Is Installing a Rear Spoiler on a Car Illegal?
3 Answers
Installing a rear spoiler on a car is not illegal. Here are the relevant details: 1. When modifying a rear spoiler, the car owner must file a report with the vehicle management office in advance. After the modification is completed, they must also take new photos to update the vehicle registration certificate. 2. A car rear spoiler refers to a ducktail-like protrusion installed at the rear end of the car's trunk lid. It is part of the car's aerodynamic kit and primarily serves to reduce lift at the rear of the vehicle. The following vehicle modifications are not considered illegal: 1. Rear spoiler modification: When modifying a rear spoiler, the car owner must file a report with the vehicle management office in advance. After the modification is completed, they must also take new photos to update the vehicle registration certificate. 2. Body color: The body color can be changed, but the owner must take new photos and apply for a change of registration with the vehicle management office within 10 days. Certain color schemes used by law enforcement vehicles are not allowed to be modified. 3. Partial paintwork: If the change in body color covers less than 30% of the vehicle, there is no need to update the vehicle registration certificate. Additionally, wheels can be modified, but their size must remain the same as the original. The color or appearance can be changed freely, and no special registration for the change is required.
As a car enthusiast, I've modified my own vehicle, including installing a spoiler to enhance visual appeal and aerodynamic performance. In China, this isn't directly illegal, but it must comply with the Road Traffic Safety Law. If the spoiler is oversized or affects vehicle stability, driving without registration could be deemed illegal modification, facing fines or even vehicle impoundment. I recommend first measuring if the dimensions are within permitted limits, such as not exceeding the original body contour and avoiding license plate obstruction. Then, register for approval at the local vehicle management office to ensure safety. For daily driving, regularly check screw fastenings post-modification to prevent detachment at high speeds causing accidents. Many car enthusiasts overlook this, leading to unnecessary troubles. Remember to control expenses reasonably and not sacrifice practicality for cool looks.
I have over 15 years of driving experience and have witnessed firsthand the problems caused by reckless spoiler modifications. According to regulations, spoilers are not illegal as long as they are reasonably designed and installed. However, altering the original vehicle structure—such as extending or raising the spoiler, which increases wind resistance and particularly raises the risk of rollover during sharp turns—will be considered a violation by traffic police. Safety should always come first, so I recommend choosing OEM or certified parts and consulting a repair shop to test the impact before making any modifications. Additionally, modified vehicles may fail annual inspections, requiring extra time and money for rework. Sharing a personal experience: a friend of mine was fined on the spot because his small spoiler exceeded size limits—a costly lesson. In summary, always weigh the pros and cons to avoid major losses over minor gains.
