Modified cars: how far can we go?
For some, the role of a car may be limited to being a means of transportation. For others, its role may be as an accessory. Just as we do with our clothes, we want our vehicle to reflect our personality. There are many ways to modify your car, but you need to know how far you can go without breaking the law.
The website of the Société de l'Assurance Automobile du Québec is quite complete on the subject.
Since some modifications affect the behaviour of the car, the SAAQ must ensure that they will not prevent the vehicle (and its driver) from respecting the Highway Code.
The SAAQ must approve changes of this nature:
- Installation of a lift assembly
- Installation of a vehicle lowering assembly
- Modifications to the driving or braking system components
** Before proceeding with modifications to your vehicle's components, it is recommended that you read the document provided by the SAAQ entitled "Modifying your vehicle". It is a well-constructed document, mentioning the prohibited modifications, liable to fines.
Once you have ensured that your modifications are technically sound, you should have a mechanical inspection performed by a specialist. This is a measure to certify that your vehicle meets road safety standards. Once again, you can find a service point on the SAAQ website.
Following the verification, your file will be sent to the SAAQ for analysis. It is possible that a second inspection will be required, and that modifications will be made in order to comply with road standards or that a report will be written by an engineer who is a member of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec.
When the car is judged to be in conformity, a certificate of mechanical verification will be given to you, as well as a certificate of verification. From then on, you will be able to proceed with the modification of your registration, in order to be in order.
Recommendation
Use parts that are specially adapted to your vehicle and from recognized manufacturers who certify that they are suitable for road use.
