Will modifying car lights to LED result in a fine?
3 Answers
Modifying car lights to LED may result in a fine. Here is the relevant information: 1. Regulations: According to China's "Road Traffic Safety Law," no unit or individual may assemble motor vehicles or alter the registered structure, construction, or features of a motor vehicle without authorization. Any unauthorized modifications to the chassis, engine, suspension, transmission system, steering system, tires and rims, lights, body color painting, or exterior structure of a motor vehicle without approval from the public security traffic management department, as well as any technical data of the motor vehicle that does not match the data announced by the State Council's motor vehicle product authority, are considered modifications. 2. Penalties: Currently, China has not issued any policies regarding point deductions for modified car lights, and offenders are generally ordered to revert the modifications within a specified period. However, some regions enforce strict regulations on modified headlights, treating the modification of original headlights as illegal lighting alterations, resulting in a penalty of 3 points deducted from the driver's license and a fine of 200 yuan.
As a friend who often researches car modifications, I've found that whether modifying LED lights results in fines mainly depends on compliance. According to the national 'Technical Conditions for Safe Operation of Motor Vehicles,' the color temperature of vehicle lights must not exceed 6000K, and the original wiring structure of the vehicle cannot be altered without authorization. I've seen many cases where car enthusiasts were fined: for example, directly replacing halogen bulbs without adding lenses, causing scattered light to dazzle oncoming vehicles, resulting in an on-the-spot 200-yuan fine from traffic police. Another owner modified their lights to an ice-blue color and was directly deemed unqualified during the annual inspection. The proper procedure now is to purchase modification kits with lens assemblies, choosing warm white light with a color temperature below 5500K, and remember to register the changes with the vehicle management office after modification. Modifying car lights isn't just about fines—it also affects driving safety, so it's crucial not to take it lightly.
A veteran truck driver with 15 years of experience shares real enforcement insights: Last time at a highway rest area, I witnessed traffic police using professional light meters to inspect modified vehicle lights. They mainly check two things—whether the light intensity exceeds standards and if the beam angle has been altered. Nowadays, officers carry devices that directly measure lumen values; exceeding limits means an instant ticket. Urban enforcement is stricter—young drivers adding colored light strips or strobe functions face 500 RMB fines if caught. If an accident occurs due to lighting issues, full liability falls on you. Before modifying lights, consult GB4785 standards. After installation, adjust cutoff height against a wall at night—avoid dazzling other drivers' rearview mirrors to avoid scrutiny. Always keep modification receipts; they're essential for appeals if annual inspections fail.
