Guide to Legal Vehicle Modifications in Ohio
Auto repair

Guide to Legal Vehicle Modifications in Ohio

09.11.2022 /

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Whether you live in Ohio or plan to move to that state, you need to know the laws regarding vehicle modifications. The following information will help you ensure that your vehicle is legal on Ohio roads.

Sounds and noise

Ohio has laws and ordinances that govern vehicle noise levels.

Sound systems

The rules for sound systems in vehicles are only that the sound they emit cannot be maintained at a volume that causes noise that annoys others or makes it difficult to talk or sleep.

Muffler

  • Silencers are required on all vehicles and should prevent unusual or excessive noise.
  • Muffler shunts, cutouts and amplification devices are not permitted on motorways.
  • Passenger cars cannot exceed 70 decibels when traveling at 35 mph or less.
  • Passenger cars cannot exceed 79 decibels when traveling at speeds over 35 miles per hour.

Functions: Always check with your local Ohio County laws to make sure you are complying with any municipal noise ordinances that may be stricter than state laws.

Frame and suspension

  • Vehicle height must not exceed 13 feet 6 inches.

  • There are no suspension or frame lift laws. However, vehicles have bumper height restrictions based on the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).

  • Cars and SUVs – The maximum height of the front and rear bumper is 22 inches.

  • 4,500 GVWR or less - Maximum front bumper height - 24 inches, rear - 26 inches.

  • 4,501–7,500 GVW - Maximum front bumper height - 27 inches, rear - 29 inches.

  • 7,501–10,000 GVW - Maximum front bumper height - 28 inches, rear - 31 inches.

ENGINES

Ohio has no regulations on engine modification or replacement. However, the following counties require emissions testing:

  • Cuyahoga
  • With Geau
  • lake
  • Loraine
  • Medina
  • Volok
  • Summit

Lighting and windows

Lanterns

  • Headlights must emit white light.
  • A spotlight emitting white light is allowed.
  • The fog lamp must emit yellow, light yellow or white light.

Window tinting

  • Windshield tinting should allow 70% of the light to pass through.
  • Front side windows must let in more than 50% of the light.
  • The back and back glass can have any darkening.
  • Reflective tinting cannot reflect more than a normal untinted window.
  • A sticker indicating the permissible tinting limits must be placed between the glass and the film on all tinted windows.

Vintage/classic car modifications

Ohio offers historic plates for cars over 25 years old. The plates allow you to drive to exhibitions, parades, club events and only for repairs - everyday driving is not allowed.

If you want to make sure modifications to your vehicle are legal in Ohio, AvtoTachki can provide mobile mechanics to help you install 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.

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