UK drivers have been warned that they could see their cars banned from the road if they fail to follow a little-known DVLA driving rule. Here’s all you need to know
The DVLA could take cars off the road and demand inspections due to a little-known driving rule, motoring experts have warned.
Specialists at car insurance comparison site EasyQuote have issued a warning that any new modifications to a vehicle “must be reported” to the DVLA straight away. This includes changes to the vehicle’s chassis, exhaust system, number plate, or even just a new colour for the bodywork.
In some instances, the DVLA might call for an immediate inspection of the car, with the power to prevent the vehicle from being used if necessary. Those who love to customise their rides with upgrades need to be wary of falling foul of safety regulations, reports the Express.
According to EasyQuote.co.uk: “Drivers are required to register significant modifications to their vehicle with the DVLA, updating their V5C registration and providing necessary evidence. Modifications that must be reported include 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.”
“The DVLA may request an inspection of the vehicle to verify its roadworthiness following these changes. 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. Additionally, owners may face fines or even a court summons if the modifications do not meet regulatory standards.”
Motorists have been hit with a stark warning from Compare the Market, cautioning that not reporting car modifications could lead to hefty fines and points on their licence. The comparison gurus highlighted that silence over just three vehicle upgrades might trigger fines exceeding £5,000 and accrue nine points on a driver’s licence.
Illegal suspension lowering and the installation of oversized spoilers could see fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each offence. Additionally, drivers could face a £60 fine for window tinting. The DVLA must be informed of such changes, but it’s also crucial to alert car insurance providers.
Modifications can significantly alter a vehicle’s safety profile and its appeal to thieves, potentially impacting insurance premiums. Failure to disclose these changes could result in insurance being void at the time of a claim. Julie Daniels, the car insurance expert at Compare the Market, advised: “If you decide to modify your car while you have an existing insurance policy, you need to notify your provider about the change.
“Ideally, you should check with your provider before altering your vehicle to find out how it might affect your premium or if there will be any amendment fees involved.”
