Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has uncovered 380 offences involving illegal vehicle modifications during a series of enforcement operations conducted across the island.
The crackdown targeted motorists who had made unauthorised changes to their vehicles, including illegal exhaust systems, improper lighting installations and non-compliant number plates.
In a social media update published on June 26, LTA said the enforcement action formed part of its ongoing efforts to ensure vehicles on Singapore’s roads comply with safety and regulatory standards.
Authorities warned that illegal modifications can compromise road safety and create unnecessary risks for other road users.
Illegal Exhausts, Lights and Number Plates Among Most Common Offences
According to LTA, around 70 vehicles were found to be fitted with illegal exhaust systems, while another 80 vehicles were detected using improper lighting setups.
The agency also identified approximately 90 vehicles displaying improper number plates. These included plates that were incorrectly sized, not clearly visible, or not prominently displayed at both the front and rear of the vehicle as required by regulations.
Photographs released by LTA showed several examples of the violations discovered during the operations.
One motorcycle was found with both an illegal exhaust system and a number plate that did not meet the required dimensions. Another motorcycle was also photographed displaying an improperly sized number plate.
The enforcement exercise additionally uncovered a BMW fitted with a laser-engraved number plate, a modification that authorities said affects the visibility and readability of the vehicle registration number.
Laser-Engraved Number Plates Raise Visibility Concerns
LTA highlighted that laser engraving on number plates can make vehicle identification more difficult, particularly under certain lighting conditions or when viewed from a distance.
Clear and standardised number plates are important for law enforcement purposes, including traffic monitoring, accident investigations and the detection of traffic offences.
Authorities have repeatedly reminded vehicle owners that modifications affecting vehicle identification features may breach Singapore’s transport regulations.
The agency urged motorists to ensure their vehicles comply with approved specifications before making any alterations.
Heavy Penalties for Illegal Vehicle Modifications
Motorists found guilty of carrying out illegal vehicle modifications face severe penalties under Singapore law.
The offence can result in a fine of up to S$20,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
For offences involving improper number plates, offenders may be fined up to S$1,000, jailed for up to three months, or receive both penalties.
Repeat offenders face significantly harsher consequences, with penalties potentially doubled for both offences.
LTA said it will continue conducting regular enforcement operations to deter non-compliant vehicle modifications and maintain safety standards on Singapore’s roads.