The Land Transport Authority has cautioned drivers against modification of their vehicles without prior approval.

This came to light after some vehicles recently caught fire said to be the result of modifications.

LTA chief executive Carmine Piantedosi said modifications needed to be in accordance with the regulations.

“There are a number of reasons or potential causes for a vehicle to catch fire,” Mr Piantedosi said.

“Illegal electrical modifications, improper wiring on electrical modifications, improper wiring on taxi meters, improper fitting of extra lights, stereos, incorrect loading of circuits, are some reasons.”

He said that prior approval must be obtained from LTA as all modifications need to be in accordance with the Vehicle Registration & Construction Regulations 2000.

“All electrical wirings must be done by an LTA Accredited Workshop under the supervision of an Auto Electrician conforming to LTA Standards.

He further stated that through its compliance programme, any approved modification is thoroughly inspected according to the LTA Safety Standards and Compliance.

“Hybrid vehicles (or any vehicle for that matter) that fail to meet these requirements during initial registration or renewal of registration will not be passed,” he said.

“The owner then needs to repair or reverse defects before the vehicle can be passed.

“All illegal and improper electrical modifications are inspected for compliance by the Vehicle Inspection department.

“The LTA in the past has published media releases and raised awareness in relation to the risks associated with illegal installations on all vehicles.”

Edited by Karalaini Waqanidrola

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