What are the laws about automotive modifications?

In Pennsylvania, the law surrounding automotive modifications revolves around ensuring safety and following legal requirements. Generally, before beginning any automotive modification, an individual should ensure they are up to date on the laws and regulations surrounding such modifications. Any alteration to a car’s factory-installed parts can be considered a modification. This includes changing the engine, wiring, exhaust systems, brakes, suspension, and body work. Modifications made to these parts must adhere to their respective state safety regulations. In Pennsylvania, these regulations are enforced by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). The PennDOT Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) maintains specific regulations for modifications such as: engine size, exhaust pipe size and type, lift kits, lighting and sound systems, and tinting to name a few. For instance, tinting must remain within a certain shade level, no more than 70% dark, and headlights must remain a certain brightness level. Additionally, exhaust systems must not exceed a certain decibel level and must be equipped with a catalytic converter. Also, lift kits and the alteration of wheelbases and/or track widths are regulated and must not exceed 6” total for lift kits and 2” on a track width. To ensure that modifications are in compliance with the law, all vehicles modified after 1972 in Pennsylvania must complete an annual vehicle safety inspection. This allows the PennDOT to review and approve any modifications. Failure to observe the laws and regulations may result in fines, vehicle impoundment, or DMV license suspension.

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What are the laws about automotive modifications?

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