Work Regulations," changing the color of wheel hubs does not require registration, but the size of the wheel hubs must not be altered. For changes to the vehicle body color, Article 6 of Chapter 2 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law" stipulates that if the color change covers no more than 30% of the vehicle's surface area, no registration for modification is required. Conversely, if the change exceeds 30%, it must be registered, and the modification must be recorded within 10 days after the color change. Notes on vehicle color changes: 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. If the region does not support this modification, the registration process cannot be completed after the change, and the vehicle must be restored to its original color. Documents required for applying to change the vehicle body color: "Motor Vehicle Modification Registration Application Form." Original and photocopy of the identity documents of the vehicle owner and their agent. Motor vehicle registration certificate. Motor vehicle driving license. Additionally, according to the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations," vehicle owners are no longer required to apply to the vehicle management office in advance. 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. According to Article 10, if a registered motor vehicle undergoes any of the following changes, the owner must apply for modification registration with the local vehicle management office: Change of body color. Replacement of the engine. Replacement of the body or frame. Replacement of the entire vehicle due to quality issues. Change of use nature, such as converting a commercial vehicle to a non-commercial vehicle or vice versa. Change of the vehicle owner's residence, moving into or out of 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 display designated markings and install alarms and signal lights as required. Other motor vehicles are prohibited from displaying, installing, or using markings, alarms, or signal lights that are exclusive to or resemble those of the aforementioned vehicles. Article 56 of the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations" states that if a body color change is not registered as required, the traffic management department of the public security authority may issue a warning or impose a fine. The vehicle may also be impounded and required to revert to its original color.
Whether wheel color modification requires registration depends on the specific situation. According to vehicle management regulations, if it's just a simple color change, such as painting or wrapping, without altering the wheel size or shape, it generally doesn't require registration, as it doesn't affect vehicle identification or safety parameters. I've seen many car owners in car enthusiast groups who modified their wheel colors and passed inspections without issues. However, the color shouldn't be too exaggerated, like fluorescent colors, which might be considered illegal modifications and could lead to penalties. If you change the wheel size or track width, you must register the changes and update the vehicle license at the local DMV; otherwise, you might fail the annual inspection and face fines. I recommend checking local regulations or consulting professional modification shops before starting the project to avoid unnecessary risks. After modification, regularly check the wheel balance to ensure the color coating doesn't affect wheel rotation, ensuring a safer drive.
As an average car owner, I've changed my wheel colors a few times without encountering registration issues. I used spray film, which is simple, affordable, and mainly for aesthetic enhancement. From my experience, as long as you don't alter the wheel size—just changing the color to black or silver—it's generally legally permissible. However, if modifications are too extreme, like installing larger rims with bright colors, police might pull you over for inspection, requiring explanations or supplementary registration. Remember to choose non-toxic materials when recoloring; avoid cheap, inferior products to prevent paint peeling that could compromise driving safety. After modification, drive safely and ensure your vehicle passes annual inspections. If in doubt, take photos and confirm with the DMV to save hassle.
