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Modify a light vehicle: Simple (inspection)
The following modifications do not need written pre-approval from the DoT and can be assessed by an Authorised Inspection Station (AIS) vehicle examiner at time of the inspection.
Find out how to obtain any necessary modification approvals.
Simple: Modifications that require the vehicle to be inspected
The following modifications do not need written pre-approval from the DoT and can be assessed by an Authorised Inspection Station (AIS) vehicle examiner at time of the inspection. A Modification Permit will be issued by the AIS approving your particular modification
Before you book with AIS to have your modified vehicle inspected, the following must be completed:
- You must pre-pay for the modification permit before you present the vehicle for inspection.
- You must present your receipt at the time of the inspection.
- You must present the checklists relevant to the specific modifications as noted below at the time of the inspection.
Modifications requiring VSB14 checklists must be completed by suitably qualified persons, usually a qualified mechanic with a Department of Commerce Repairers Certificate.
Modifications not listed below may require prior approval from the DoT Vehicle Safety and Standards section. Further information is available at; Modifications that require Engineering Certification and approval.
Simple: Body and interior, seat, modifications
- Installation of Category 2 or 3 child seats. (LK1 checklist required)
- Installation of Child restraint anchorage points (not fitted by a DoT Type 2 Fitting Station). (LK6 checklist required)
- Please refer to: IB-118 or visit Child restraint fitting stations - Type 2
- Seating reduction seat and seat belt removal. (LK1 checklist required)
The following National Code of Practice VSB14 checklists must be supplied at time of inspection. The checklists must be completed and signed by the holder of a Motor Vehicle Repairers Certificate or a DoT automotive consultant.
- LK1 checklist: Seat and seatbelt installation/removal.
- LK6 checklist: Child restraint anchorage installation.
The checklists may be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletins (VSB) website.
| IB-118IL: Fitting Child Car Restraints (Information Bulletin) | Kb | |
| Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletin 14 (VSB14) | ||
|---|---|---|
Simple: Brake system modifications
Modifications to the braking system of a motor vehicle are permissible only where listed by the vehicle manufacturer as an option for the particular model. However, the fitting of a suitable power booster unit to a brake system is in order where it is an option listed by the vehicle manufacturer.
The following section of the National Code of Practice VSB14 details the requirements of fitting substitute brake systems;
- Section LG - Brakes.
VSB14 may be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletins (VSB) website.
| Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletin 14 (VSB14) | ||
|---|---|---|
Simple: Driveline modifications
- Gearbox change - Manual to Automatic manufacturer's option provided all the manufacturers' option components are used.
- Rear Axle substitution - Manufacturer's option provided all the manufacturers' option components are used
The following sections of the National Code of Practice VSB14 details the requirements of fitting vehicle manufacturers optional transmissions and differentials.
- LB1: Transmission substitution.
- LB2: Rear axle substitution.
VSB14 may be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletins (VSB) website.
| Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletin 14 (VSB14) | ||
|---|---|---|
Simple: Engine modifications
- Fitment of a manufacturer's option engine provided all the manufacturers' option components are used. (LA1 checklist required)
- Fitment of aftermarket extractors.
- Fitment of aftermarket turbo charges to OEM turbo diesel with mechanical pumps only. (LA1 checklist required)
- Fitment of intercooler.
- Fitment of over the radiator air intake without emissions control removed.
- Fitment of pod air filter.
The following National Code of Practice VSB14 checklist must be supplied at time of inspection, where relevant. The checklists must be completed and signed by the holder of a Motor Vehicle Repairers Certificate or a DoT automotive consultant.
- LA1- Equivalent Engine Installation checklist.
The checklists may be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletins (VSB) website.
| Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletin 14 (VSB14) | ||
|---|---|---|
Simple: Fuel system modifications
- Fitment of aftermarket fuel tanks. (LM1 checklist required)
The following National Code of Practice VSB14 checklists must be supplied at time of inspection. The checklists must be completed and signed by the holder of a Motor Vehicle Repairers Certificate or a DoT automotive consultant.
- LM1: Fuel tank alterations.
The checklists may be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts: Vehicle Standards Bulletins (VSB) website.
- Installation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Fuel Systems and Gas Containers.
The Gas Standards (Gas fitting and Consumer Gas Installations) Regulations 1999 require automotive LPG installations to comply with the requirements of Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1425 LP Gas fuel systems for vehicle engines.
By law, any installation, servicing or repair work to the LP gas system must be carried out by an auto gas fitter who is appropriately licensed by Energy Safety.
Once a vehicle LPG system and gas container has been installed and certified by an appropriately certified person, the vehicle is required to be inspected by an Authorised Inspection Station (AIS)
Simple: Steering modifications
- Aftermarket steering wheel marked as complying with Australian Design Rule 10/00 (pre-airbag and minimum size 330 mm).
- Basic steering wheel spinner knob without any controls (for persons with disabilities only).
Simple: Suspension modifications
- Fitment of adjustable coil over suspension, provided suspension travel is not reduced by more than one third of the manufacturer's specifications. The brake lines and ABS sensor wires must be securely attached.
- Fitment of Air Assist Airbag suspension as per IB-126.
- Lowering or raising a vehicle height (total roof height) by suspension springs only within 50 mm of manufacturer's specifications.
| IB-126B: Air bag suspension (Information Bulletin) | Kb | |
Applicable legislation and related documents (modify a light vehicle)
Whatever the reason for a modification, the vehicle in question must conform to the following regulations and rules.
- Australian Design Rules.
- Road Traffic (Vehicles) Act 2012.
- Road Traffic (Vehicles) Regulations 2014.
Many minor vehicle modifications can be carried out without our approval. However, they must still comply with the relevant regulations.