CONCORD, N.C. -- NASCAR issued an L1-level penalty to the No. 4 team of Stewart-Haas Racing after finding two rules infractions after Kevin Harvick's victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

The violations were discovered during teardown inspection at the NASCAR R&D Center. The team was found to have been in violation of Sections 20.4.8.1 and 20.4.18, which are related to the rear window support and structure and rocker panel extensions, respectively. According to NASCAR, a brace that supports the rear window at all times failed and did not meet specifications. The team's rocker panel extension did not meet NASCAR specs, as it was not made of aluminum.

As a result of the violations, Harvick was penalized 20 championship driver points and the team will lose 20 championship owner points. But the biggest impact will be felt in the postseason, as Harvick will not reap the important playoff points from Las Vegas after sweeping both stages and taking the checkered flag at LVMS. As a result, Harvick's playoff point total will drop from 13 to six heading to ISM Raceway.

Harvick dominated the Las Vegas event, leading five times for a total of 214 laps after starting on the outside pole. 

Car chief Robert Smith has been suspended for the next two points races and crew chief Rodney Childers was fined $50,000. NASCAR announced that the No. 4 team has the right to appeal the ruling to the National Motorsports Appeals Panel.