Many car owners opt to install roof racks or roof boxes to expand their luggage capacity for long trips. However, some are caught off guard during vehicle inspections or roadside checks, realizing their modifications are considered structural changes, leading to potential fines or inspection rejections. To avoid legal complications, consider the following key points.
1. Installing Roof Racks Constitutes Vehicle Modification
Recently, the Government’s Electronic Information Portal featured a response from the Vehicle Registration Department regarding the installation of roof racks. According to the department, adding a roof rack is classified as a vehicle modification since it alters the exterior structure. Therefore, car owners cannot simply purchase and install it as a standard accessory.
If installed without completing the modification procedures, the vehicle may be denied registration and subject to penalties during inspections by authorities.
2. Obtain a Modification Certificate Before Inspection
After installing a roof rack, vehicle owners must visit a registration center to complete the modification certification process. This is a straightforward modification, so no technical design documentation is required. Owners need only prepare a request for modification certification and the vehicle registration papers.
If the vehicle meets technical requirements, the registration center will issue a modification certificate, conduct the inspection, and provide the inspection sticker. Typically, the entire process can be completed within the same day.
3. Update Your Vehicle Registration
Obtaining a modification certificate is not sufficient. Vehicle owners must also update their registration to reflect the installation of the roof rack.
Currently, owners can declare changes online via the Ministry of Public Security’s Public Service Portal. Specifically, log into the system, declare the registration changes, and pay the fee online. Afterward, owners will receive a case number and appointment to visit the registration office to finalize the process and obtain the new registration certificate.
For cases involving only modification updates, owners are not required to bring the vehicle for re-inspection. If the documentation is in order, processing takes approximately 2 business days.
4. Proper Installation and Usage
Beyond paperwork, using a roof rack must comply with safety regulations, including:
– The roof rack and cargo must not exceed the vehicle’s width.
– Avoid stacking items too high, as this raises the center of gravity and increases the risk of tipping during turns or sudden braking.
– Secure all cargo firmly to prevent shifting or falling during transit.
5. Removing Roof Racks Also Requires Updating Records
When the roof rack is no longer needed and is removed, owners must update their vehicle records to revert to the original state. Failure to do so may result in discrepancies between documentation and the actual vehicle condition, potentially complicating future inspections.
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