Drivers risk breaking Highway Code rules over ‘Fast and Furious’ car modifications

One of the illegal changes drivers may consider including in their vehicles is nitrous oxide injection systems to boost engine power.

The boost made popular in movies by the Fast and Furious series is illegal for road use in the UK.

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The increase in speed and power makes vehicles more difficult to handle on standard roads, posing a major risk to both the driver and other road users.

Other adaptations include changes to the exhaust system to improve performance or produce a distinctive sound which could see drivers fined £50.

However, there are legal limits to how much noise an exhaust can create, and exceeding this may result in an offence.

Another restricted change includes having neon lights fitted under the car which must not be visible to other road users.

Mark Trimbee CEO of Regtransfers explained that while personalising a vehicle can be fun,“it’s important to make sure that any modifications comply with UK regulations.

He said: “Illegal modifications not only put you at risk, but they also pose a risk to the safety of other road users and pedestrians.

“If you’re planning to make any changes to your car, it’s important not to miss the step of researching restrictions to make sure your car remains legal and safe.

“If you’re not sure, speak with local law enforcement to understand the best ways to modify your car whilst remaining on the right side of the law."

Tinted headlights are also banned under UK rules and could see drivers fined £2,500 as it reduces the amount of light emitted, which can make vehicle less visible on the road.

Like exhaust modifications, changing a car horn to produce excessively loud or non-standard sounds, such as musical tones, is illegal.

Rule 112 of the Highway Code states that vehicle horns should only be used to warn another road user of a car’s presence.

Meanwhile tyres must meet safety standards, drivers travelling with ones lower than the required tread depth, is illegal and could see drivers face £1,000 fine.

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The legal minimum tread depth for car tyres in the UK is 1.6mm, modifications like studded tyres which are designed for extreme winter conditions are prohibited in non-winter conditions, as they can cause to road surfaces.