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Modified Vehicles & Certification
Most of us have at some time or another owned a vehicle that has been modified in some form whether it be a highly tuned road/track vehicle or a mild everyday commuting vehicle. Modified vehicles come in an endless number of configurations and although you may not be aware that your vehicle is modified it is common sense to make sure that your vehicle still complies. All manufactured vehicles are designed and tested to meet current regulations before they are released to the public at the time of first registration. The main governing regulations in Australia are referred to the Australian Design Rules. The ADR’s cover all areas of vehicle design and safety to ensure all manufacturers provide a vehicle that meets the minimum safety and compliance standards. The ADR’s do not vary or change from state to state although most states have a Modified Vehicle Code to ensure modifications are regulated. By replacing or upgrading a component on your vehicle you may directly affect compliance with ADR’s and in some cases require assessment by an Independent Automotive Consulting Engineer to ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy. An Engineer is responsible in inspecting your modified vehicle to ensure it maintains compliance and provide evidence to the registering authorities. It is strongly recommended you seek advice before you carry out any modifications or purchase any after market components. Keep in mind the next time you decide on vehicle modifications that your Consulting Engineer should be your first contact. Prepare a list of questions, bring along any parts catalogues, photos, magazines and any information on your next project. Be sure to outline all your modifications and take notes on any steps you have to take to maintain your vehicle. A Consulting Engineer will also carry out preliminary inspections on your vehicle while it is being constructed. When a vehicle has been approved for certification a Modification Plate or Engineering Certificate is issued to cover the modifications and then passed on to the registering authorities to endorse the adjustment of records on the Certificate of Registration. The owner of the modified vehicle is now responsible in maintaining the vehicle in the modified configuration. The owner must also have available upon request the proof of certification to produce to the Police, Road Transport or Environment Protection Authorities. A certification of a modified vehicle is valid for the registration of the vehicle and provided the vehicle is not further modified. If the owner of a modified vehicle is planning further modifications then it is necessary to have the certification updated to include the most current modifications. Modified vehicles that are not certified are considered un-roadworthy by the Transport Authorities. In the event of an Insurance Claim, particularly if you vehicle has been involved in an accident, your insurance cover can be rejected. If your vehicle has been certified by an Engineer, make sure that your insurance company receives a copy of your Engineering Certificate or that they are aware of your modifications in your Insurance Agreement to prevent any complications when an Insurance Claim is processed. Building a modified vehicle does require some planning and a lot of thought. Next time you venture into some wild ideas for your own vehicle, just ask for the right advice and keep your ride safe and roadworthy. Get Serious, Get Legal.
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