Is It Illegal to Change the Bumper Style?
2 Answers
If the modification of the bumper is not approved by the traffic management department in advance, it is illegal, and the vehicle cannot be driven on the road or pass the annual inspection normally. According to the relevant provisions of the current "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations," any changes to the body color, model, performance, purpose, and structure of a licensed motor vehicle, as well as the replacement of the frame, body, or engine, must be applied for change registration with the vehicle management office. Actions such as installing a spoiler, adding a full body kit, or modifying the exhaust pipe are, in principle, not allowed. Below is more information about car bumpers: 1. Function: The front and rear ends of a car are equipped with bumpers, which not only have a decorative function but are also important safety devices that absorb and mitigate external impacts, protecting the car body and the safety of passengers. 2. Structural composition: The outer panel and buffer material are made of plastic, and the crossbeam is pressed into a U-shaped channel from cold-rolled sheet metal about 1.5 mm thick. The outer panel and buffer material are attached to the crossbeam, which is connected to the longitudinal beams of the car frame with screws and can be disassembled at any time. 3. Non-compliant products: According to tests by authoritative quality inspection departments, the consequences of damages caused by products that do not meet the industry standard for "Automobile Protective Bumpers" shall be legally borne by the production enterprises and sellers.
I specialize in traffic regulations and often help people analyze modification issues. Changing the style of a bumper isn't necessarily illegal, but it depends on the specifics. In China, vehicle bumpers must comply with GB standards regarding dimensions, height, and material requirements. The original factory design is intended to protect pedestrians and absorb impact. If you switch to an exaggerated off-road style or add metal skid plates, it may exceed safety limits, and traffic police could classify it as illegal modification during inspections, leading to fines, point deductions, or failed annual inspections. I've seen cases where owners installed thin plastic bumpers for a cool look, only for them to crack in minor accidents, resulting in medical compensation for the other party. Safety should always come first—consult a professional repair shop before making changes to ensure compliance with regulations and avoid trouble. Also, enforcement varies by region, with stricter checks in big cities, so don't take chances.
