Roads Policing message – Car Modifications – What to Know

Modifying your car can enhance its performance, aesthetics, or functionality. However, in the Republic of Ireland, such modifications are subject to regulations to ensure road safety and compliance with legal standards. If you are considering modifying your car for aesthetic or performance reasons, it is important that you do so legally to avoid prosecution. It is your responsibility to ensure any modifications you do make, comply with the appropriate safety standards and Road Traffic Legislation. 

WHAT ISA VEHICLE MODIFICATION?

A newly manufactured vehicle must meet strict safety standards before it can be placed on the market. Modifying that vehicle can affect its original strength or operation and therefore safety. We do not recommend modifying vehicles, however in some cases adaptations are unavoidable e.g., for disabled use or access. It is important to remember that under Irish road traffic regulations, it is the responsibility of the owner and/or driver to ensure that their vehicle is maintained in a roadworthy condition at all times when used in a public place. Therefore, any modification which negatively affects that roadworthiness can result in prosecution.

WHAT IS A VEHICLE CONVERSION?

A vehicle conversion refers to a distinct type of post registration physical modification that results in a change of the vehicle’s category e.g., passenger car to van. A conversion can also result from other changes to a vehicle that will also affect the registration details of a vehicle e.g., a change in the number of seating positions. Vehicle conversions require a declaration of conversion to be provided to the Revenue Commissioners.

If you modify or convert your vehicle, you may need to get a vehicle modification certificate, which is provided by a Suitably Qualified Individual or SQI with the expertise necessary to inspect your vehicle and provide such a certificate. Before undertaking such modifications, you must be aware that you may need also, to contact the Motor Tax Office to update your Vehicle Registration Certificate and/or contact the revenue Commissioners for any VRT payments.

Legal Modifications:

While there is no outright ban on vehicle modifications in Ireland, any changes must adhere to safety standards and not compromise the vehicle's roadworthiness. The Road Safety Authority (RSA) emphasizes that modifications should be carried out to an appropriate safety standard.

Common legal modifications include:

Cosmetic Enhancements: Adding spoilers, body kits, or changing the vehicle's colour is generally permissible. However, significant alterations may require notification to the Department of Transport.

Lighting Upgrades: Installing LED or HID lights is allowed, provided they comply with European type approval regulations (EU) 2018/858 & the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations, 1963. Basically, they cannot be too bright as to dazzle other road users.

Suspension Adjustments: Lowering or raising the suspension is acceptable if it doesn't adversely affect the vehicle's handling or safety. It would be recommended to employ an SQI to examine the vehicle after. 

Engine Modifications: Upgrading the engine or its components is legal, but such changes must not compromise emissions standards or safety. It is also necessary to contact the Department of Transport to verify if you need to update your vehicle registration certificate. You must also contact the Revenue Commissioners.

Interior Changes: Modifying the interior, such as installing new seats or infotainment systems, is allowed as long as it doesn't interfere with safety features. 

It's crucial to ensure that all modifications are performed by qualified professionals and that the vehicle remains compliant with the National Car Test (NCT) standards. 

Modifications that maybe illegal or restricted:

Certain modifications can render a vehicle illegal or unsafe:

Excessive Window Tinting: This is the most common modification we see on our roads. While tinting is not illegal, the front windscreen & the front driver & passenger side windows must allow 65% of light through. Anything less than that and you face a Fixed Charge Notice of €80 and two penalty points or a court summons.

Loud Exhaust Systems: Modifying the exhaust to produce excessive noise is a breach of Section 29 of the Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment & Use of Vehicles) Regulations, 1963 and can lead to penalties. EU regulations state that an exhaust from relevant vehicles cannot emit a noise of louder than 72dB. The exhaust system must be maintained in good working order.

Illegal Lighting: Installing lights that emit non-white/yellow light at the front or non-red light at the rear is prohibited. 

Unsafe Structural Changes: Modifications that alter the vehicle's structural integrity, such as removing seats or adding axles, require approval and may be subject to inspection from an SQI. 

Frontal Protection Systems (Bull Bars): Retrofitting bull bars must comply with European type-approval regulations & the Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment & Use of Vehicles) Regulations to ensure pedestrian safety.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in vehicle seizure, court summons, and penalties. 

Responsibilities of vehicle owners:

As a vehicle owner, you're responsible for:

Ensuring Roadworthiness: Your vehicle must remain in a safe and roadworthy condition at all times.

Notifying Authorities: Significant modifications should be reported to the Department of Transport, especially if they affect the vehicle's registration details

Insurance Disclosure: Inform your insurance provider of any modifications, as undisclosed changes can invalidate your policy.

Before undertaking any modifications, consult with automotive professionals or the RSA to ensure compliance with all legal and safety requirements. Proper documentation and adherence to standards will help avoid legal issues and ensure your vehicle remains safe on the road. 

For more detailed information, visit the RSA's official page on vehicle modifications.