Vehicle modifications can be a great way for car enthusiasts and professionals to personalise, improve performance and enhance functionality. If you are altering a car’s mechanical or structural features, your modifications must comply with legal and safety requirements. Mod Plates, or Modification Plates, are the answer in Queensland. Mod Plates are a great way to keep your vehicle road-legal even after it has been modified. Learn how to get a mod plate in QLD.
What Is Mod Plates?
Mod Plates allow you to prove that your vehicle has been modified and meets all the safety and legal requirements. This plate confirms that an approved vehicle certifier has inspected the vehicle and that Queensland’s strict vehicle standard has been changed.
Mod plates can be applied to a range of vehicle modifications.
- Upgrades to engines or engine swaps: You’ve upgraded or replaced your engine and need a Mod Plate. This ensures compliance with safety and emission standards.
- Suspension and chassis modifications: Altering your car’s suspension and chassis requires certification, such as raising or lowering it.
- Modifications in braking systems: Mod Plates certify the safety of your new braking equipment.
- Seating and Seatbelt Changes: Any seat configuration or seat belt system modification must be approved to maintain safety standards.
- 4×4 or off-road upgrades: Modifications made to 4x4s, like adding long-range gas tanks or heavy-duty springs, will also require the Mod Plate.
Your vehicle may only legally allow you to travel with a Mod Plate on the roads.
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Why Are Mod Plates Important?
When modifying a motor vehicle, the modifications must be compatible with safety and legal compliance. Queensland’s Vehicle Modification Laws safeguard drivers, passengers, the broader public, and other community members from the risks posed by vehicles modified improperly or without safety. Mod Plates play a vital role for several reasons.
- Legal Compliant: Vehicle Modifications must adhere to state or national regulations. Mod Plates allow you to prove that your modifications meet all legal requirements.
- Insurance Validity: Several insurance companies insist on roadworthy vehicles. They also require compliance with the state’s regulations. Modifying a vehicle without a Mod Plate may void the insurance policy. Unapproved modifications may cause your claim to be denied in case of an accident.
- Mod Plates: Mod Plates provide a means to verify that modified vehicles on public roadways are safe. Every modification must pass a certified examination to ensure its safety.
- Resale Value. Suppose you plan on selling your vehicle in future. In that case, a Mod Plate certifies that the modifications have all been inspected and are approved. Mod Plates could deter buyers from purchasing vehicles due to legal or safety concerns.
How To Get Mod Plates In Queensland?
Once you’ve understood the importance and necessity of Mod Plates, what is the process to get one in Queensland? The process of getting a Mod Plate in QLD is straightforward. But you must take certain steps to certify and inspect your vehicle properly.
- Identify The Modifications That Require Certification
Mod Plates do not apply to all modifications. But many structural, performance, or mechanical changes will. The first thing to do is identify which vehicle modifications must be certified. Some common examples include:
- Engine upgrades
- Suspension changes
- Seating adjustments
- Transmission swaps
- Upgrades (lift kits, etc.) for 4×4 Vehicles
If you’re unsure whether your modifications require a Mod Plate, check the Queensland Vehicle Standards and Modifications Guidelines on the Queensland Government site or consult a qualified Approved Vehicle Certifier.
- Find A Certified Vehicle (AVC)
Only AVCs authorised by Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) can inspect and certify a modified vehicle. You can use the TMR’s website to find an AVC nearby or ask your mechanic for recommendations. It’s crucial to work with AVCs who are familiar with modifications made to the vehicle.
Conclusion
Mod Plates are vital in ensuring modified vehicles in Queensland comply with the law and remain roadworthy. Mod Plates help you avoid legal issues and maintain the safety of a vehicle, whether you’ve upgraded your suspension or swapped your engine. Learn how to get your Mod Plate in Queensland to ensure your modified vehicle is safe and compliant with local regulations. If you’ve altered your vehicle, it’s important to get it inspected. Book a vehicle inspection with an Approved Vehicle Certification today and receive your Mod Plate. Your vehicle will be road-legal.