Top 7 Legal Car Modifications In India
A passion for driving and an emotional attachment to cars often lead to car customization. Common people may think these modifications are odd, but they're the best fit for the owner's car. You can customize the design, accessorize the interior, or tune the engine. If someone wants to customize their car, there are no limits.
Car modification law prohibits some modifications. Hence, if you're modifying your car, make sure you don't do anything that compromises safety. Don't weaken the car's chassis.
You can find a list of legal car modifications in India here if you want to modify them.
Types of Car Modification
In general, Car modifications in India fall into three categories: aesthetics, functionality, and performance.
Aesthetic modifications:
We see aesthetic modifications on cars all the time. A car with such modifications generally looks great, but it is not more efficient or useful. Motor Vehicle Act prohibits some modifications, but other modifications are permissible. You can customize your car's exterior and interior.
Functional modifications:
Modifications that make vehicles easier to use for drivers and passengers. Usually, such modifications aim to improve the comfort and convenience of the occupants. Accessories are usually used instead of mechanical components. It is possible to customize the exterior and interior of the car.
Performance modifications:
A performance modification increases a car's performance. OEMs tune their cars to keep performance and fuel efficiency in balance. Those who want more out of their vehicle often customize the powertrain.
Legal car modifications In India
Body kit installation:
Car body kits are legal as long as they're bolt-on and don't affect the vehicle's structure. Cars usually get these kits, such as body cladding, side panels, front splitters, etc., to enhance their looks. Additionally, many automakers offer factory or dealer-level body kits, which do not affect warranty coverage.
Colour change:
Color changes are legal in India, but need RTO permission for car modification. However, some colors like Army Green are only available for military vehicles. If you plan to change the color of your car, you should get approval from the RTO. Additionally, make sure the registration certificate specifies the paint accurately.
Body wrapping:
Car body wraps are legal in India, just like colour changes. Vinyl wraps are applied directly to the surface of automobiles to protect their original paint from the elements or minor impacts such as scratches and scars. Besides that, it also enhances the car's glossy appearance. Wrapping the body of a car in the same color doesn't require RTO approval. RTO is notified and RC is updated if the wrap doesn't differ from the exterior paint.
Aftermarket CNG kit installation:
Adding an aftermarket CNG kit to an Indian car is legal. The registration certificate should indicate the CNG kit fitment and the vehicle documents must be updated with the local RTO.
Suspension change:
Suspension changes are legal provided they do not significantly alter ground clearance. A suspension upgrade without affecting the ground clearance too much can improve the vehicle's ride quality, especially considering Indian roads.
Black Paint Alloys and Roof:
Your car will look sleek and modern if you paint the alloy wheels and roof black. Car enthusiasts are fond of this cosmetic modification. Any modification that doesn't affect the vehicle's identification or safety features is legal. Notify the RTO of significant color changes, particularly if they make the car appear significantly different.
Arrangement for differently abled:
Differently-abled people can modify cars to meet their needs. Those with a 40 percent permanent disability or greater can drive a car with a length less than or equal to four metres under the amended Motor Vehicles Act. It is possible for them to drive a petrol car with an engine capacity of 1,200 cc and a diesel car with an engine capacity of 1,500 cc. In such cases, the local RTO must register the cars as ‘Adapted Vehicles’.