Should Car Modifications Be Done Before or After License Plate Registration?
4 Answers
First register the license plate, then proceed with modifications. Detailed Explanation: Currently, China's policies on car modifications are relatively restrictive. For example, the government allows modifications such as "gasoline to natural gas conversion" and "interior replacements," but major modifications in other areas are not permitted. This leads to issues with license plate registration for modifications in non-approved areas. If unapproved modifications are performed, the vehicle will not be eligible for license plate registration or annual inspections. Additional Information: Regarding annual inspections for modified vehicles after registration, when the periodic inspection comes up, the car can be handed over to a "vehicle inspection agent." If the owner insists on handling the inspection personally, the vehicle must be restored to its original condition before passing. Additionally, cars require regular annual inspections.
During my years as a car owner, I've always adhered to the principle of registering the vehicle before making any modifications. I remember a few years ago when I bought a new car, I couldn't resist the temptation and modified the exhaust system before completing the license plate registration. As a result, the vehicle was rejected at the DMV, forcing me to revert it back to the factory settings—wasting both money and time. A vehicle must meet factory standards to pass registration inspection; otherwise, modifications like spoilers, chassis alterations, or engine changes will be deemed illegal. Only after registration can you freely make minor modifications such as applying wraps, changing lights, or upgrading rims. However, ensure you file major modifications with the DMV to avoid issues during annual inspections. Those with ample budgets can consult professional shops to avoid repeating mistakes, as road safety should always come first.
Modified cars are truly exciting, especially for us young enthusiasts who often can't wait to make changes. For example, my friend who recently picked up his car immediately installed a body kit, only to get a ticket as soon as he hit the road. Remember, you must first register the car before making any modifications, because only the factory condition can pass the license inspection. Otherwise, if caught by traffic police, the consequences can range from a warning to having the vehicle impounded. Once the car is properly registered, it's okay to make minor changes that don't affect core performance, like seat covers or audio systems. However, modifications like turbocharging the engine or altering the exhaust system require additional registration to comply with regulations. When modifying your car, understanding local laws can help minimize risks.
After all these years in auto repair, I always advise my clients: 'License first, modify later' is the golden rule. A new car must be in its original factory condition to pass license inspection before hitting the road—any modifications to circuits or suspension will get rejected. A common mistake is failing the inspection after brake upgrades, forcing a revert to stock. Post-licensing modifications like lighting or wraps must meet safety standards; certified shops are your best bet to avoid annual inspection hassles or fines.
