Car modification is the passion of every car lover. But, if you do a wrong modification, you not only have to pay a fine from the traffic police – sometimes the car can also be seized. Therefore, it is very important to know the legal rules. This updated 2025 guide makes every point clear!

Car Modification: What is it?

Car modification means any change, upgrade or personalization in your vehicle. Some people do it for looks, some for performance, some do it legally… but not everything is allowed!

Indian Laws on Car Modification

1. Motor Vehicles Act, 1988: The most important law. This act states that the original structure of the vehicle cannot be modified without permission.
2. Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR): These rules provide regulation of colour, lights, tyres, horn, exhaust.
3. Supreme Court Judgment (2019): The Supreme Court had clearly stated that any change in the factory structure or chassis is illegal, such as cutting a sunroof, making a convertible, lifting/raising/shortening the chassis.

Main Reasons for Strict Rules:

1. Safety: The integrity of the structure is disturbed.
2. Pollution/Emission Control
3. Owner Identity and Anti-theft Regulations

List of Legal Car Modifications (2025 Main Points & Tips)

1. Color Change

• It is necessary to take permission from RTO
• New color will have to be updated on RC card.
• Only legal shades (Army/Police pattern banned)

2. Vinyl Wraps & Decals

• 
  Only designer wraps, custom graphics, or matte finish are legal
• Government/ambulance-style stickers or reflective wraps are illegal

3. Alloy Wheels & Tires

• Wider tyre, larger alloy legal—but staying within company size/weight range
• Extreme low profile or oversize tires are illegal

4. Headlamps/Fog Lamps

1. Adding Projector, LED & DRL
2. Do not use red/blue bulbs, police pattern, or illegal high-power bulbs

5. Interior Mods

Infotainment, ambient light, steering wrap, designer seat is legal

Avoid airbag/system damage or wire tampering

6. Exhaust/Performance Upgrades

Performance exhaust can be used—but should not be above 100 db

Any custom part that violates emission/pollution norm is illegal

7. Engine Swap

• Get approval from RTO, and new engine must match emission norm

Extra Tips:

1. Rear Spoilers: Small, non-structural spoiler is legal
2. Sunfilms: Follow Legal limit (50% VLT Side/70% Front & Rear)

Illegal Modifications in India (2025 Update)

1. Chassis/Body Structure Change

• Convertible making, sunroof cutting—strictly illegal
• Extreme body kit or frame alteration: Illegal

2. Number Plates

• Designer/3D/fancy fonts: Illegal. Only IND HSRP is legal

3. Dark Tint

• Follow factory limit. One-way/mirror film is completely banned

4. Bull Bar, Crash Guards

• Banned due to pedestrian safety rules

5. Air Horns, Modified Loud Exhaust

• Noise above 100 db is not legal

RTO Approval Process – How to do it?

• Go to your local RTO office and file a written application
• Attach images of new changes and bill
• You will get a date for vehicle inspection
• After inspection, RTO officer will give approval (if rules are followed)
• New details will be updated on RC

Note: This process is mandatory for colour change/engine swap/major mods!

Documents & Formalities After Modification

1. Entry/endorsement in RC
2. All mod bills and RTO permission copy
3. Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
4. Insurance update (if major mod)

Penalties for Illegal Car Modification in India

• Fine: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 (varies state-wise)
• Repeat offense can lead to vehicle seizure or RC suspension.
• Insurance claim may be rejected (due to illegal modification)

Insider Tips to Pass RTO Checks!

• Buy mod parts only from reputed brand or government certified dealer
• Keep custom horn/lights easily removable (replace original parts during inspection)
• Keep photocopies of documents in the car

Safety Factors

• Use crash test certified accessories
• Never tamper with airbag, ABS, sensors, or wiring
• Do not disturb structural integrity

Best Practices For Car Mods in India

• Before doing modification, consult RTO
• Use only Safety certified products
• Do not forget to update insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Which car modification is 100% legal?

A: Alloy wheels, mild wraps, seat covers, infotainment system, legal exhaust—just keep in mind the approval & norms.

Q2. Is engine swap possible?

A: Yes, but it is illegal without approval from RTO.

Q3. Can I install a sunroof?

A: Aftermarket sunroof cutting is illegal, only factory-fitted ones are allowed.

Q4. Can I install bull bars?

A: No, bull bars are strictly banned as per 2025 rules.

Q5: Can I change my car colour legally in India?

A: Yes, after getting approval from the RTO and updating your RC book.

Q6: Are aftermarket exhausts legal in India in 2025?

A: Only if noise levels are under 100 decibels and emissions norms are met.

Q7: Is window tinting permitted?

A: Only factory-fitted or legal films meeting prescribed visibility norms are allowed.