Is Brake Modification Considered Illegal?
2 Answers
Brake modification is not considered illegal as long as the braking force meets the required standards. The restrictions on vehicle modifications include: 1. Prohibited modifications: The vehicle model, engine model, and chassis number cannot be altered, and the basic structure of the vehicle body must not be compromised. 2. Vehicle inspection: If the vehicle's color is changed, or the engine, body, or chassis is replaced, the vehicle must be inspected at the DMV. 3. Submission of proof: When replacing the engine, body, or chassis, a valid motor vehicle safety technical inspection certificate must be submitted. 4. Vehicle appearance: The area covered by decals must not exceed 30% of the total body area. If it does, approval from the relevant authorities is required. Additionally, the vehicle's appearance must not undergo significant alterations and should remain largely consistent with the photo on the vehicle registration certificate.
I've studied various automotive regulations and believe that modifying brakes isn't necessarily illegal—it depends on how and where you do it. For instance, in China, using certified components like brake discs and pads with TUV or CCC marks, and ensuring the modifications don't affect factory settings such as the ABS system, is generally legal. However, some regions have stricter rules, requiring re-registration and inspection by the vehicle management office after modifications. Failing to do so could result in fines ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan during annual inspections, or even license revocation. I recommend checking local traffic laws before proceeding. Generally, replacing brake pads or minor upgrades are fine, but swapping entire caliper sets requires caution. Safety should always come first—legal modifications can improve braking performance, but ensure they don't disrupt the vehicle's balance.
