“Accessorising and improving performance of vehicles has transformed from a hobby to a fully-fledged culture of fierce competition. In the race to individualize and distinguish their vehicles from others, enthusiasts constantly seek innovative, authentic specialty components and accessories with little regard to price,” their website says.

Vague legislation

However, not all modifications fall within the bounds of the law.

Unfortunately, the legislation surrounding vehicle modifications is rather vague, which is why you often see modified cars on our roads. Not all traffic officers are fully aware of what is and isn’t allowed.

According to Arrive Alive's website, the law states: “A motor car, minibus, bus, or goods vehicle fitted with at least four wheels, or a trailer, operated on a public road, shall comply with the relevant requirements as specified in the Government Notices issued in terms of section 22 of the Standards Act, 1993 (Act No 29 of 1993) and listed in Annex A to code of practice SABS 047: ‘The Testing of motor vehicles for roadworthiness.’”

It further states: “Notwithstanding anything pertaining to the extent of the application of the requirements referred to in sub-regulation (1), any motor vehicle design or any design of a motor vehicle modification submitted to the inspectorate of manufacturers, builders, and importers in terms of regulation 43, shall comply with the requirements relevant to such motor vehicle design or any design of a motor vehicle modification.” So, as you can see, the legal framework is quite complex.

So, clear as mud then with the legal framework quite complex.

Categories of modification

Modifications fall into four categories:

Visual modification: The most common which is why cars like Volkswagen’s R-Line, Merc’s AMG-Line and BMW’s Sport Line are so popular. They only affect the aesthetics of the car and have no impact on the car’s function, performance or safety.

Functional modifications or enhancements: These include bigger wheels, HID lights, increasing or lowering the suspension or tyre diameters. Essentially they improve the driver experience or make the vehicle more capable in certain environments.

car modification

Pimp my ride Mzansi style: Only in South Africa