Is Adding a Tailpipe Fined?
3 Answers
Adding a tailpipe is subject to fines. Below are the precautions for car modifications: 1. It is illegal: Privately installing a tailpipe on a vehicle is considered illegal modification, which is an unlawful act. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, traffic authorities will order the vehicle owner to remove the installed tailpipe. Adding a tailpipe poses potential dangers to the safety of vehicle operation. 2. High risk: Since it is an aftermarket modification part for a regular tailpipe, installation requires fixing with bolts. During vehicle use, due to vibrations from the vehicle and the exhaust pipe, the installed tailpipe may loosen over time, and in severe cases, it may detach, posing a potential hazard to vehicles behind.
Regarding the issue of fines for installing exhaust tips, it really depends on local regulations and the modification method. In China, many cities strictly control vehicle noise and emissions. If the exhaust tips you install increase the exhaust noise beyond the legal limit, your vehicle will definitely fail the annual inspection, and the police can issue a fine on the spot if they detect excessive noise during routine patrols. The fine amount varies by location, typically ranging from 100 to 500 RMB, and in severe cases, penalty points may be deducted. Modifying the exhaust system isn’t just about looking cool—the core requirement is compliance with environmental standards, such as using factory-certified exhaust tips. If the excessive noise disturbs the neighborhood, community complaints could also lead to fines. So, if you’re serious about modifications, first check local laws and vehicle standards to avoid unnecessary expenses.
I previously replaced my car's exhaust tip with a flashy one, thinking it would give a more aggressive sound. However, just a few days after driving it, I got pulled over by traffic police who said the decibel level was too high and violated traffic regulations. I was fined 300 RMB on the spot, and the cost of removal and reinstallation was also wasted—definitely not worth the hassle. Modifications like this shouldn’t be done recklessly; safety and legality must be considered. Minor changes to the exhaust tip might be fine, but drastic alterations can easily disrupt exhaust balance and even cause malfunctions. Later, I asked a friend who owns a tuning shop, and he suggested choosing certified, compliant products and adding a silencer for better results. This firsthand experience serves as a reminder: the risk of fines is real, so it’s best to be cautious.
