I'm planning in running without a spare soon. I am planning in pulling off the spare tire carrier, plastic thing, and the third break light! will I have any problems with the police? I live in Utah, any laws against it? and is it hard to take off? I'm sure it's not to hard but any tips?

 

comes off very easy...just 5-6 bolts and a plug inside your door (pull off the grate on the inside) Not sure on the legal issues. I know most in AZ have removed and have not heard any issues.

 

ok cool. thanks! it would look real odd without a Spare and still have the light!

 

Technically it is against federal law to remove any safety device that is required by fedeal standards (like 3rd brake light). In states with vehicle inspection laws probably would get in trouble. Most city cops won't bother you. Some county and state cops may.

 

Most federally mandated safety items cannot be removed by a commercial shop or mechanic.
When I researched installing a frame mounted hitch on my '01 VW Golf, I found out it was perfectly legal for me, as the vehicle owner, to remove the 5mph bumper so the Euro spec hitch could be installed.
The way the law is written, a commercial shop cannot do that.
I remember deciding to reinstall the 5mph bumper should I sell the VW, but I don't remember if made that decision because it would be required.

Removing the 3rd brake light may be an issue at inspection, or in court if someone rear-ends you.

 

Yea, because that third brake light is the one that does the trick!!

 

Been running without one now for over a year in the Maryland/DC area and have not been stopped for it yet.

 

Seriously, I have no idea what the laws are but I see how often they are enforced and ... I generaly say F' it

 

I'm sure the police wont care. you do have the 2 others lights and i'll bet half of them wont even know there was a third light. If anything just Google it. Google is your best friend sometimes