It’s safe to say that while you do not need to inform JPJ about changing your rims or your tyres, ‘hellaflush’ modifications (pictured above) are still illegal.
UPGRADING to sportier rims and meatier tyres is one of the most popular modifications amongst Malaysian car enthusiasts.
But concerns about getting slapped with a summons during a spot check have led many motorists to wonder whether they're breaking the law by not informing the Road Transport Department about their wheel upgrades.
The worry is real, especially given how seriously JPJ takes vehicle modifications. But will you actually get a summons if you don't report changing your tyre size to the authorities?
Verdict:
FALSE
You will not get a summons for failing to report tyre size changes to JPJ, as this modification does not require prior notification or approval from the department.
According to JPJ's official vehicle modification guidelines, the installation of larger rims and tyres is listed amongst modifications that can be performed without prior approval from the authorities.
This means there's no reporting requirement, and therefore no summons for not doing so, as long as the modification follows specified guidelines.
However, you can still receive a summons if your tyre modifications violate the legal conditions set by JPJ.
The key requirement is that larger rims or wider tyres must be completely covered by mudguards or mudflaps, with no protrusion beyond the vehicle's body.
This means your tyres cannot stick out like "crab legs", as some automotive websites colourfully describe it.
These modifications must also comply with the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Rules 1959 or the Motor Vehicles (Construction, Equipment and Use) Rules 1988.
The guidelines were created to explain to vehicle users the standards or conditions that need to be followed for minor modifications or the installation of additional equipment that do not change the vehicle's identity and do not interfere with its safety features.
Section 12 of the Road Transport Act 1987 sets the legal requirements regarding any modification to vehicles before and after registration, mandating that all changes must be done legally.
Car modification enthusiasts should note that whilst larger rims and tyres don't require notification, excessive modifications that affect the vehicle's characteristics, stability or safety do require written permission from JPJ.
Examples of modifications requiring JPJ approval include changes to the vehicle's frame or monocoque structure, modifications to the braking or steering systems, engine changes and alterations to the wheelbase.
The confusion about tyre size changes can be traced to JPJ's crackdown on extreme modification trends like "hellaflush" or "stance", where enthusiasts install oversized rims with stretched tyres and dramatically lowered suspensions.
According to JPJ's automotive engineering department, once a vehicle is purchased, any modification technically counts as an "unauthorised modification" unless it falls within the permitted categories outlined in their guidelines.
For larger tyres to remain legal, they must be within reasonable size increases that don't compromise road safety or vehicle handling.
Excessively wide tyres that protrude from the body or interfere with the vehicle's aerodynamics and stability will attract JPJ attention and could result in a summons.
Motorists should also be aware that illegal modifications can void vehicle insurance coverage.
Even if a modification is technically legal under JPJ guidelines, failing to inform your insurance company about changes could affect claims.
The penalties for unlawful car modifications can be severe. According to the Road Transport Act 1987, offenders can face fines of up to RM2,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.
Vehicles with unauthorised modifications may receive a PG 1 notice, banning them from the road for 10 days whilst the owner returns the car to stock condition before sending it to JPJ for inspection.
So whilst you won't get a summons for not reporting tyre changes to JPJ, you can still be penalised if your modifications don't comply with the legal parameters.
Keep your tyres tucked in, maintain proper mudguard coverage and avoid extreme fitments that compromise safety.
If you're unsure whether your planned modification falls within acceptable limits, it's always wise to consult JPJ's official guidelines or visit an authorised inspection centre before making the change.
References:
1. https://www.jpj.gov.my/en/private-commercial-vehicle-modification-guide/
3. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/09/10/melaka-jpj-issues-648-notices-in-special-operation
