FG bonnets and ADR/NATIONAL CODE OF PRACTICE

[Zaphod]

Reading section 4.3.2:

4.3.2 Fibreglass and Other Composite Replacement Panels
Original bolt-on metal bonnets and mudguards for pre 1971 (ADR 10) vehicles may be replaced with fibreglass or other composite panels that comply with sub-section 2.7, providing the modification does not increase the rigidity of the front structure of the vehicle and the collapsibility of the steering column on ADR 10 vehicle is not compromised.

Would suggest you can only do it for pre-1971 vehicles?

The section you posted seems to refer to the fabrication of vehicles - i.e. kit-cars etc.


Don't get me wrong - I'd like to get a fibreglass bonnet if poss, just seems there's no definitive answer...

[belle_tb_ES]

I have been told different things. In terms of Carbon Fibre bonnets. .

I have been told by one insurer that it isn't illegal but they won't insure it

And have been told that it is ok as long as it is secured in 4 points

[rokpapaziz]

I guess you would have to make sure the aftermarket bonnet you buy is ADR tested and approved if you don't want trouble with defects.

[Zaphod]

It looks like it's a case of them not saying it's specifically illegal, so they can nail you depending on the circumstances (i.e. if they feel like it...)

[shadow-vex]

after skimming through this, everyone has raised good points, but from experience at the end of the day it doesn't matter if it is legal or not, as you can still receive a defect if the cop is in a bad mood and wants to meet his quota. also keep in mind, police don't actually receive any mechanical training and they do not know everything about cars, so by law, the cop can defect your car for having a stock part on it, and it is up to you to waste your time and go to court to get it removed and not pay for it.
just a quick tip before I post this, if you do want a CF bonnet just paint it to match the colour of your car, as a cop cant tell tht it is CF unless he/she touches it, which they are not allowed to do without a warrant, so if they do open your bonnet, they have broken the law, and can not issue a fine/defect, just something to think about.