How Many Points Are Deducted for Launch Control Start?
3 Answers
Performing a launch control start at a traffic light is considered a traffic violation and will result in a fine and a deduction of 3 points. As a racing technique, launch control is recommended to be attempted on closed roads or race tracks. Using launch control on public roads where traffic is operational is considered a dangerous behavior. The following are related introductions to launch control: Introduction 1: Launch control is an acceleration technique that uses the transmission to adjust the engine speed to the output platform of maximum torque, allowing the engine to deliver maximum torque from the moment of takeoff, achieving the best acceleration. Introduction 2: In various famous acceleration competitions, almost all racing cars use methods such as increasing turbo pressure, using semi-slick tires, and filling with racing fuel. Additionally, one essential acceleration technique is launch control. Introduction 3: Another technique derived from this is the burn-out start, where excessive throttle is applied to make the rear wheels spin, producing a large amount of smoke.
The term "launch control" itself is not illegal, but the operation often triggers two types of penalties: First, severe speeding—for example, accelerating to 80 km/h instantly on urban roads, which results in an immediate 6-point deduction. Second, dangerous driving behavior. Last year, there was a case where a driver performed a launch control tailspin at a green light and nearly hit a pedestrian, leading to a fine and 2-point deduction for "endangering safe driving." I’ve personally seen traffic police specifically target launch control at car meetups—the louder the engine roar, the higher the chance of being pulled over. Most critically, the sudden loss of traction is extremely dangerous; attempting launch control in rainy conditions guarantees wheel spin. If you really want to experience launch control, it’s best to do it at a track day. Doing it on public roads not only risks losing your license points but also voids insurance coverage in case of an accident.
Whether points are deducted from your driver's license depends on the specific situation. Last week, a car enthusiast in the group tested it out—ordinary traffic light launches are generally ignored by traffic police as long as you don't speed or fishtail. However, three things to note: if you're caught doing a continuous burnout start, it counts as dangerous driving, and you'll definitely lose 3 points and 200 RMB; if your high-revving start gets reported for noise pollution, there's a case in Beijing where 1 point was deducted; if it causes a rear-end collision, you'll be fully at fault and face additional point deductions. Personally, I hardly ever use the launch control on my performance car—it's too hard on the transmission, and the repair costs could cover ten fines. If you really want to try it, I suggest going to an expressway in the early hours and remember to close the exhaust valve.
