Koblenz, Germany – On April 19, 2025, the Tuning-Kontrollteam of the Koblenz police department conducted targeted traffic controls aimed at tuners, racers, and so-called "autoposers". This initiative marked the first time that such specialized traffic checks were performed on Easter Saturday, a day typically associated with family gatherings and holiday festivities. However, the focus was firmly on maintaining road safety and curbing reckless driving practices.
During these operations, numerous vehicles were checked at the Peter-Altmeier-Ufer, a popular location for car enthusiasts. While the number of technically modified vehicles was lower than the previous day, a significant number of autoposers were still observed and scrutinized. In twelve instances, officers found that the operating licenses of vehicles had expired, leading to immediate prohibitions on further travel for those drivers.
In addition to checking for expired licenses, the police initiated 15 administrative offense proceedings due to unnecessary noise generation from vehicles. This is a frequent issue in the tuning scene, where some drivers modify their cars to produce louder exhaust sounds, often disturbing local residents.
Speeding violations were also a major concern during the traffic checks. The fastest driver recorded on this day was clocked at a staggering 145 km/h in a zone where the speed limit was just 50 km/h. This reckless behavior not only endangers the driver but also poses a significant risk to other road users. As a result, the driver faces a hefty fine and a three-month driving ban.
Moreover, police apprehended another driver who was found to be under the influence of cocaine. This serious infraction led to the seizure of the driver's license and the initiation of criminal proceedings against them. Such actions reflect the authorities' commitment to ensuring that roads remain safe for all users, particularly during high-traffic periods like holidays.
Earlier, on April 18, 2025, the Tuning-Kontrollteam, in collaboration with the traffic surveillance unit of the Koblenz public order office, had already conducted similar traffic controls. Approximately 350 vehicles were observed at the Globus parking lot in Koblenz-Bubenheim throughout the day. Interestingly, there was a noted decline in the overall tuning scene in the greater Koblenz area compared to the previous year, suggesting that efforts to regulate this aspect of car culture may be having an effect.
Despite the overall decrease in tuning activities, 23 drivers were prohibited from continuing their journeys on April 18 due to expired vehicle operating licenses. Additionally, authorities initiated several fines against posers who were causing unnecessary noise. In a further crackdown, 20 vehicles were ticketed for illegal parking, blocking both resident parking spaces and bus zones at Peter-Altmeier-Ufer.
Speed measurements on that day also revealed alarming results, with ten driving bans issued. The highest recorded speed was 135 km/h in a 50 km/h zone, underscoring the ongoing issue of speeding within the tuning community.
As part of their ongoing efforts, police and traffic officials maintained a strong presence at the Nürburgring, a well-known hotspot for car enthusiasts. Despite inclement weather, thousands gathered to showcase their vehicles and admire others, a tradition that continues to draw crowds year after year. However, not all attendees adhered to the laws, as some were found to be operating vehicles with illegal modifications.
The police reported that nearly 400 vehicles and around 500 individuals were checked around the Nürburgring on April 18. This resulted in ten criminal proceedings being initiated, including three for driving under the influence, one for forgery, and two for violations of compulsory insurance laws. Almost 150 administrative offense proceedings were initiated, with 60 specifically for expired operating licenses, and 35 defect reports issued.
In the Neuwied police department area, between 4 PM and 8 PM on April 18, authorities checked 22 cars and two motorcycles. This led to five cases where the operating licenses were found to be expired. Additionally, two administrative offense reports were recorded for causing unnecessary noise, one for defective tires, and four speeding violations were penalized.
These coordinated efforts by the police and traffic authorities reflect a proactive approach to maintaining safety on the roads, particularly in areas frequented by car enthusiasts. As the tuning scene continues to evolve, the authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to balance the passion for automotive culture with the need for public safety.
The Tuning-Kontrollteam's operations serve as a reminder that while car enthusiasts are welcome to enjoy their vehicles, they must do so responsibly and within the bounds of the law. With ongoing checks and increased enforcement, the hope is to foster a safer environment for all road users.
