What are the laws about exhaust systems that are too loud?

In California, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with an exhaust system that is too loud. The law states that vehicles must have a muffler at all times, and the muffler must be in good working order and maintain a noise level consistent with the original design of the vehicle. In terms of decibels, the maximum noise level a vehicle can produce is 95 dB for passenger cars and 100 dB for trucks, with different limits for vehicles built before August 1, 1978. If your vehicle produces a noise level higher than the limit, you can be fined. In addition, it is illegal to modify your exhaust system by removing, disconnecting, or altering any of the components. It is also illegal to replace a muffler with one that is louder than the factory-installed muffler. It is important to note that the law is not just about being a good neighbor by avoiding loud noises. High noise levels from modified or altered exhaust systems can be dangerous for other drivers and pedestrians. The noise can also interfere with other people’s quality of life, causing stress and mental discomfort. Therefore, if you want to keep your vehicle running smoothly, it is important to stay within the legal limits and keep the muffler in good condition.

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What are the laws about exhaust systems that are too loud?

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