Is it illegal to convert from naturally aspirated to supercharged?

[DiBradley]

Converting from naturally aspirated to supercharged is illegal. There are two points about car modification parts: 1. Brake system: There are multiple methods to upgrade the brake system, such as replacing it with larger brake discs, multi-piston brake calipers, and high-performance, high-temperature resistant brake pads. You can also use higher-grade brake fluid or replace it with metal high-pressure brake hoses. Another method is to replace it with a larger brake master cylinder to increase the auxiliary thrust of the brake pedal; 2. Suspension system: The modification of the suspension system can be roughly divided into replacing shock absorbers, reinforcing suspension structural rods, and installing stabilizer bars. Among them, the most impactful and most commonly modified item is the shock absorber. The modification of shock absorbers actually involves replacing them with ones that have harder damping, better quality, and can fully cooperate with the springs.

[AlexanderRose]

When considering converting a naturally aspirated engine to a supercharged one, it's essential to start with the technical requirements. This modification is no small task—it involves replacing the intake system, installing the supercharger unit, and recalibrating the ECU to control fuel injection and ignition timing. The entire process is highly specialized, and if the tools or expertise are lacking, it can easily lead to engine overheating, cylinder knocking, or even permanent damage. After the modification, the original balance of the vehicle will be disrupted, requiring upgrades to the cooling system, for example, to avoid long-term operational risks. I recommend consulting a professional tuning shop to assess feasibility, as both safety and performance improvements must be carefully balanced—reckless modifications can lead to endless troubles. From a practical standpoint, even if technically feasible, many regions have legal restrictions on such powertrain modifications, so it's crucial to research the regulations beforehand.

[MacHazel]

Converting a naturally aspirated engine to a supercharger sounds tempting, but I must remind you to pay attention to safety issues. Forced induction increases engine load, and factory-designed components may not withstand the higher pressure, leading to risks like piston fractures or oil seal leaks, which can even cause engine fires in severe cases. Without reinforcing the braking system and suspension, vehicle handling becomes unstable at high speeds, significantly increasing the chance of accidents. As someone who frequently works on cars, I've seen many cases where owners encountered failures after unauthorized modifications—not only compromising safety but also wasting money. Legally, it's no easier; unapproved modifications can lead to vehicle impoundment during road inspections, posing multiple risks. If you're determined to proceed, prioritize comprehensive upgrades, such as installing more durable internal components, but always consult professionals to ensure compliance—don't gamble with safety.

[StJessica]

From a legal perspective, converting a naturally aspirated engine to a mechanically supercharged one is illegal in most parts of China. According to traffic regulations, any modification to the vehicle's powertrain performance must be registered with the vehicle management office; otherwise, it is considered an illegal modification. Based on my experience, driving without approval can result in hefty fines from traffic police, and the vehicle will fail the annual inspection, affecting normal usage. Other reasons include the modified emission system failing to meet environmental standards, increasing the risk of violations. It is advised that car owners check local specific regulations before modifications to avoid trouble—safety first is crucial. Simple modifications are not as hassle-free as directly switching to a factory-supercharged model, saving both time and money.