Why are exhaust system repairs regulated?
Engines and the associated emission systems are generally affected by the exhaust back pressure. Therefore, the back pressure and the exhaust system configuration (including the location of the catalytic converter and exhaust pipe diameter and length) are “elements of the design” of a vehicle’s emission control system and cannot legally be tampered with. Examples of illegal modifications include: * Installing a dual exhaust system on a vehicle not originally certified with a dual exhaust, or installing a “fake” dual exhaust after the catalytic converter and after the exhaust system has been joined together to a single pipe * Changing the pipe configuration (such as a side pipe, stack, or short pipe on a pickup) * Removing a catalytic converter and installing a converter replacement pipe * Installing glasspacks or small turbo mufflers instead of direct-fit or cataloged replacement universal mufflers What are the implications of motor vehicle tampering? Civil Penalties A manufacturer or
