21 Illegal Car Mods: What Could Get You Fined or Towed

Car enthusiasts love customizing their rides, but some modifications can land you in hot water. Here are 21 illegal car mods that could get you fined or even towed.

1. Tinted Windows

Excessive window tinting is illegal in many states. For example, in California, front side windows must allow at least 70% of light in. Violating tint laws can result in fines up to $200.

2. Underglow Lighting

While it looks cool, underglow lighting is illegal in most states. Laws vary, but in many places, using blue or red lights is prohibited. These colors can be confused with emergency vehicles.

3. Loud Exhaust Systems

Modifying your exhaust to be excessively loud is a quick way to get a ticket. Many states have specific decibel limits, such as 95 dB in California. Violating noise ordinances can lead to fines and required modifications.

4. Lift Kits

Raising your vehicle beyond a certain height can be illegal. States like Pennsylvania have specific limits based on vehicle weight. Exceeding these limits can result in fines and failed inspections.

5. Lowered Suspension

Lowering your car too much can also be against the law. Some states have a minimum ground clearance requirement. Driving a car that’s too low can result in a citation and potential safety hazards.

6. Nitrous Oxide Systems

Installing nitrous oxide systems (NOS) is illegal in many areas. This mod can be classified as dangerous and is often prohibited on public roads. Getting caught with NOS can lead to hefty fines.

7. Illegal Window Tinting on Headlights and Taillights

Tinting your headlights or taillights can obstruct visibility, making it illegal. In many states, any modification that reduces light output is banned. This can result in fines and mandatory removal of the tint.

8. Radar Jammers

Using radar jammers to evade speed traps is illegal under federal law. Getting caught can result in severe fines and potential jail time. Radar detectors, however, are legal in some states.

9. Flashing Lights

Flashing or rotating lights are typically reserved for emergency vehicles. Installing them on your car can lead to fines and confusion on the road. In some states, this mod can even lead to vehicle impoundment.

10. Aftermarket HID Headlights

High-intensity discharge (HID) headlights are popular but can be illegal if not properly installed. Many states require headlights to meet specific standards. Improperly installed HIDs can result in fines.

11. Modified License Plates

Altering or covering your license plate is illegal. This includes tinted covers, frames that obscure information, or any modifications. Violating license plate laws can result in fines and tickets.

12. Excessive Lift Blocks

Using excessive lift blocks to raise your truck’s rear can be illegal. This mod can affect vehicle handling and safety. Many states have specific regulations on lift blocks to prevent accidents.

13. Racing Slicks

Using racing slicks on public roads is illegal due to their lack of tread. These tires are designed for track use and can be dangerous on regular roads. Getting caught with slicks can lead to fines and impoundment.

14. Missing or Modified Emissions Equipment

Removing or tampering with emissions control equipment is illegal under federal law. This includes catalytic converters and EGR valves. Fines for emissions violations can be substantial, and your vehicle may fail inspections.

15. Excessive Window Decals

Too many window decals can obstruct your view and violate state laws. Most states have regulations on how much of the window can be covered. Violating these rules can lead to fines.

16. Air Horns

Installing air horns designed for large trucks on a passenger vehicle is often illegal. These horns are excessively loud and can cause disturbances. Fines for using air horns can be steep.

17. Spinners

While popular in the early 2000s, spinner rims can be illegal in some states. These rims can cause distractions and may not meet safety standards. Getting caught with spinners can lead to fines and required removal.

18. Wide Tires

Installing tires that extend beyond the fender can be illegal. Many states have laws requiring fender flares to cover wide tires. Violating these laws can result in fines and safety inspections.

19. Stretched Tires

Stretched tires, where the tire is too narrow for the rim, can be dangerous and illegal. This mod can lead to tire failure and accidents. States with strict safety inspections will fail cars with stretched tires.

20. Colored Fog Lights

Installing colored fog lights, especially blue or red, is illegal in many states. These colors are reserved for emergency vehicles. Fines for this mod can be hefty, and you may be required to remove them.

21. Unauthorized Engine Swaps

Swapping your engine without proper authorization can be illegal. This includes not meeting emissions standards or failing to register the change. Unauthorized engine swaps can lead to fines and failed inspections.

Know the Law

While customizing your car can be fun, it’s essential to know the laws in your state. Illegal modifications can lead to fines, vehicle impoundment, and safety hazards. Always check local regulations before making any changes to your vehicle.

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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.