Car modifications can enhance style and performance, but not all modifications are legal. Here are 21 illegal car modifications that can get you in trouble with the law across various states.
1. Dark Window Tinting
Excessively dark window tints that restrict visibility are illegal in many states due to safety concerns.
2. Loud Exhaust Systems
Modifications that significantly increase noise, like certain aftermarket exhaust systems, can violate noise ordinance laws.
3. Emission System Removal
Removing or tampering with the emissions control system of a car is illegal under federal law, including the catalytic converter.
4. Neon Underglow Lights
While not universally illegal, many states have restrictions on the type and color of underglow lighting due to distraction and impersonation of law enforcement vehicles.
5. Radar Detectors (in certain states)
In some states, including Virginia and Washington D.C., using radar detectors is illegal.
6. License Plate Covers
Smoked or tinted license plate covers that obscure the visibility of the plate numbers are illegal in many states.
7. Off-road LED Light Bars
Using off-road LED light bars on public roads can be illegal as they can blind other drivers due to their brightness and angle.
8. Super Dark Window Tinting on Windshield
Most states have specific regulations on how much of the windshield can be tinted and how dark the tint can be.
9. Nitrous Oxide
While having a nitrous oxide system isn’t necessarily illegal, using it on public roads is against the law in many places.
10. Certain Spoilers and Body Kits
Spoilers and body kits that could be deemed unsafe—either due to their dimensions or material quality—might not be street legal.
11. Raised or Lowered Suspensions
Extremely altered vehicle heights, either too low or too high, can be illegal due to safety concerns with visibility and stability.
12. Loud Stereo Systems
Sound systems that can be heard from a certain distance may violate local noise ordinances, making them illegal.
13. Dangling Ornaments
Objects hanging from the rear-view mirror that obstruct the driver’s view can be considered illegal in some states.
14. Unauthorized Police Lights
The use of police-style strobe lights is illegal for non-law enforcement personnel in almost every state.
15. Fake Airbag Covers
Replacing functional airbag panels with fake covers is illegal and extremely dangerous.
16. Wheel Spacers
Using wheel spacers to push the wheels out further from the car can be illegal if they compromise the vehicle’s safety.
17. Illegal Tire Modifications
Certain modifications that affect tire tread depth and pattern can render tires illegal on public roadways.
18. Non-Compliant Bumpers
Bumpers that do not meet federal safety standards can be illegal, particularly if they are too high or too low.
19. Blue Headlights
Headlights that emit a blue light similar to emergency vehicles are typically illegal due to the potential confusion they cause.
20. Racing Harnesses
Replacing standard seatbelts with racing harnesses in a daily driver can be illegal if they don’t meet safety standards for on-road use.
21. Cut Springs
Cutting springs to lower a vehicle is not only unsafe but also illegal, as it can affect the vehicle’s handling and stability.
Double Check
Before you make modifications to your vehicle, it’s crucial to check the specific laws in your state or municipality to ensure that you are in compliance. Illegal modifications can lead to fines, vehicle impoundment, and even legal trouble, not to mention potential safety hazards.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / macondo.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional advice.
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
