CAR MODIFICATIONS: STAYING WITHIN LEGAL BOUNDARIES IN MISSOURI

Car modifications are a popular way for vehicle owners to personalize their rides, improve performance, or enhance aesthetics. If you’re unsure whether a specific modification is legal, call Speeding Ticket KC and consult with one of our Kansas City traffic defense attorneys to avoid potential violations.

Whether you’re adding custom exhaust systems, window tinting, or underglow lights, Missouri has specific laws regulating vehicle modifications. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines, citations, or even legal trouble.

If you’re considering modifying your vehicle, here’s what you need to know to stay within Missouri’s legal boundaries.

WINDOW TINTING LAWS IN MISSOURI

One of the most common car modifications is window tinting. While it provides privacy and protects against UV rays, Missouri law places limits on how dark your tint can be:

• Windshield: Tint is allowed only on the top portion (above the AS-1 line) and must allow more than 35% light transmission.
• Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 35% of light to pass through.
• Rear Side and Back Windows: Can be any darkness if the vehicle has outside rearview mirrors on both sides.

Having illegal tint can result in a fine and the requirement to remove the film to pass vehicle inspections. If you want to ensure your tint is legal, have it installed by a professional who understands Missouri’s laws.

EXHAUST SYSTEM MODIFICATIONS

Loud exhausts are a common complaint, and Missouri has laws that prohibit excessive noise levels. The key regulations include:

Mufflers are required: All vehicles must have a muffler in good working order to prevent excessive or unusual noise.

No straight pipes: It is illegal to remove or bypass the muffler with a straight pipe or similar system.

Noise limitations: While Missouri does not have a statewide decibel limit, local ordinances may impose stricter regulations. Kansas City, for example, has noise laws that could result in citations for excessively loud vehicles.

If you’re installing an aftermarket exhaust system, make sure it complies with local noise ordinances to avoid unnecessary fines or legal trouble.

VEHICLE HEIGHT AND SUSPENSION MODIFICATIONS

Lift kits, lowered suspensions, and other height modifications are popular, but Missouri law sets some restrictions:

Bumper height regulations: Missouri does not have strict statewide regulations on bumper height, but vehicles must still meet federal safety standards.

Headlights and taillights height: Headlights must be between 24 and 54 inches from the ground, while taillights must be between 15 and 72 inches.

Tire and wheel regulations: Tires cannot protrude dangerously beyond the vehicle’s fenders, and vehicles must have adequate mud flaps to prevent debris from hitting other drivers.

When modifying your suspension, ensure your vehicle remains safe and compliant with these guidelines.

UNDERGLOW AND OTHER LIGHTING MODIFICATIONS

Neon underglow lights are a popular aesthetic modification, but Missouri has specific rules regarding vehicle lighting:

Red and blue lights are restricted: Only law enforcement vehicles may display red or blue flashing lights on public roads.

No flashing lights: Flashing lights (other than turn signals and hazard lights) are illegal for regular vehicles.

License plate illumination: Missouri law requires a white light to illuminate the rear license plate to ensure visibility at night.

While underglow lighting is not explicitly banned, using certain colors or flashing lights on public roads can lead to tickets. It’s best to use underglow lights only when parked or at car shows.

ILLEGAL ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE MODIFICATIONS

Many car enthusiasts look for ways to increase horsepower and speed, but certain modifications can violate Missouri law:

Nitrous oxide systems (NOS): Possessing a NOS system is legal, but using it on public roads is not.

Engine swaps: Engine modifications must comply with emissions regulations and pass Missouri’s vehicle inspection requirements.

Tampering with emissions controls: Removing catalytic converters or disabling emissions systems is illegal and can result in heavy fines.

If you modify your engine, ensure it remains compliant with Missouri’s emissions laws and does not violate federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR CAR? CONTACT A KANSAS CITY TRAFFIC DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Customizing your vehicle can be exciting, but staying within Missouri’s legal boundaries is essential to avoid fines and legal issues. Always check Missouri state laws and local ordinances before making modifications to your car. If you’re unsure whether a specific modification is legal, call Speeding Ticket KC and consult with one of our Kansas City traffic defense attorneys to avoid potential violations.

If you’ve been ticketed for an illegal vehicle modification, an experienced Missouri traffic defense Lawyer can help fight your charges and ensure you stay on the road legally.