Is it illegal to change a black car to matte black?
2 Answers
Changing a black car to matte black is not illegal, but it requires applying for a modification with the vehicle management office. According to the regulations of the National Road Traffic Safety Law, the owner of a motor vehicle shall apply for modification registration with the vehicle management office at the place of registration under any of the following circumstances: 1. Changing the body color; 2. Replacing the engine; 3. Replacing the body or frame; 4. Replacing the entire vehicle due to quality issues; 5. Changing the use nature of the vehicle, such as converting a commercial vehicle to non-commercial use or vice versa; 6. The motor vehicle owner's residence moves out of or into the jurisdiction of the vehicle management office.
I've been driving for over twenty years and have seen many cases. Changing a black car to matte black isn't inherently illegal, but according to China's 'Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations,' you need to register the color change at the vehicle management office. The procedure is simple: within 10 days after changing the color, bring your ID card, driving license, and vehicle registration certificate, take a photo, fill out a form, and it's done for a few dozen yuan. If you don't do it, you could be fined 200 yuan, deducted 3 points, or even forced to restore the original color if caught on the road. My friend was fined for not doing it. Matte black has poor reflective properties, making it easier for other drivers to overlook at night. For safety and convenience, I suggest you register it as soon as possible to avoid trouble.
