Before you modify your vehicle

If you are thinking about modifying, customising or re-tuning your car, do it properly – it might cost you a bit extra, but if you don't do it the right way it could cost you your life.

Your modification might need Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification.

If the modification you want requires LVV certification, start with the experts.

• Discuss the modification with someone who has already successfully completed such a modification.
• Check the technical standards information on the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association's (LVVTA) website and find out what is required to ensure your vehicle remains safe.
• Contact your local LVV certifier(external link)

Take special care with . . .

• Modified suspensions, which could alter the handling characteristics of your vehicle. If the modification exceeds a specified threshold, the vehicle must be checked by an LVV certifier.
  LVVTA's infosheet on modification thresholds(external link)
• Some engine conversions or engine modifications which could result in the braking system being inadequate for the performance potential of your car. An LVV certifier will ensure that your braking system remains safe.
• A racing seat, which can provide you with better support, but if it is incorrectly attached and positioned in the vehicle, it can adversely affect the way that your seatbelt protects you in a crash.
• Steering modifications, which should be done only by experts. The inherent dangers in modifying steering systems mean it is essential that you get a LVV certifier to check these.

What you must do

• Before modifying your vehicle, be sure that it will remain safe.
• Check if the modification requires LVV certification. Some modifications will be covered by Warrant of Fitness (WoF) inspection requirements but others will need to be certified by an LVV certifier.
• Talk to a WoF inspector about the limits set out in their Vehicle inspection requirements manual, or talk to an LVV certifier, or read the infosheet on modification thresholds.
  LVVTA's infosheet on modification thresholds(external link)

A heavily modified vehicle must have an LVV certification plate

LVV certification plate in use until February 2021

LVV data plate in current use

• You must get an LVV certification before you can get a WoF. LVV certification fees vary a lot depending on the extent of the modification. Visit the LVVTA website for more information on costs.
  LVVTA certification costs information(external link)
• The LVV certifier arranges to get a plate for your modified vehicle. You must go back to the certifier who will fit the plate to a permanent part of the vehicle body. You must have the LVV plate fitted within two months from the time of the vehicle's certification inspection. If you do not get the plate, the vehicle is not certified. This means your vehicle is not legal.
• You may need to get a new LVV certification for any subsequent modifications. Keep your LVV certification up to date.

Why are modifications checked?

The rules about modifications were made to ensure that you and your passengers are in safe vehicles. Without LVV certification, you could be putting your own and other road users lives at risk. For example, if you modify your steering or suspension, you could alter the way your vehicle handles. This could cause you to lose control of your vehicle when you need it most, killing you and your passengers.

For more information contact LVVTA

Website: www.lvvta.org.nz(external link)

Email: info@lvvta.org.nz

Phone: (04) 238 4343

Last updated: 15 May 2023