Will the traffic police check if the car is equipped with shorter springs?
3 Answers
Replacing the springs with shorter ones can pass the annual inspection as it does not alter the vehicle's structure or characteristics. However, assembling motor vehicles or modifying the registered structure, construction, or characteristics of a motor vehicle without authorization; changing the model, engine number, chassis number, or vehicle identification number; or using the registration certificate, license plate, driving license, inspection qualification mark, or insurance mark of another motor vehicle will not pass the annual inspection. Below is relevant information: Body color: Comparatively, China has relatively lenient regulations on changing the body color, as it does not significantly affect the vehicle itself. However, private cars cannot use the special colors designated for specific vehicles, such as the dedicated color for fire trucks (R03 bright red) or the color for administrative law enforcement vehicles (blue on top and white on the bottom). Engine: Generally, the engine is not allowed to be replaced. However, if it is damaged or has quality issues, an application for modification can be submitted. When applying for an engine change, the owner needs to provide proof from a certified repair shop and the source certificate of the replacement engine.
I've handled numerous car modification inquiries, and the probability of being checked by traffic police for installing lowering springs is quite high in China. Short springs alter the original vehicle height and lower the chassis, making such suspension modifications a key focus for traffic police during roadside inspections as they violate motor vehicle safety technical standards. If caught, you typically face fines of one to two thousand yuan and may even have your vehicle impounded until the modifications are reversed. I recommend first checking the local vehicle management regulations, as some regions allow registered modifications but the process is cumbersome. It's best not to tamper with the suspension system recklessly to avoid both safety hazards and legal troubles. Such modifications also tend to fail inspections easily. Consulting a reputable shop to assess legality beforehand is wise—safety should always come first.
As a car modification enthusiast, I know that lowering springs make the car look much cooler, but it inevitably attracts police attention. In cities, modified cars are strictly monitored, and even a slight lowering of the body makes it stand out. I have friends who were stopped at intersections, had their hoods inspected, received tickets, and had to go through re-inspections, which cost both time and money. My advice is to choose less noticeable height adjustments or only modify cars for suburban use, where you can argue that it's stock if questioned by the police. Additionally, the quality of the springs affects handling—poor-quality parts can lead to bumpy rides and loss of control, increasing the risk of accidents. It might be more practical to save that money for tire maintenance instead.
