Is Installing a Roof Rack Considered Illegal?
2 Answers
Privately installing a roof rack is not considered illegal as long as it does not exceed the specified height. Exceeding the height limit will result in a 1-point deduction by traffic police. Below is more information about installing roof racks on vehicles: 1. Legal Basis: Article 54 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law Implementation Regulations." 2. Height Regulations: (1) For heavy and medium-duty trucks, semi-trailer cargo, the height from the ground must not exceed 4 meters; for vehicles carrying containers, it must not exceed 4.2 meters. (2) For other cargo-carrying motor vehicles, the height from the ground must not exceed 2.5 meters. (3) For motorcycles, the height from the ground must not exceed 1.5 meters, and the length must not exceed the body by 0.2 meters. The width of cargo on two-wheeled motorcycles must not exceed the handlebars by 0.15 meters on each side; for three-wheeled motorcycles, the width must not exceed the body. Passenger vehicles are not allowed to carry cargo except on external roof racks and built-in luggage compartments. For passenger vehicles, cargo on roof racks must not exceed 0.5 meters in height from the roof or 4 meters in height from the ground.
As someone who frequently deals with cars, I believe installing a roof rack depends on local regulations. In China, laws strictly stipulate that vehicle modifications must not exceed limits, such as the height or size of the roof rack, otherwise it’s considered illegal modification. I’ve seen many car owners fined for improper installations, which also affect annual inspections. Safety-wise, original designs account for wind resistance and stability, and haphazard installations can lead to accidents, like luggage falling and injuring others at high speeds, with full liability on the owner. Don’t cut corners or save money by going to roadside shops—check DMV regulations or consult professionals first to ensure every detail is compliant. Legal installation is fine, practical and safe.
