Is replacing an LED bulb considered illegal modification?
2 Answers
Replacing a halogen bulb with an LED bulb is considered illegal modification, while replacing an LED bulb with another LED bulb is not. Unauthorized changes to vehicle parameters constitute illegal modification: Modifications such as changing vehicle tires and rims, adding spoilers, altering lights, or modifying exhaust pipes are all considered illegal modifications. These must be restored to their original condition to pass inspection, and violators may face penalties such as fines and license suspension. Legal basis: According to Article 97 of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China: No unit or individual may assemble a motor vehicle or alter the registered structure, construction, or characteristics of a motor vehicle without authorization.
Whether replacing bulbs with LED ones counts as illegal modification depends on the specific situation. In our region, traffic regulations stipulate that modified bulbs must not exceed the brightness standards set by the original manufacturer or alter the beam pattern, to avoid creating glare hazards for other drivers. If your LED bulbs are certified, such as meeting ECE or DOT standards, and the installed lights do not scatter randomly, then it generally isn't considered illegal. However, many people opt for cheap, non-compliant LEDs that are too dazzling or have incorrect angles, which could lead to fines if stopped by the police or even affect annual inspections. From my experience with car modifications, it's best to choose branded products and have them professionally installed and adjusted rather than doing it haphazardly yourself. Additionally, laws vary significantly by location—for example, enforcement is stricter in big cities and more lenient in rural areas—so checking local traffic regulations before heading out is advisable.
