Will adding a front splitter through modification get you caught by traffic police?

[SanLilah]

Yes, you may get caught. According to the new "Road Traffic Safety Law," it is explicitly stipulated that no unit or individual may assemble motor vehicles or alter the registered structure, construction, or characteristics of a motor vehicle without authorization. The structure of a vehicle includes the body color, length, width, height (four rigid standards), and relevant technical parameters of the engine. Below is more related information: 1. Vehicle Modification: Vehicle decoration relates to the safety performance of the vehicle, and modifications may have an even greater impact on safety. When performing vehicle decoration or modification, one should fully understand its impact on the vehicle's safety performance. If applying to change the body color, replace the body or frame, Car Accessories Home recommends that the owner fill out the "Motor Vehicle Modification Registration Application Form" at the vehicle management office and submit the required legal certificates and proofs. The vehicle management office will decide whether to approve or deny the modification within one day of receiving the application. If the modification is approved, the owner must submit the vehicle for inspection within ten days after the modification. The vehicle management office will confirm the motor vehicle within one day of receiving the application, reclaim the original driving license, and reissue a new one. For body or frame replacements, the office will also verify the imprint of the vehicle identification number (frame number) and retain the origin certificate of the body or frame. 2. Penalties for Illegal Modifications: According to the relevant provisions of the Ministry of Public Security's "Motor Vehicle Registration Measures," changing tire specifications, modifying the intake system, or modifying the exhaust system of in-use vehicles are not permitted modifications under national regulations. If modifications affect driving safety, the owner of the illegally modified motor vehicle will be fined 500-1,000 yuan and ordered to restore the vehicle to its original condition.

[VonReid]

I've been into car modifications for several years, and adding a front splitter is indeed quite sensitive in China. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, vehicle body appearance cannot be altered without authorization. Installing a front splitter can easily make the car appear too low or too high, which traffic police can spot immediately during inspections. Especially during nighttime or random checks, the risks double. I suggest you first check with your local vehicle management office about the filing process, or opt for legal modification parts with certifications. From a safety perspective, an improperly adjusted front splitter height can scrape against the road surface, affecting handling and potentially creating hazards. Some cities now enforce strict penalties, with fines and demerit points, which just isn't worth it. In short, don't rush into installing one just for looks—get all the facts before deciding.

[VanJasper]

I have a modified car with a front lip spoiler. It's usually fine driving in the city, but once I was stopped at a highway toll booth. The traffic police said I altered the vehicle's characteristics, fined me 300 yuan, and required me to restore it to its original condition. This taught me that luck plays a big role—it's all about location and timing. In suburban areas or during off-peak hours, you might pass easily, but during crackdown seasons or in sensitive areas, there's no avoiding it. Additionally, insurance companies may use modification records as an excuse to deny claims, leading to bigger losses. My friend's car had an accident involving the front lip, and the claim process was a nightmare. Before modifying, weigh the risks carefully. Getting it installed at a reputable shop is the bare minimum—don't sacrifice safety and financial security just for looks.

[SanDerek]

The probability of getting caught for adding a front splitter is high, and the consequences can be troublesome. After understanding the regulations, I learned that traffic police have the authority to fine between 200-500 yuan, and even deduct points. Illegal modifications also affect annual inspections, making the vehicle unable to be driven on the road. During daily driving, especially in city centers or during peak holiday periods, it's more noticeable and increases the chance of being checked. Worse, if the front splitter is poorly designed, it can reduce headlight effectiveness, increasing the risk of accidents at night. Regarding insurance, claims may be denied if an accident occurs. Always check local regulations before modifying—some places allow it with proper registration. Don’t act blindly. Safety should always come first.

[VanKai]

If you want to modify the front lip, choose compliant accessories and ensure the height doesn't exceed the headlight or tire standards, maintaining an OEM look as much as possible. Have it installed at a reputable shop and keep the receipts for future reference. Avoid strict enforcement areas like schools or checkpoints when driving; keeping a low profile at night in the city is usually fine. I've tried adding a small front lip without issues—just keep the design simple and understated. After the modification, report it to the DMV for peace of mind. Regularly check the connecting parts to prevent loosening and potential hazards. Overall, moderate modifications are feasible but require careful planning.