Illegal Car Mods: Here's What Can Get You in Trouble with the Law in India
Automotive enthusiasts in India often have a strong desire to customize their cars, making them unique and reflective of their personal style. These changes can range from cosmetic changes to performance enhancements. However, not all modifications are permitted under Indian law. It is important to understand what is legal and what is not otherwise you could end up in jail or paying heavy fines.
Illegal car modification in India
Some modifications are illegal in India due to safety and regulatory concerns. Check out Illegal Car Modification in India.
Tinted Windows: The law requires that the front and rear windows of any car must allow at least 70% visible light transmission, and the side windows must allow at least 50%. Dark-tinted windows that do not meet these requirements are illegal.
Bull Bars: Bull bars can compromise the structural integrity of a car and pose a safety hazard to both pedestrians and occupants. They can interfere with the proper deployment of airbags during a crash. Therefore, it is illegal to install bull bars.
Fancy number plate: Use of fancy number plate is illegal. All vehicles must have a high security number plate with 3D hallmarked IND letters.
Changing the body type: Changing the structural type of the car, such as converting a sedan to a limousine or making it a convertible, is strictly prohibited. Such modifications can weaken the chassis and compromise safety. If you are thinking of customizing your vehicle by changing its structure, be aware that this can be a significant hassle. You will get Rs. may face heavy fines up to 5,000 or up to six months in jail for each change. According to a 2019 Supreme Court ruling, it is illegal to alter or modify a vehicle to deviate from the manufacturer’s specifications. Therefore, tampering with the infrastructure of your vehicle is prohibited.
Engine Swapping: Swapping of car engines is illegal unless approved by the RTO. The registration certificate must always match the chassis and engine number of the vehicle.
