As long as they continue to adhere to the applicable UK construction standards, car owners in the UK have a long history of being able to modify their vehicles’ exhaust system to meet their unique needs. These modifications could be made only for aesthetic purposes, to make the car more useful to the owner, or to affect how it operates.
However, there are several situations in which changes could have an impact on the owner of the vehicle, its occupants, other drivers, and the general public in terms of safety, health, and/or the law. The main takeaway is that there may still be unforeseen effects even if you believe you know what you’re doing while making changes yourself. Although custom exhausts might improve a car’s performance and sound, they must adhere to UK emissions and noise standards to be allowed on the road.
Limits On Vehicle Noise
The quantity of noise that automobiles can produce on public highways is limited. This holds for all kinds of automobiles. Larger cars with larger engines can generally produce more noise.
Tire Noise Restrictions
Tyres have noise limits, and since November 2012, all new tyres have been branded and rated according to their noise level.
Adapted Exhaust System
After a vehicle has been “type approved,” meaning that it satisfies safety along with environmental regulations, it is unlawful to alter the exhaust system by rendering it noisier.
Additionally, if your car’s silencer malfunctions or you drive in a way that makes excessive noise, the police may take action.
Vehicles in Stock Vs. Modified
The phrases “stock” and “modified” are frequently used to characterize a vehicle’s condition. They describe how much a car has changed from what was originally specified by the manufacturer.
A stock car is in the same state as when it was first manufactured. There have been no notable changes made to it. The safety, emissions, and regulatory requirements imposed by the manufacturer and the appropriate authorities are usually met by stock vehicles. Additionally, product warranties usually cover them.
A modified car has been upgraded or altered beyond what was initially required. A modified car might no longer fulfil manufacturer standards for safety, emissions, or regulatory requirements, depending on the particular changes made. State legislation may also make it illegal.
Limits on Noise Emissions
Modified exhaust system making too much noise is a regular issue. To reduce vehicular noise pollution, the UK has set certain noise limits:
- Current Limits: In 2016, the UK enacted EU Regulation 540/2014, which established a 72 dB noise threshold for new cars. To drastically lower pollution from sound, this level is more stringent than earlier guidelines.
- Future Reductions: The noise level will drop to 68 dB by 2026 as part of a phased approach outlined in the law. Manufacturers and adapters of vehicles are required to make sure that these changing criteria are followed.
Implications For The Law
An offence is committed when someone uses (or causes to be used) a vehicle on a public road that does not meet the emissions criteria for which it was built.
Since modifications to a vehicle may modify the risk of being insured, all car owners ought to become aware that they must notify their insurers of any changes made regarding their vehicle, regardless of the type of modification.
Regardless of whether the insurance provider is willing to offer coverage, it is not often clear to car owners that certain changes will render the vehicle illegal to drive.
Loud Exhausts
Although it seems exciting, a loud, roaring car could annoy some people. Any modifications that exceed the 74 dB noise level are prohibited since an exhaust system cannot exceed this limit. Before being delivered to you, all cars are “type approved” under the framework of the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) program, indicating that they comply with and meet safety and emissions standards.
Additional exhaust system modifications could increase the vehicles’ environmental harm, such as altering the exhaust system management technique, tampering with the airflow management device, or removing certain elements.
Mot Examination
Every year, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) test evaluates a car’s emissions, roadworthiness, and safety:
- Exhaust System Assessment: To make sure the exhaust system satisfies noise and emissions regulations, inspectors assess it during the MOT test.
- If a changed exhaust system generates excessive noise or emissions, the MOT may fail, and the vehicle may not be allowed to be driven until the problem is fixed.
What the Police Search for
An officer may have a good reason to pull you over if you have made modifications to your vehicle. Officers search public roads for several changes, including:
The majority of cops are searching for:
- Changes in sound and noise levels, such as exhaust that is louder than 95 dB
- Mods to the frame and suspension
- Engine alterations
- Lighting aftermarket
- Tinting windows
States have different traffic rules; however, the ones mentioned above are the most common.
Not altering your vehicle is the simplest method to evade the cops in this situation. You might be able to make things right, though, if you receive a citation for making an illegal change.
Final Words:
People can help create a cleaner and healthier environment by researching and endorsing exhaust law petitions. Improvements in policy that benefit both present and future generations can be sparked by your actions. Participate in the push for environmentally conscious transportation options and cleaner air.
Also, read: Some German Cars for Short NYT: A Detailed Guide
