Legal street car performance parts are aftermarket components designed to improve a car’s performance while complying with local regulations regarding emissions and noise levels. These parts have been carefully engineered to meet legal requirements while enhancing a vehicle’s speed, acceleration, handling, and overall driving experience. Here is everything you need to know about BMW performance parts:
Contents
Why BMW Performance Parts Are Street Legal
Safety Standards
Every part designed for any BMW model has to go through rigorous testing to meet all required safety standards. This means that when you install a BMW performance part, you can be confident that it is safe and won’t compromise your vehicle’s stability, handling, or braking.
Easy Installation
Most BMW performance parts are designed to be a direct replacement for the stock parts that your car comes with. This means you don’t have to make any major modifications to your vehicle. This makes the installation process much easier and confirms that the parts function properly once they are installed.
Reduced Emission
BMW performance parts work harmoniously with your vehicle’s engine, including the exhaust system. They do not increase emissions of harmful gases like nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, or carbon monoxide.
Improved Engine Performance
These parts increase horsepower and torque, creating a more responsive and exciting driving experience. They also enhance your car’s durability and longevity, which is a great investment for any BMW owner.
How To Tell if a Performance Part Is Street Legal
Check the Product Description and Packaging
Most reputable retailers selling car performance parts specify whether the parts are street-legal or not in the product description. The packaging should also provide information about relevant certifications or approvals. A lack of this information means the item may not be street-legal.
Look for a CARB EO Number
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) enforces air pollution laws and regulates vehicle emissions. They issue Executive Orders (EO) to denote which specific products and vehicles are legal for use and sale in California. If a car performance part comes with a CARB EO number, it assures that the part complies with the state’s emissions requirements. Even if you do not live in California, a CARB EO number can assure that the part complies with federal emissions requirements.
Check With the Manufacturer
If you’re unsure about the street legality of a BMW performance part, contact the manufacturer directly. They should have the necessary information regarding whether the part is street-legal and any necessary certifications or approvals. You can ask for documentation or paperwork confirming the street legality of the part. You can also ask expert mechanics at a local BMW performance shop.
Consequences of Using Non-street Legal BMW Performance Parts
Causes Legal Issues
If you’re pulled over for a traffic violation, and the officer notices that you have non-street legal parts installed, you could be ticketed or even have your car impounded. Using these types of parts could even lead to criminal charges if they’re found to be in violation of state or federal laws.
Reduce Safety
Using non-approved or poorly designed parts can compromise the stability and handling of your vehicle. This can increase the risk of accidents or other dangerous situations. Many non-street legal parts have not been adequately tested for safety. There could be no way to know how they will perform under various driving conditions.
Damage the Vehicle
This can occur in many ways, such as increased wear and tear on fundamental components, decreased fuel efficiency, or even catastrophic failure of main parts like the engine or transmission. Repairing or replacing these damaged parts can be expensive and time-consuming, destroying your enjoyment of your BMW.
Voided Warranty
BMW vehicles come with a manufacturer’s warranty. It covers any defects or issues that arise in your car during the warranty period. Your warranty can be voided if you use non-street legal BMW performance parts. You may be responsible for the repairs and costs if anything goes wrong with your car.
Reduce Resale Value
If those parts are not street-legal, selling your car may not be easy. This is because non-compliant modifications can turn off buyers. The modifications you make can affect the resale value of your car, so use legal parts that don’t void your warranty.
Affect the Environment
Non-street legal performance parts are not as rigorously tested for emissions, which can result in higher levels of pollution. Non-street legal parts can emit gases and particles that harm the environment and your health.
Choosing BMW Performance Parts
BMW performance parts are street legal, but research before making any modifications. Check the laws in your state, consider the impact on your warranty, and confirm any upgrades won’t compromise your car’s safety. You can safely enhance your BMW’s performance and enjoy the ride with the right combination of parts and proper installation.
