MODIFYING YOUR VEHICLE
Many of our clients have plans to modify their car, they may wish to add a larger exhaust, lower the car, or install expensive sound systems. However, before you let your imagination run wild and start work on your vehicle, make sure you do it properly.
It may cost you a bit extra, but it could cost you your life if you don't do it the right way.
This means, depending on the extent of your modifications, you may have to get your vehicle checked by a low volume vehicle certifier.
Some trouble areas
- Modified suspensions can alter a vehicle's handling characteristics, and if the modification exceeds a specified threshold the vehicle must be checked by a low volume vehicle certifier. To find the threshold look in the vehicle inspection requirements manual used by WoF inspectors or in the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association's info sheet on modification thresholds (PDF on the LVVTA's website).
- Some engine conversions, or even engine modifications, could result in your braking system being inadequate for the performance potential of your car. A low volume vehicle certifier will ensure that your braking system is still safe.
- Your exhaust system must terminate in a position where the outer end of the exhaust pip is not directly underneath, or forward of, the passenger compartment. That's so you and other car occupants don't breathe in poisonous carbon monoxide fumes that can be sucked into the vehicle!
- A racing seat can provide you with better support - but it can also affect the way that your seatbelt protects you in an impact if the seat is not correctly positioned and attached to the vehicle.
- any TV/DVD screen within the reach or sight of the driver that operates whilst the vehicle is underway.
- coloured lights at the front, sides or rear, apart from the headlamps, brake lamps, direction indicators etc required by law (check get your lights right)
- fat tyres or rims that stick out from the body of the vehicle (they overload and put strain on the axle).
