Planning to use a lift kit on your vehicle? While the benefits, such as improved off-road capability and increased ground clearance, are appealing, it’s crucial to consider the legal aspects of lift kits in your state.
Every jurisdiction has unique regulations on vehicle modifications, including lift heights and related changes. These rules are crucial for ensuring road safety and vehicle stability, so it’s vital to stay informed.
Let’s discuss the ins and outs of lift kit regulations in your state!
What are the rules per state?
As of 2024, each Australian state has the following regulations regarding lift kits. Note that they are subject to change. So, if you plan on installing a lift kit on your vehicle, you should double-check your state government website to ensure compliance.
New South Wales
In New South Wales, vehicle owners are permitted a maximum lift of 75mm total, including up to 25mm from the tyre lift and 50mm from the suspension lift. However, it's important to note that any lifts exceeding 75mm require certification from an accredited engineer to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Queensland
Queensland allows a maximum lift of 50mm without the need for certification. For those seeking a more significant modification, lifts between 50-75mm are permissible but require certification by a licensed vehicle certifier to ensure safety and legal compliance.
Victoria
Victoria's regulations permit a maximum lift of 50mm without approval. However, vehicle owners wishing to exceed this limit must obtain approval from VicRoads engineers. In some cases, lifts exceeding 50mm may necessitate a vehicle inspection or certification to ensure roadworthiness.
Western Australia
In Western Australia, vehicle owners can implement a maximum total lift of 50mm, a combination of suspension, body lift, and tyre modifications, without requiring certification. Any lifts surpassing the 50mm threshold must be certified by an approved engineer to maintain legal compliance.
South Australia
South Australia allows a maximum lift of 50mm without certification. Modifications exceeding 50 mm are permissible for those desiring a more substantial lift, but they require certification by an approved engineer to ensure the vehicle meets safety standards.
Tasmania
Tasmania has a maximum legal lift height of 50mm. Vehicles that exceed this limit must be certified by a licensed vehicle certifier to ensure compliance with state regulations and safety standards.
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory offers more flexibility, allowing vehicles to be lifted to 100mm without certification, including tyres, body, and suspension modifications. However, for lifts exceeding 100mm, vehicle owners must obtain TAC assessment and engineering certification, which includes a lane change test to ensure vehicle stability and safety.
What penalties can I incur if I don’t follow my state’s legal lift kit laws?
If you don't follow your state's legal lift kit laws, you can face several penalties, including:
- Fines: These are common penalties for not following vehicle modification regulations. Fines can differ by state, but here are a few examples:
- In Victoria, you could receive a $769 infringement notice or a maximum court-imposed penalty of $3,846.
- In New South Wales, the maximum fine for failing to comply with vehicle standards is $2,200.
- In Queensland, driving a 'defective' vehicle (including non-compliant modifications) can result in a $154 fine and one demerit point, with a maximum penalty of $3,226.
- In South Australia, breaching light vehicle standards can lead to a $584 fine.
- In Tasmania, driving a vehicle not compliant with relevant standards can incur a maximum penalty of $243.75.
- Defect notices: Your vehicle may be issued a defect notice, requiring you to fix the non-compliant modifications within a specified timeframe.
- Vehicle impoundment: In some cases, authorities may impound your vehicle if it's deemed unsafe due to illegal modifications.
- Insurance issues: Non-compliant modifications can potentially void your insurance coverage, leaving you financially vulnerable in case of an accident.
- Roadworthiness certification: You may be required to have your vehicle inspected and certified as roadworthy, which can involve additional costs.
- Demerit points: In some jurisdictions, driving a non-compliant vehicle may result in demerit points on your license.
- Legal consequences: Repeated offences or severe violations could lead to more serious legal consequences, including potential license suspension.
Legal Lift Kit Compliance Tips
Follow these tips to reap the benefits of a lift kit while staying within legal limits and ensuring your vehicle's safety:
- Use approved components. Ensure all lift kit parts are designed for your specific vehicle model and meet relevant safety standards.
- Maintain vehicle stability. The lift should not compromise handling, braking, or safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
- Consider combined lift effects. Remember that the total lift includes both suspension modifications and increased tyre size.
- Undergo required testing. For larger lifts, your vehicle may need to pass stability tests like lane-change and ESC functionality tests.
- Keep documentation. Maintain all certification paperwork and approvals in case you're pulled over or need to show compliance.
- Regular inspections. Have your lifted vehicle inspected regularly to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.
- Consult professionals. Work with reputable lift kit retailers and certified engineers who understand the legal requirements for lift kits.
- Check insurance implications. Inform your insurer about the modifications to ensure your policy remains valid.
Embrace the benefits of a lift kit by using approved components, maintaining vehicle stability, and keeping your documentation in order. With the right approach, you can enjoy your lifted ride while staying within legal limits.
If you’re unsure of anything, contact us! Also, monitor regulatory changes to maximise your driving experience safely!
