Table of Contents
Introduction
People opt for car modification to make their vehicles stand out in the crowd. With exclusive design and appearance alterations, your car will catch your attention instantly. Who wouldn’t like some attention, after all? Did you know that unauthorized modifications might land you in trouble?
In India, there are legal regulations governing the modification of vehicles, including cars. The modifications allowed depend on safety standards, emissions regulations, and roadworthiness requirements. Here are some key points regarding legal modifications to cars in India.
Legal Modifications to Cars
Color
The Colour of the car can be changed without any much issue. You can choose any new color for your vehicle, except Army Green since Army Green is allotted only for military vehicles. You must obtain approval from the RTO for a change of color and the new color spec must be entered in the RC book.
Alloy Wheels and Tyres
Upgrading to alloy wheels can enhance the appearance and performance of your car. In India, changing to aftermarket alloy wheels and tires within the prescribed size limits is generally allowed. However, it’s essential to ensure that the new wheels and tires maintain the recommended width, diameter, and load-bearing capacity.
Window Tinting
Adding window tints can provide privacy and reduce heat inside the car. In India, window tinting is permitted, but there are specific guidelines to follow:
- Front windshield: A thin strip of tint is allowed at the top, while the rest of the windshield must remain untinted.
- Rear windshield and side windows: Tinting is allowed up to a certain darkness percentage, usually around 70%
Lighting Upgrades
Enhancing your car’s lighting can improve visibility and aesthetics. Legal lighting modifications in India include:
- Upgrading to brighter or more efficient headlights, within permissible wattage limits.
- Adding auxiliary lights, such as fog lamps, that adhere to specified brightness and positioning regulations.
CNG Conversion
Converting your car to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) is allowed in India. However, the conversion should be performed by authorized centers and follow safety guidelines to prevent leaks and ensure proper functioning.
Roof Racks and Carriers
Installing roof racks and carriers to increase storage capacity is generally allowed. However, ensure that the additional weight does not exceed the car’s load-bearing capacity and affect its stability.
Audio System Upgrades
Upgrading your car’s audio system for enhanced entertainment is allowed. However, be mindful of the volume levels, especially in residential areas, to avoid violating noise pollution regulations.
Exhaust
You must get clear approval from the RTO if you want to change the exhaust. Exhausts that cause sound pollution above 100 decibels are strictly prohibited. The exhausts you install should not disturb other motorists and pedestrians on the road.
Number Plate
Fancy number plates are not permissible as per the existing motor vehicle regulations.
Roof
Integrating the sunroof, changing the roof design, etc are prohibited as per the extant regulations.
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