Are cat back exhaust systems legal in CA? (2024)

FAQs

Can you have a cat back exhaust in California? ›

Catback exhaust systems are completely legal in the State of California because the modification starts after the catalytic converter and does not affect any of the emissions control components of your vehicle.

A vehicle will not pass the smog check without having the correct catalytic converter installed. The smog technician will inspect the CAT and verify it is designed specifically for your vehicle. Don't take you car in for a smog check without it.

Exhaust from the cats carries no CARB certification; it's all about acceptable DB rating. Anything louder than stock is illegal in Cali...

Is it now illegal to install an aftermarket exhaust system on my vehicle? No. The sale and installation of an aftermarket exhaust system remains legal in California so long as it does not exceed a sound level of 95-decibels when tested under SAE J1492 and complies with all other exhaust and safety laws and regulations.

It's a "catback" exhaust, meaning it's sitting after the catalytic converters, so it shouldn't affect emission.

You can only take it to the California Bureau of Automotive Repair to get your car's exhaust noise level checked after you get the ticket, and that trip will cost you $108. Once you have the certificate of compliance, you can have the fine waved.

Exhaust modifications are illegal only if noise emitted is over 95 decibels. Keep in mind California smog laws or other legislation may still make your custom exhaust modifications illegal. All vehicle exhaust systems must have mufflers. Any bypass, cutouts, and especially whistle tips are not permitted.

If the holes on a muffler were large enough to where fresh air would be vacuumed into a car's exhaust stream, the test results would be incorrect, and the smog machine may not even allow the smog inspection to begin or continue.

Is this Exhaust System legal in California? Expert Reply: Cat back systems like the MagnaFlow kit part # MF19198 are legal in California. The muffler doesn't affect anything emissions related so even the strict laws of California on emissions don't have a problem with them.

The bill restores the “fix-it” ticket system in place before the aggressive fines were introduced in 2018. California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill into effect which prevents drivers with excessively loud exhausts from receiving hefty tickets on-the-spot.

Can you get pulled over for loud exhaust California? ›

Does YOUR CAR Pass? California's Loud Exhaust Law Explained

Because of the strict vehicle laws in California, muffler deletes are not an option. Despite this, you can still get a heartier sound from your vehicle through specialty performance parts such as adjustable mufflers.

Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top four inches of the front windshield. Front side windows must allow over 70% of the light through. Rear window and back side windows can have any tint darkness. Mirrored or metallic tint on front and back side windows can't be any more reflective than a standard window.

Yes, your car will pass the emissions test. Your muffler does nothing to process emissions in your exhaust line. However, your car can still fail inspection since the removal of a muffler is illegal in all 50 states.

Sound is measured in decibels (dB). A whisper is about 30 dB, normal conversation is about 60 dB, and a motorcycle engine running is about 95 dB. Noise above 70 dB over a prolonged period of time may start to damage your hearing. Loud noise above 120 dB can cause immediate harm to your ears.

CARB-compliant aftermarket replacement converters are required for California Emissions Certified vehicles, model years 2001 and newer, operated in the state. EPA-compliant converters may be used on vehicles from model years 2000 and older, OR all Federal/EPA-only Emissions Certified vehicles, regardless of model year.

What about a cat back exhaust system? Since most high quality systems, at least those systems that are 50 state legal, are installed behind the catalytic converters, there should be no warranty concerns to other components, even emissions components.

Base fines for a modified exhaust are just $25 but tack on all the court fees and total fine amount is around $200. So, you can either pay the fine or go to court to contest the validity of the ticket.

An automated noise camera system comprising a video camera, an automatic number plate reader (ANPR) and sound measurement equipment, where sound levels from passing vehicles are tested against a suitable noise limit.

Any vehicle that has aftermarket or performance parts are deemed illegal unless that have a valid State Air Resources Board Executive Order that they can provide if stopped by police.

Is a Catback worth it? ›

Cat back exhaust systems are a great way to enhance the performance and look of your vehicle without having to take out a small loan. An average exhaust will start at around $300 and can go up to anywhere around $3000.

This cold air intake is great at adding a bit of horsepower and torque to your vehicle, and best of all, it is legal in the State of California.

Existing law requires every motor vehicle subject to registration to be equipped with an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise and prohibits a muffler or exhaust system from being equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device.

Here are a few ways that you can legally make your car louder in California: While you can't remove your muffler entirely, you can get a smaller muffler to make your car engine louder. You can also get a larger engine to produce more noise. This is a more expensive way to go, but it certainly works.

Is this Exhaust System legal in California? Expert Reply: Cat back systems like the MagnaFlow kit part # MF19198 are legal in California. The muffler doesn't affect anything emissions related so even the strict laws of California on emissions don't have a problem with them.

What about a cat back exhaust system? Since most high quality systems, at least those systems that are 50 state legal, are installed behind the catalytic converters, there should be no warranty concerns to other components, even emissions components.