A guide to legal car modifications in Arizona

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From buying a car to drive to moving to Arizona, you need to know how you can modify your car to make sure it meets the state's street laws. Knowing these requirements will help you avoid fines and penalties of up to $100 or more.

Sounds and noise

Arizona places some restrictions on modifications to your vehicle that may affect the sounds it makes, such as the stereo and muffler. While no decibel limits are imposed by the state, there are requirements that may be subjective on the part of any officer called or whoever hears the sounds.

Audio system

• The radio should not be listened to at a volume that breaks silence, disturbs sleep, or annoys those who hear it, especially between 11:7 and XNUMX:XNUMX.

Muffler

Arizona silencer laws include:

• Vehicle mufflers must be equipped and in good condition so as not to generate "unusual or excessive" noise levels.

• Detours, cut-outs and similar devices are not permitted on motorway vehicles.

• Exhaust systems must not allow excessive release of smoke or vapors into the air.

Functions: Also check your local Arizona laws to make sure you comply with any municipal noise ordinances that may be stricter than state laws.

Frame and suspension

Arizona does not limit suspension lift or frame height as long as people use fenders and mudguards. However, vehicles cannot be taller than 13 feet 6 inches.

ENGINES

Arizona laws require your vehicle to pass an emissions test if you drive into the Tucson and Phoenix areas. There are no other restrictions on engine modification.

Lighting and windows

Arizona also has restrictions on the headlights that can be added to modify a vehicle, and acceptable window tint levels.

Lanterns

• Lights greater than 300 candles cannot illuminate more than 75 feet in front of the vehicle.

• Passenger vehicles cannot display red, blue, or flashing red and blue lights at the front center of the vehicle.

Window tinting

• Non-reflective tinting is permitted on the front windshield as long as it is 29 inches above the driver's seat in the lowest position and as far back as possible.

• Amber or red tint is not allowed

• The front windows of the driver and passenger must let in more than 33% of the light.

• Rear side windows and rear window can be of any darkness

• Mirror or metallic/reflective tints on the front and rear side windows may not have a reflectance greater than 35%.

Vintage/classic car modifications

Arizona requires vintage and classic cars to be registered in the same way as late model cars. In addition, they will provide street link plates for vehicles made in 1948 or earlier that have:

• Brake, transmission and suspension modifications for road safety.

• Modifications, including fiberglass or steel in the body, that allow the vehicle to retain the basic body structure of its model year while still being road safe (not specified)

• Modifications that include comfort or other safety features (not specified)

If you are planning to modify your vehicle to comply with the restrictions imposed by Arizona laws, AvtoTachki can provide mobile mechanics to help you install the new parts. You can also ask our mechanics what modifications are best for your vehicle using our free online Ask a Mechanic Q&A system.