Light Vehicle Modifications
Information for vehicle owners or vehicle modifiers wishing to modify light vehicles (gross vehicle mass of not more than 4.5t)
Modifications to light vehicles can be generally classified in 4 ways:
- Minor modifications
- Basic modifications
- Modifications under a Code of Practice
- Specific modifications
Minor modifications:
Many minor modifications can be carried out without obtaining written approval.
Commonly, minor modifications involve the installation of an accessory (e.g. long range aerial, tow bars, roof racks etc) and provided the vehicle continues to meet the vehicle standards, do not require approval.
Basic modifications:
Basic modifications are changes to a vehicle that are more significant than a minor modification, but not significant enough to require formal approval from an Approved Person or the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Modifications under a Code of Practice:
Complex modifications such as engine upgrades, gearbox and rear axle changes, vehicle body modifications and steering and brake replacements are significant modifications to a vehicle and can seriously affect the safety of a vehicle if not performed properly.
Complex modifications to light vehicles must be certified by approved persons eg All Vehicle Mods, providing the modifications have been performed in accordance with an approved code of practice.
Specific modifications:
Some owners require approval for vehicle modifications which may be outside the scope of the approved codes of practice and approval by an Approved Person and must be approved by the department. Applications to modify a vehicle outside the requirements of an approved code of practice will only be considered by Transport and Main Roads if there is a genuine operational need for the modification.
