While different states have varied rules regarding car modifications, let’s take a look at how California views this subject, as this state tends to be more strict than others in this area.
Here are the Top 5 Illegal Modifications in California:
- Underbody Neon Lights
- Extra Loud Exhausts
- Radar Detectors/Laser Jammers
- Super Dark Window Tint
- Obstructive License Plate Covers/Frames
California Vehicle Code, Division 12 – Equipment of Vehicles is the place to look closely at the laws around vehicle modifications in the state but here we can narrow the subject down to just a few areas of concern. If you are utilizing more than two spotlights or neon lamps and lighting that extends past the vehicle more than 300 feet, you could be cited. Anything other than white or amber lights on the sides of your car is considered a distraction and red and blue light bars are definitively banned.
If you’re sporting a cold-air intake system which is designed to boost your car’s horsepower you could definitely find yourself being pulled over for speed. And if you have altered your car’s exhaust by removing your muffler for a more throaty sound, best to keep in mind that your car’s engine noise must be less than 95 decimals within 50 feet.
Those radar detectors which are an excuse to get away with speeding are illegal in California and so are the lasers that scramble police officer radar guns that detect motorists traveling over the speed limit.
Window tint as of 2021 laws, requires windshield of 4 inches and side windows be at 70% Visible Light Transmission (VLT). However, California law does not have restriction on how dark the rear or back side windows can be, but if the rear window is darkly tinted then your vehicle must have dual side mirrors for visibility.
When it comes to vehicle license plates, they must be visible at all times! Automatic license plate covers may be legal to own, but in use on the roadways, they may invite more trouble than the fun one expects at the click of a button.
Remember to think safety first, and if you find yourself in a sticky situation due vehicle customizations you thought would be worth it but cost you a citation, don’t hesitate to give us call at Ticket Dismissers. We’re here to help!