Small stones, big banNo MOT because of glitter in the car! Which decorations are allowed and which are not

Decoration can beautify a car – or cost you a fine.
Adobe
A few stones don't hurt, do they?
A TikToker who embellished her car steering wheel with glitter apparently thought so too. It's just a shame that it didn't pass the MOT. The reason for the strict rules about how you can upgrade your car – and what you should definitely leave behind.
Glitter becomes a “fragmentation grenade”
“Didn’t pass the MOT because of a bit of glitter.” The fact that her “Glowmobile” now has to do without glitter on the steering wheel is clearly a problem for TikToker “Lifeofglory” in her videos on the topic. The TÜV apparently complained about a glittering ring that they placed around the BMW symbol in the middle of the steering wheel. He has to go now.
And for good reason, as another user explains in his own video on the topic: If the airbag inflates in a possible accident, the plastic on the steering wheel bursts. If it has been previously decorated with sparkling rhinestones, these can also fall off – and in the worst case, they will be pressed into the driver's face, eyes, nose or mouth.
“In the end, you’re putting a complete fragmentation grenade in your own steering wheel,” he summarizes. He also advises against steering wheel surrounds if they don't fit perfectly. “It’s not petty from the TÜV, it’s simply dangerous.”
This decoration is prohibited in the vehicle interior
When decorating the vehicle interior should Anything that is not secured should be avoided and could fly through the car while driving. In the worst case scenario, objects can become an incalculable projectile or get stuck under the pedals when you brake hard. According to the ADAC, failure to comply will result in a fine of at least 35 euros.
In addition, the Driver's view not be impaired by decoration, otherwise there may be a fine of 10 euros. According to the ACE Auto Club Europe, no more than 0.1 m² or a quarter of the windshield may be covered. The field of vision must remain clear. In the case of vignettes or environmental stickers, it is therefore recommended to attach them from the inside to the edge of the upper area on the passenger side.
Reading tip: There are five things you should always have with you in the car – otherwise it will be expensive!
Even those on special ones Light effects in the car You should be careful: For example, Christmas fairy lights, LED decorations or flashing figures are prohibited in the car as they can blind drivers and other road users, according to the ADAC. According to Section 49a StVZO (Road Traffic Licensing Regulations), only the prescribed lighting devices are permitted. Otherwise there is a risk of a fine of up to 20 euros, and in extreme cases the operating license may even expire. In the event of a possible accident, you may also be held liable.
Who his Rear view mirror If you want to decorate, you should make sure that pendants are not too big and do not have too much room for movement, according to bussgeldkatalog.org. The decoration could otherwise irritate the driver while driving and restrict the field of vision.
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Flags for the World Cup? This decoration on the outside of the car is permitted
Even if you want to decorate the outside of your car – for example to match the World Cup – you have to adhere to the StVZO. Headlights, indicators and license plates must not be covered, Flags, mirror socks and co. must be attached and secured in accordance with the instructions for use. In addition, the maximum speed stated on the warning labels on the decorative items must be adhered to. If the requirements are ignored, 65 to 80 euros may be due. In the event of an accident, even 120 euros and one point in Flensburg.
At Foils, stickers or lettering The driver's field of vision must cover at least an angle of 180 degrees. For example, window flags may only be attached to the windows from the B-pillar of the car, i.e. to the windows of the rear seats. Even when looking in the rearview mirror, the driver's vision must not be impaired.
Anyone who is thinking about getting their mirrors for the World Cup with one Mirror sock To beautify, you should only do this if there are no sensors for driving safety systems – for example a blind spot assistant – or indicators in the side mirrors. If in doubt, these will no longer work properly.
In short: This is allowed in vehicle decoration – this is not
So: If you want to decorate your car with stickers, foil, small pendants, stick-on lucky charms or even a little glitter, you can basically do that. However, do so carefully and not in every part of the vehicle.
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Field of vision, indicators, headlights, brake lights and license plates must remain clear
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Additional lighting in or on the car is not permitted
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When decorating outside, pay attention to warnings, operating instructions and maximum speed limits
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Decoration in the interior must be secured
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No jewelry on airbags
The most important thing is that road safety is not compromised – otherwise accidents and fines can occur.
Sources used: TikTok, ADAC, ACE, bussgeldkatalog.org, SV-Sachsen





