What Car Mods Are Legal in California?
California is known for its strict regulations when it comes to vehicle modifications. The state has some of the toughest laws in the country, aimed at ensuring road safety and environmental protection. If you are a car enthusiast living in California, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the legal requirements before making any modifications to your vehicle. In this article, we will explore what car mods are legal in California and answer some frequently asked questions on this topic.
Legal Car Modifications in California:
1. Window Tinting: Window tinting is allowed in California, but there are restrictions on the darkness of the tint. The front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through, while the rear windows and rear windshield can have any darkness level.
2. Exhaust Systems: Modifying your car’s exhaust system is legal as long as it complies with the state’s noise regulations. The exhaust system should not exceed 95 decibels when measured from a certain distance at a specified RPM range.
3. Suspension Modifications: Lowering or raising your vehicle’s suspension is allowed as long as it does not exceed the maximum height limits set by the California Vehicle Code. The front bumper should not be lower than 22 inches or higher than 28 inches, and the rear bumper should be between 22 and 31 inches.
4. Lighting Modifications: Customizing your car’s lighting is permitted, but it must comply with specific regulations. You can add aftermarket fog lights or auxiliary driving lights, but they should not be higher than the headlights and must be properly aimed to avoid blinding other drivers.
5. Wheel and Tire Upgrades: Changing your car’s wheels and tires is generally allowed as long as they do not extend beyond the fenders and do not interfere with the proper functioning of the vehicle’s suspension, brakes, or steering.
6. Engine Modifications: Upgrading your car’s engine is legal in California, as long as the modifications comply with the state’s emissions regulations. It is essential to ensure that any engine modifications do not increase the vehicle’s emissions beyond the levels set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I install a loud aftermarket exhaust system on my car in California?
A: No, California has strict noise regulations, and aftermarket exhaust systems must not exceed 95 decibels when measured from a certain distance at a specified RPM range.
Q: Are LED light bars legal in California?
A: LED light bars are allowed as long as they are properly installed and comply with the state’s regulations. They should not be higher than the headlights and must not emit a color other than white or amber.
Q: Can I modify my car’s suspension to make it extremely low?
A: While lowering your vehicle’s suspension is allowed, it must not exceed the maximum height limits set by the California Vehicle Code. The front bumper should not be lower than 22 inches or higher than 28 inches.
Q: Do I need a special permit for window tinting in California?
A: No, you do not need a special permit for window tinting. However, the front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
Q: Are engine swaps legal in California?
A: Engine swaps are legal as long as the engine being installed is from a vehicle of the same model year or newer and the modifications comply with the state’s emissions regulations.
In conclusion, California has strict regulations regarding car modifications to ensure road safety and environmental protection. It is crucial for car enthusiasts to be aware of the legal requirements before making any modifications to their vehicles. Remember to always consult the California Vehicle Code and the regulations set by the California Air Resources Board to ensure compliance with the law.