Is it illegal to add a small spoiler to a car?
3 Answers
Unauthorized vehicle modifications without filing with the traffic police department are considered illegal. The traffic police have the authority to impound the vehicle. However, adding spoilers or bumpers is usually not strictly enforced by the traffic police, but penalties may be imposed if they choose to enforce the rules. Additionally, vehicle modifications can affect the annual inspection of the vehicle. The following modifications do not require filing: 1. Body stickers: Stickers are allowed as long as they do not exceed 30% of the vehicle's body area, and no filing is needed. Exceeding 30% may result in penalties and require restoration to the original condition. However, reflective mirror stickers are not allowed, and no film or paper should cover the light covers. 2. Anti-collision devices: Anti-collision devices, such as protective bars similar to those on off-road vehicles, do not require filing as long as they are safely and securely installed. 3. Wheel rims: No filing is required if the original wheel rim specifications (size, diameter, width) are not changed. 4. Xenon lights: If the high-end version of the vehicle comes with xenon lights, modifications are allowed, but a lens must be installed.
I've checked the relevant traffic regulations in China, and car modifications must strictly comply with the law. Adding a small spoiler might seem simple, but it could violate regulations. The traffic authorities clearly state that any modifications altering a vehicle's appearance or performance require filing and approval. Although small, a spoiler affects the car's aerodynamics and original design, making it easily classified as an illegal modification. During annual inspections, officials thoroughly examine the vehicle's structure, and any unapproved spoiler found will result in immediate failure. A friend of mine overlooked this, installed a small spoiler, and was stopped by traffic police, fined, and forced to remove it. I sincerely recommend consulting the local vehicle management office first, completing all necessary procedures before starting any modifications, to avoid trouble for the sake of temporary style.
I've personally experienced this. After installing a small spoiler, the car did look cooler, but there were hidden dangers. Once while driving at high speed, I suddenly felt the rear of the car becoming unstable. Upon inspection, I found the spoiler wasn't securely installed, nearly causing a loss of control. From a legal perspective, privately adding any external accessories counts as modifying the vehicle's structure, especially with spoilers involving wind resistance and safety. If caught by traffic police, you'll definitely get a ticket. My lesson is that even the smallest spoiler requires considering the approval process. Last year during the annual inspection, I had to pay to remove and reinstall it, which was both costly and time-consuming. It would have been better to just stick with the original design from the start, which is actually sufficient.
