Quick Guide to Private Car Modification and Window Tint Rule

So, you have been eyeing that wide-body kit, considering a little engine swap, or maybe just tinting the windows of your ride darker than your black coffee.

But here is the deal, not everything you see on your For You Page is legal on Malaysian roads.

Whether you are new to the mod game or a seasoned enthusiast, this simplified guide will help you avoid surprise summons, failed inspections, or worse—an invalid insurance claim.

Let’s break it all down so you can mod smart, not just mod hard.

What is Considered a Car Modification?

In Malaysia, a car modification refers to any alteration or addition made to a vehicle that changes its original structure, performance, appearance, or function.

This includes:

1. Body kit installations
2. Exhaust upgrades
3. Engine swaps
4. Lighting changes
5. Even seat configurations

Basically, if it did not come stock from the manufacturer and affects how your private car looks or performs—it likely counts as a modification.

Do Stickers or Decals Count as Car Modification?

Here is a question many do not expect: Do stickers count as mods?

Technically, yes—if they are reflective or obstruct important views (like your rear windshield or number plate), JPJ may consider them a violation.

Simple decals for style or branding? Usually fine. But reflective racing stripes, blacked-out logos, or number plate covers? That is where it gets tricky.

Pro tip: Keep your artistic expression below window level and off any official parts of the car.

Car Modification You Can Do Without JPJ Approval

You can breathe easy with these—just keep it within reason:

• Bigger rims or sportier wheels (if your tyres are not sticking out like crab legs)
• Body kits, side skirts, door visors, and bumpers (if they do not drastically alter the shape or size)
• Roof racks or snorkels (off-roading fans, rejoice!)
• Auto-to-manual transmission swaps
• Fog lights and spotlights (provided they do not blind incoming traffic)

Car Modifications That Will Get You in Trouble

Here is where things start to get risky. These mods can get you fined, denied insurance claims—or worse, your car impounded.

• Illegal HID or high-intensity LED headlights
• Aftermarket exhausts that sound like thunder at 3 a.m.
• Extreme “hellaflush” setups (think tilted wheels or excessive camber)
• Flashing/strobe lights (you are not an ambulance, my bro)
• Blacked-out number plates or custom fonts
• Overly dark or illegal car window tint (we will get to that next)

Car Window Tint Rule (Do Not Get Too Dark)

Tinting is one of the most common and misunderstood car modifications in Malaysia. So here is what is legal, according to JPJ:

• Front windscreen: minimum 70% visible light transmission (VLT)
• Front side windows: minimum 50% VLT
• Rear side windows & rear windshield: No limit, if your car has side mirrors and air conditioning.

Want darker tints for medical or safety reasons? You can apply for a JPJ exemption with supporting documents, but it is not guaranteed.

Is Engine Swapping Legal in Malaysia?

Yes—but only with JPJ approval.

If you are planning to swap in a turbo engine or upgrade from a 1.3L to a 1.8L, you will need:

• A JPJ inspection
• PUSPAKOM certification
• Proof that the engine is from a legal source (like a certified chop shop)

Without approval, you risk fines, vehicle seizure, and your car insurance being voided.

What Happens If You Break the Rules?

The Malaysian authority takes this matter seriously, as it involves road safety. So, it is not just a slap on the wrist:

• Fines up to RM2,000
• Up to 6 months’ jail
• Possible impound of your private car
• Car insurance renewal complications if you get into an accident

And let’s be real—modding your ride just to end up walking home? Not worth it.

Car Insurance Renewal Reminder: Do Not Forget This One Thing

Here is where many modders mess up: they forget to get consent from their car insurance provider about major modifications. Why does that matter?

If your modded vehicle is involved in an accident and the modifications were not declared, your claim could be rejected. Even legal car modification can be a problem if they are not declared.

So here is the deal:

If your car insurance is expiring in the next two months, head over to our car insurance renewal website and renew it online today. It only takes a few minutes, and you can stay on the road with peace of mind—modded or not.

Final Thoughts: Mod Smart, Stay Sharp

Modifying your private car can be fun, but it also comes with responsibility. Know the difference between performance, cosmetic, and illegal modifications.

Do not copy what is trending on TikTok without checking the rules—and always keep your car road legal, insured, and ready to pass that JPJ check.

What do you need to do now?

Friends do not let friends drive illegally modified cars. Share this blog with them before they end up in expensive trouble.

‍