5 Practical car Modifications that will get you into trouble with the law

There are many modifications that can be done to every car. It can be often agreed upon that Singapore places stringent laws on the topic of car modifications. While many car enthusiasts are always debating how some of the regulations are absurd, it is true that these laws and regulation keep errand users in check. Today, we are here to share some modifications that is not commonly regarded as illegal however, if unaware, you find yourself in trouble when it comes to your inspection of your vehicle.

Air Horns

This is a modification that is not allowed due to the loud noise that can be created. This is strictly prohibited in Singapore as they are shrill and loud. Often or not, creates a distraction as well as nuisance to others on the road.

Instead, we suggest getting road legal variants from brands like “HELLA” and “BOSCH”.

Tow hook

This is illegal due to the sharp surface that is protruded from the car and in the event of an accident, it may aggravate injuries. Although it may seem like a great idea and will definitely help you greatly in the event where your car breaks down, it is simply illegal due to the damage that can be done to others.

Note: Often, modern cars have a slot where tow hooks can be inserted. You may look at your car manual to find it. Be sure to remove the tow hook after use too!

Crash bars

Though it may have a useful purpose like the tow hook, in this case to protect your vehicles from head-on collisions with large animals can worsen the injuries inflicted to a pedestrian in the event of a collision. In our urban setting, the risk of collision with animals is low and thus unnecessary.

Aftermarket Daytime running light or upgraded headlamps

You may have already seen many vehicles that have factory fitted daytime running lights. Besides giving the car a greater look, it serves as a means to allow other vehicles to see your vehicles more clearly.  If your vehicle does not come with it, it is illegal to have them fitted on due to the unwanted glare and causing distraction to other motorists.

If you are looking to get better vision on the road, you may have seen aftermarket lights that gives a clearer view of the road. If you are looking for an upgrade, the same reason is given due to the unwanted glare that may be produced due to an upgraded aftermarket light.

Although it is illegal to get daytime running lights for a car that does not have one, for headlamps, if you would like an upgrade, we suggest that you get alternatives that are legal and improves vision from brands like “PHILIPS” or “OSRAM”

Tinting of headlamps/windows

Although you may love privacy and want a tint so dark that no one can look into your vehicle, that is illegal in Singapore. Tinting of windows have a minimum limit of 70% visible light passing through the front and 25% visible from the rear of the car. Be sure not to exceed this limitation otherwise, you may find yourself in trouble with the law.

Tinting or masking of headlamps on the other hand is now allowed as they may adversely affect their performance.  Note: It seems like an ingenious idea to upgrade your headlamps and proceed to mask your headlight as it seems to net out the disadvantage of both. However, with our stringent laws, please do not do so as we all know what is going to happen next.

Quick tip: If privacy is really important to you, we suggest getting sunshade window visors that can help further prevent others to look into your vehicle.

Additional illegal modification

Rear Window Cover/Vents

Our last item here is not explicitly stated on the LTA regulations website, this is an aesthetic modification that improves the vehicle’s outlook as well as the aerodynamics if done correctly. However, this is illegal due to the nature that it blocks out the entire rear portion of your rear window, obscuring vision.

Pro-tip: If you already have this installed, be sure to remove this when it comes to your vehicle’s inspection. Additionally, we suggest to not have this installed due to the additional danger that may cause to other motorists!