Motorists are being warned that they could risk serious vehicle issues if they do not inform the DVLA of key changes to their cars.
Experts have warned drivers that any changes to the vehicle, including alterations to the exhaust system, number plates or a change of paint colour, must be registered with the DVLA.
If a vehicle has made modifications and the DVLA is not informed, the agency may demand an “immediate inspection” of the car and has the power to prevent it from being able to drive on UK roads.
According to the Road Traffic Act 1988 (Section 75) vehicles must meet certain standards to be eligible to drive in the UK.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Changes including colour of car must be registered with DVLA
GETTYUnder the law, it is an offence to alter a vehicle beyond its original manufacturing purpose.
If a person alters the vehicle without letting the authorities know, they could be found guilty of an offence under the Act.
EasyQuote.co.uk said that any modifications must be reported to the DVLA including changes to the chassis or body shell, alterations to the exhaust system or number plate, or if the vehicle has been wrapped in a different colour.
A spokesperson for the comparison site said: "The DVLA may request an inspection of the vehicle to verify its roadworthiness following these changes," Birmingham Live reported.
Additionally, the comparison site added that owners may face fines or even a court summons if the modifications do not meet regulatory standards.
The spokesperson continued: “If it is necessary to conduct tests and the vehicle fails, it may be prohibited from being used on the roads until corrective actions are taken.”
Car modification, also known as car tuning or car styling, involves changing the car so that it no longer matches the manufacturer’s original specifications.
These modifications could involve adding car parts, such as performance-enhancing brakes, steering and suspension to tune the car’s performance.
Changes could also focus on aesthetics, for example changing the car headlights or grille.
However, any changes that have not been registered could see drivers face harsh fines for neglecting to notify the DVLA.
In some cases, vehicle upgrades could lead to fines of up to £5,000 and up to nine points on a licence, EasyQuote stated.
While unrecorded changes are punishable, the Government has allowed certain exceptions to the rule.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Drivers could be fines £5,000 for unauthorised vehicle changes
PAModifications can be made for legal, safety and/or health implications for the vehicle owner, its occupants and other road users.
