Is car modification legal in India? Here is a checklist

It is not unusual to see car owners driving their cars from the showroom to the workshop. Outfitting a car to make it stand apart from the rest on the road is every car owner's desire. Though most minor modifications like leather seat covers and aftermarket alloy wheels do not violate the law, there are some that can land you in hot water with the cops.

In India, all aspects of road transport vehicles are governed by the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The Act has detailed guidelines on the registration of motor vehicles, driver and conductor licencing, traffic regulations, related liabilities, insurance, and penalties. 

Section 52 of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 describes the kind of modifications a car owner can and cannot make to the vehicle.

Illegal car modifications

1 Tinted Glasses

Motorists flout this traffic law very commonly. According to Rule 100 of Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) Acts 1989, the car's rear window and windscreen must have minimum visibility of at least 70 per cent. For the side windows, the minimum visibility required is 50 per cent.

2 Fancy Horns

Fancy horns, sirens and other pressure horns are illegal under the law and are punishable with hefty fines.

3 Loud Exhausts

The car's exhaust system regulates emissions and the overall sound levels. Vehicle owners prefer aftermarket exhausts. The logic given is that they sound 'great' with higher noise levels. However, while they may sound great, the music could sound different when traffic cops stop you.

4 Extra Lights

Among the parts that vehicle owners in most major cities are quick to replace are the standard headlight bulbs. They are replaced with brighter units. Some even change the colour of indicator bulbs and standard fog lights. However, this is illegal. According to the CMVR Act, a car's external bulb has a pre-determined colour theme. Tampering with it can cost you hefty fines.

Legal car modification

1 Car Colour

Do make it a point to update your registration certificate if you are opting to re-paint your car in a different colour. If the traffic police do manage to note a discrepancy here, you could be in trouble.

2 Upgrading the Tyres

Customers are legally allowed to replace their tyres as long as the manufacturer's specifications are met. However, when you do upgrade your tyres, do make sure you get a set with the same or higher load index and speed rating as the stock tyres.

3 Suspension Upgrade

Customers are allowed to improve the ride quality of the vehicle by going in for a better suspension. However, it would be dangerous to lower the car too much. 

4 Modification for the Differently-Abled

Modifying vehicles for people with disabilities allows them to drive on their own. Wheelchair lifts, adapted mirrors, automatic or hand-operated clutch, brakes and accelerator, and other modifications can make a vehicle accessible for the differently-abled

Information Courtesy: PBNS