Knox and outer-east 4WD modification engineers under investigation over illegal works
More 4WDs are hitting the streets with illegal “monster truck-style” modifications. And one highway patrol cop has described the two features making them more likely to “tip over or become out of control”.
Outer East
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Souped-up 4WDs with illegal modifications are on the rise and police are warning drivers they’re not safe.
Knox Highway Patrol police are targeting drivers of these vehicles and investigating engineers known for signing off on the modifications, which include massive tyres and suspension lifts.
Leading Senior Constable Adam Pettett said the number of illegal “monster truck”-style modifications were becoming more prevalent.
“It changes the centre of gravity, so if you raise it, the tipping point is increased,” Sen-Constable Pettett said.
“If it goes around a corner it could fall or tip over or become out of control.”
He said illegal modifications could also throw the speedometer out of whack by 10km/h.
“You think you’re doing 100km/h, but you’re actually doing 110km/h,” Sen-Constable Pettett said.
Airbags are also not safe and during an accident could fail to open, he said.
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He said most of the modifications had been done by an engineer and police were investigating the mechanics responsible for signing off on those jobs.
Police are handing out defect notices and Sen-Constable Pettett said many compliance certificates were being turned down by police.
Sen-Constable Pettett advised anyone wanting to modify their cars to check what was safe and legal by contacting the Knox Police Station at 414 Burwood Hwy, Wantirna South or 9881 7000.