Crackdown on Vehicles With OEM Tinted Glass. The Punjab Traffic Police have officially suspended the crackdown on vehicles fitted with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tinted glass, bringing relief to thousands of motorists across Lahore and other parts of Punjab. The decision follows a recent amendment to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance, which clarifies the legal status of factory-installed tinted windows.
This move corrects earlier enforcement practices that led to widespread complaints from vehicle owners who were fined despite having manufacturer-installed tinted glass. Below is a complete, SEO-optimized breakdown of what the decision means, what is allowed, and what remains illegal under traffic laws.
Crackdown on Vehicles With OEM Tinted Glass Suspended
Authorities have halted action against vehicles equipped with factory-fitted (OEM) tinted side and rear windows, confirming that such glass does not violate current traffic laws. The clarification was issued by the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic, who stated that enforcement must now strictly align with the updated legal framework.
As a result, traffic wardens have been instructed not to issue fines or register cases against vehicles that come with tinted glass installed directly by the manufacturer.
What Is OEM Tinted Glass?
OEM tinted glass refers to windows tinted at the factory level by the vehicle manufacturer. This type of tint is:
- Embedded within the glass during manufacturing
- Uniform and compliant with safety standards
- Designed to reduce glare and heat without obstructing visibility
Unlike aftermarket tints, OEM tinting is part of the vehicle’s original design and is internationally recognized as legal unless explicitly banned.
DIG Traffic Issues Clear Instructions
According to the DIG Traffic:
- Side and rear OEM tinted windows are legal
- No challans or FIRs should be issued for factory-installed tinted glass
- Enforcement action should only target illegal or aftermarket tinting
Formal written instructions have been circulated to traffic police units across Lahore and the rest of Punjab, directing officers to strictly follow the revised policy.
Why Was the Crackdown Suspended?
The suspension comes after:
- Numerous complaints from vehicle owners
- Evidence that OEM-fitted vehicles were wrongly fined
- A legal amendment clarifying ambiguity in the Motor Vehicle Ordinance
Officials acknowledged that earlier enforcement drives mistakenly included OEM-tinted vehicles, which prompted public dissatisfaction and legal concerns.
The latest decision ensures that law enforcement actions are consistent with the law, preventing unnecessary harassment of motorists.
Aftermarket vs OEM Tinted Glass: Key Difference
| Feature | OEM Tinted Glass | Aftermarket Tinted Glass |
|---|---|---|
| Installed by | Vehicle manufacturer | Vehicle owner or third party |
| Legal status | Legal under current law | Illegal if exceeds limits |
| Enforcement action | No fines or cases | Strict action continues |
| Visibility compliance | Factory safety standards | Often violates visibility rules |
What Remains Illegal Under Traffic Laws?
While the crackdown on OEM tinted glass has been suspended, authorities have emphasized that illegal tinting will still face strict enforcement.
Illegal Practices Include:
- Applying additional tint film over OEM glass
- Installing dark aftermarket tints
- Using reflective or mirror tints
- Reducing visibility beyond permitted safety limits
Motorists found violating these rules will continue to face fines, challans, and possible legal action.
Punjab Traffic Police Advisory for Motorists
The Punjab Traffic Police has advised drivers to:
- Ensure their vehicle has only factory-installed tinted glass
- Avoid applying extra or unauthorized tinting
- Keep vehicle documents available to prove OEM specifications if needed
Authorities stressed that compliance is the responsibility of the vehicle owner, even if enforcement against OEM tint has been relaxed.
Impact on Vehicle Owners
This policy change provides major relief to:
- Owners of imported vehicles
- Owners of locally manufactured cars with OEM tint
- Motorists previously fined despite legal compliance
It also restores public trust in traffic law enforcement, ensuring citizens are not penalized for lawful vehicle features.
Alignment With the Motor Vehicle Ordinance
The recent amendment to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance clarifies that:
- Laws target visibility obstruction, not factory design
- OEM safety standards are recognized
- Enforcement must be evidence-based and lawful
This correction aligns Punjab’s traffic enforcement with international best practices.
Public Reaction and Legal Clarity
Vehicle owners and legal experts have welcomed the move, calling it a necessary correction. Many argued that factory-installed tinted glass:
- Is approved by global safety regulators
- Enhances passenger comfort
- Does not compromise law enforcement visibility
The clarification eliminates confusion that previously existed due to inconsistent interpretation of traffic rules.
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Conclusion
The suspension of the crackdown on vehicles with OEM tinted glass marks a significant step toward fair and lawful traffic enforcement in Punjab. While factory-installed tinted windows are now clearly exempt from penalties, authorities have made it equally clear that illegal aftermarket tinting will not be tolerated.
Motorists are advised to stay informed, comply with the law, and avoid unauthorized modifications to ensure a smooth and hassle-free driving experience.
