Colorado’s code is, unfortunately, not written very clearly. The section on suspension modifications states only that the manufacturer’s original design must not be altered. It is believed that suspension lifts are still allowed as long as they are of the same design (leaf springs, for example) as the factory suspension system. Other than that, aftermarket wheels and tires, performance shocks, aftermarket bumpers, and grille guards are allowed.
 Code |
The Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS) and Code of Colorado Regulations (CCR) explain the street legal laws for the state. |
CRS Title 42 CCR Title 204 |
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 Dimensions |
The maximum vehicle size in Colorado is 102 inches wide, 13 feet tall, and 45 feet long for a single vehicle. |
CRS 42-4-502 CRS 42-4-504 |
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 Tires |
Tires must be in safe operating condition, without any bulges or exposed cords. Colorado requires a minimum tire tread depth of 1/16 inch. It is unclear if tire grooving is permitted. |
CRS 42-4-228 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Wheels |
Colorado’s code makes no reference to wheels. |
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 Brakes |
All vehicles in Colorado must have brakes on all 4 wheels capable of stopping the vehicle from a speed of 20 mph within 45 feet. A secondary, mechanical, parking brake is also required. |
CRS 42-4-223 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Steering |
Colorado does not have any rules for a vehicle’s steering system. |
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 Suspension |
In Colorado, it is illegal to drive a vehicle with the front or rear suspension system altered or changed from the manufacturer’s original design. Heavy duty springs and shock absorbers are allowed to be installed. Note: This law was found to be unconstitutionally overboard (People v. Von Tersch). |
CRS 42-4-233 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Frame |
Colorado does not have a vehicle frame height restriction. |
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 Bumpers |
There is no reference to bumpers in either of Colorado’s codes. |
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 Fenders |
Fenders and mud flaps are not listed in Colorado’s laws. |
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 Lights |
In addition to headlights and tail lights, vehicles in Colorado are allowed to have auxiliary lighting. When a vehicle is equipped with extra lighting, the maximum number of lights that can be turned on in the front of the vehicle is 4.
( Measured to the center of the light. ) |
CRS 42-4-212 CRS 42-4-206 CRS 42-4-214 CRS 42-4-219 |
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 Windows |
Colorado’s code references many rules on windshields but it does not state whether or not they are required. If a vehicle is equipped with a windshield, it must also have windshield wipers. |
CRS 42-4-227 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Exhaust |
In Colorado, vehicles are required to be equipped with mufflers and it is prohibited to install any kind of exhaust cutout or bypass. |
CRS 42-4-225 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Engine |
All engine changes in Colorado must pass a technical inspection. The engine must be fuel injected and be of the same year or newer than the original engine. Emissions standards for the year of the new engine will apply to the vehicle. |
CCR 204-11-407 CCR-204-11-209 |
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 Emissions |
Several counties in Colorado require annual or bi-annual emissions testing. |