In France, this otherwise very popular accessory is banned in your car

Many motorists want to 'pimp' up their vehicle by opting for specific accessories, some of which are subject to strict regulations.

And if you don't comply with the conditions for using these accessories, a fine is assured.

Heated seats, sober or more vibrant colours, license plates... the possibilities to customize one's car are numerous. However, French drivers cannot do as they please with their car; the law on automotive accessories is clear. In case of fine tuning, they can equip their car with a powerful audio system, change the rims, apply stickers... but they cannot install tinted windows. And even though these windows, beyond aesthetics, seem ideal for reducing glare from the sun or preserving passengers' privacy, they're nonetheless regulated by French law.

A matter of road safety

Since 1 January 2017, decree 2016-488 has imposed specific rules on the transparency rate of the front windows of vehicles, according to Demotivateur. A transmission rate of at least 70% of visible light (VLT) must be maintained. In short, the windows cannot be too dark. The rule was set up to allow law enforcement to clearly identify motorists and passengers at the front of a vehicle.

However, this regulation doesn't concern the rear windows or the rear windscreen.

Is your vehicle equipped with overly tinted windows? Beware, you risk a fine of 135 euros and a deduction of three points from your driving licence, states Demotivateur. In the event of a road check, the police might require immediate compliance.

(MH with AsD - Source: Demotivateur - Illustration: ©Unsplash)