No, squatted trucks—vehicles modified to ride on oversized tires—are illegal in Argentina under national traffic safety laws. The Secretaría de Transporte de la Nación enforces Ley 24.449 (Tránsito y Seguridad Vial), which prohibits modifications that alter a vehicle’s original dimensions or load-bearing capacity. Local jurisdictions (e.g., GCBA in Buenos Aires) may impose additional fines or impoundment for non-compliance, with 2026 amendments tightening enforcement against “modificaciones peligrosas.”
Key Regulations for Squatted Trucks in Argentina
- Ley 24.449 (Art. 30): Bans structural modifications that compromise vehicle stability, including tire size increases exceeding manufacturer specifications.
- Resolución 96/2019 (Secretaría de Transporte): Mandates technical inspections (VTV) to certify compliance; squatted trucks fail structural integrity checks.
- Códigos de Tránsito Provinciales: Local ordinances (e.g., CABA Ordenanza 50.927) classify squatted trucks as “vehículos no aptos” for public roads, subject to towing and fines up to ARS 50,000.
Enforcement prioritizes urban areas (Buenos Aires, Córdoba) due to collision risks. Insurers may deny coverage for modified vehicles, creating financial liability. International operators must adhere to Mercosur Resolution 33/94, which harmonizes vehicle safety standards across member states.