Are After-Market Exhausts Legal in Australia?

When working on your vehicle, you may consider an after-market exhaust to be just the thing; you might even be wondering if fitting one is legal in Australia. The good news is that there are several varieties of after-market exhausts available and they can all be legally fitted to your vehicle in Australia - provided it has been approved by a qualified engineer or fitter.

In general, after-market exhausts are legal in Australia - but given the complexities of different state and territory laws, it is best to check with a qualified engineer or fitter before you go ahead with any modifications. With reliable auto exhaust suppliers, you'll have the best advice to make good decisions.

When seeking approval for an after-market exhaust installation, keep in mind that certain standards must be met. Your after-market exhaust must not exceed the noise levels set out in Schedule 4 of the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 2018. In some areas, this means that your vehicle won't be allowed to produce more than 95 decibels whilst running. Even if you have a vehicle that has been designed with higher decibel level limits, it's best to stick with a lower standard and ensure it meets the required standards.

Furthermore, to ensure your safety and the safety of other drivers, you should also take into account that after-market exhausts may increase the weight of your vehicle. This could affect the handling of your vehicle, so be sure to get a qualified engineer or fitter to check any changes made to evaluate their impact on your vehicle’s performance.

Overall, after-market exhausts can be a great way to give your car a unique look and sound, but you must take the necessary steps to ensure they are installed safely and legally. With reliable advice from qualified professionals, you should be able to find an after-market exhaust that meets both your needs and keeps you safe.

What is Illegal in Australia?

Even though after-market exhausts are generally legal in Australia, there are still certain restrictions that should be taken into account when purchasing one. Firstly, any vehicle fitted with an after-market exhaust must not have modifications to the emissions system - this includes removing or tampering with catalytic converters and mufflers.

Elsewhere, it's illegal to install any device that can alter the exhaust note of a vehicle, such as a ‘cut-out’ or other similar devices. Additionally, you must not make any modifications that may raise the noise levels beyond legal limits.

Furthermore, any exhausts fitted to registered vehicles must carry an Australian Design Rules (ADR) approval number. This will show that the exhaust has been tested and meets the standards set out by Australian law. Be sure to check this number before purchasing an exhaust so that you can be sure it meets the relevant standards.

All in all, after-market exhausts may be a brilliant choice for your vehicle - as long as they meet all the necessary legal requirements in Australia. With reliable advice from a qualified engineer or fitter, you can make sure your after-market exhaust is fitted safely and legally. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance!